Papers
7
Total Citations
47
H-Index
3
About
Kanae Kochigami is a pioneering researcher in human-robot interaction, specializing in socially assistive robots that enhance human connection and well-being. Her work uniquely focuses on using robots to address Japan’s growing challenge of social isolation—particularly among children and those who eat alone. Kochigami’s most cited paper (23 citations) introduces a mixed reality co-eating system where a robot’s shared eating behavior improves the solitary dining experience, blending technology with the fundamental human act of sharing a meal. She has also made significant contributions to child-robot interaction, developing autonomous systems that walk hand-in-hand with children—recognizing that walking together is a social act that supports mental development. Her research extends to robot-mediated communication, including robots that introduce people in groups to spark conversation, and an “open diary” robot that deepens friendships by sharing daily memories with a child’s family and community. With over 47 citations across her key works, Kochigami’s impact lies in designing robots not as tools, but as social catalysts—creating technology that actively fosters empathy, companionship, and richer human relationships in everyday life.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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- 4Social Acceptance of Interactive Robots in Japan3 citations · 2018
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- 6Effect of Walking with a Robot on Child-Child Interactions3 citations · 2018
- 7A Robot Dynamically Asking Questions in University Classes1 citations · 2025