Toru Tanaka
Papers
1
Total Citations
4
H-Index
1
About
Toru Tanaka’s research lies at the intersection of human-robot interaction and service robotics, with a focus on understanding how human-shaped robots can be effectively deployed in real-world environments. His most cited work, “Consideration and Evaluation of benefits of human shaped service robots [The report of experimental introduction to a shopping center]” (2013), explores the practical challenges of integrating anthropomorphic robots into commercial spaces. By conducting an experimental introduction of such robots in a Japanese shopping center, Tanaka identified key barriers to their adoption—namely, the lack of clear objectives for their use, which undermines perceived usefulness and necessity. This study provides foundational insights into the design and evaluation of service robots, emphasizing the need for demonstrable benefits in everyday contexts. While his citation count (4) reflects a niche but emerging field, Tanaka’s work contributes to bridging the gap between robotic prototypes and commercial viability, offering valuable lessons for researchers and practitioners aiming to make humanoid robots more than novelties. His research underscores the importance of user-centered design in robotics, making him a thoughtful voice in the ongoing dialogue about technology’s role in society.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1