Willa Yunqi Yang
Papers
3
Total Citations
33
H-Index
3
About
Willa Yunqi Yang is a rising leader in human-computer interaction, pioneering the intersection of actuated tangible user interfaces and robotic metamaterials. Her research centers on creating dynamic, shape-changing systems that enable novel spatial and kinesthetic interactions. Yang’s most impactful work, “ThrowIO” (2023, 17 citations), introduces a groundbreaking actuated tangible user interface that facilitates “throwing and catching” spatial interaction using mobile wheeled robots on overhanging surfaces—a paradigm that transforms passive spaces into interactive arenas. She further advances the field with “Robotic Metamaterials” (2024, 8 citations), a modular system that allows users to configure ad-hoc dynamic applications by augmenting passive structures with active units, democratizing access to shape-changing technology. In “TorqueCapsules” (2024, 8 citations), Yang addresses the safety and implementation challenges of flywheel actuation, presenting fully-encapsulated modules for prototyping movement-based and kinesthetic interaction. Her work consistently bridges the gap between complex robotic actuation and intuitive human interaction, earning recognition for its creativity and practical impact. With a growing citation footprint and a portfolio that redefines how we interact with physical computing, Yang is shaping the future of interactive systems.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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