Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Yuriko Yasuda is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of robotics, human-robot interaction, and developmental psychology, best known for her groundbreaking work in using robotic platforms for autism therapy. Her key research areas include social robotics, assistive technology for developmental disorders, and non-verbal communication in human-robot interaction. Yasuda's most significant contribution is the design and deployment of Keepon, a small, simple, creature-like robot (resembling a yellow snowman) that she developed specifically to engage children with autism spectrum disorder. Her landmark 2006 paper, "Interactive robots for communication-care," has garnered over 314 citations, establishing Keepon as a foundational tool in therapeutic robotics. Through longitudinal studies at daycare centers, Yasuda demonstrated that minimally-designed robots could effectively facilitate social interaction and communication in children who typically struggle with interpersonal engagement. Her work has profoundly influenced how researchers approach robot-mediated therapy, showing that simplicity in design can unlock complex social behaviors. Yasuda's research continues to shape the development of assistive robotic technologies for vulnerable populations.