Stephen Thoemmes
Papers
1
Total Citations
2
H-Index
1
About
Stephen Thoemmes is a researcher at the intersection of human-robot interaction (HRI), assistive technology, and virtual reality, with a focus on building trust between users and autonomous systems. His most cited work, "Exploring Interaction Design Considerations for Trustworthy Language-Capable Robotic Wheelchairs in Virtual Reality" (2020), addresses a critical challenge in HRI: how transparent, natural language communication can foster user trust in mobility robots. By simulating language-capable robotic wheelchairs in VR, Thoemmes demonstrated that effective dialogue design is essential for user reliance and safety—particularly for individuals with physical disabilities who depend on these systems for movement. Though his citation count is still growing, his contributions are foundational to emerging research on trustworthy, user-centered design for assistive robots. Thoemmes’ work bridges engineering, psychology, and ethics, offering practical guidelines for developing robotic wheelchairs that communicate clearly and earn user confidence. His research is especially relevant as autonomous mobility aids become more common, highlighting the importance of interaction design in ensuring both functionality and emotional reassurance.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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