Rayna Hata

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Rayna Hata is a rising researcher at the intersection of human-robot interaction and assistive technology, with a focus on making robotic systems accessible and responsive to human needs. Her work centers on two key areas: developing navigation assistants for individuals with blindness or low vision (BLV) and designing adaptive robot coaches for human performance. In her highly cited 2024 study, "Co-designing an Accessible Quadruped Navigation Assistant," Hata explored the potential of industrial quadruped robots—such as the Boston Dynamics Spot—as alternatives to guide dogs, demonstrating how these platforms can offer mobility support in scenarios where trained animals are unavailable. Her follow-up work, "See Spot Guide," further refined accessible interfaces for BLV users, emphasizing co-design with the community. In parallel, Hata's 2025 paper on robot exercise coaching introduced a novel framework for adapting feedback styles—firm versus encouraging—based on user state, with implications for personalized health robotics. Though early in her career, with papers accumulating citations rapidly, Hata’s contributions are already shaping how robots can serve as empathetic, adaptive partners in daily life. Her work stands out for its commitment to user-centered design and its potential to bridge gaps in accessibility and wellness.