Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

David Western is a leading researcher in the verification and validation (V&V) of robotic systems, with a particular focus on safety-critical human-robot interaction. His major contribution is the development of **Coverage-Driven Verification (CDV)** , a novel methodology that uses simulation-based testing to systematically explore a robot’s behaviour across a broad range of realistic scenarios. This approach addresses the fundamental challenge of assuring safety and functional correctness in complex, unpredictable environments—such as flexible manufacturing and home care—where robots must operate alongside humans. Western’s work on CDV has been foundational, with his most-cited paper (20 citations) and subsequent works (14 and 12 citations) establishing the framework for rigorous, model-based V&V. His research has directly influenced how engineers test collaborative robots before deployment. More recently, he has extended his expertise to healthcare, authoring a systematic review on change management for robotic technology adoption (2025), demonstrating the translation of his technical V&V insights into real-world implementation strategies. Western’s contributions are essential for anyone working on safe, verifiable autonomous systems.