Shinshu University

About

Shinshu University has established itself as a remarkably diverse and impactful research institution, spanning soft robotics, smart materials, surgical robotics, human-robot interaction, and autonomous manipulation. Located in Japan's Nagano Prefecture, Shinshu's engineering and robotics programs have cultivated a distinctive identity through interdisciplinary innovation that bridges materials science, medical robotics, and intelligent systems. At the forefront of Shinshu's contributions is pioneering work in soft actuators and functional materials. Researchers have developed highly cited technologies including carbon nanotube-based electromechanical actuators, PVC gel artificial muscles for wearable assistive devices, and stretchable self-healable hydrogel-based triboelectric nanogenerators — work that has collectively attracted hundreds of citations and is shaping the next generation of soft robotic systems and wearable electronics. These innovations speak directly to urgent challenges in human augmentation and sustainable energy harvesting. Shinshu has also made transformative contributions to surgical robotics, most notably through the NeuRobot telemanipulation system and the iArmS intelligent arm support system, which has been clinically deployed in neurosurgical procedures. This translational commitment — moving from laboratory concept to operating theatre — distinguishes Shinshu as a leader in medical robotics with real-world clinical impact. Further distinguishing the institution is its work in human-robot interaction, including research on robotic handshaking, artificial subtle expressions, and robot-mediated dressing assistance, reflecting a commitment to socially aware and physically assistive robotics. Complementing this is strong research in robotic manipulation, including cloth unfolding and continuum robots for search and rescue. Prospective students and collaborators will find in Shinshu a uniquely integrated research environment where advanced materials science, clinical medicine, and intelligent robotics converge to address some of the most compelling challenges facing humanity.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   Stretchable, Adhesive, Self-Healable, and Conductive Hydrogel-Based Deformable Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Energy Harvesting and Human Motion Sensing

   176 citations · 2022
2. 2
   Superfast-Response and Ultrahigh-Power-Density Electromechanical Actuators Based on Hierarchal Carbon Nanotube Electrodes and Chitosan

   159 citations · 2011
3. 3
   How Does the Difference Between Users’ Expectations and Perceptions About a Robotic Agent Affect Their Behavior?

   104 citations · 2011
4. 4
   PVC gel based artificial muscles: Characterizations and actuation modular constructions

   76 citations · 2015
5. 5
   PVC gel soft actuator-based wearable assist wear for hip joint support during walking

   73 citations · 2017
6. 6
   Clinical application of robotic telemanipulation system in neurosurgery

   67 citations · 2003
7. 7
   EMD Net: An Encode–Manipulate–Decode Network for Cloth Manipulation

   65 citations · 2018
8. 8
   Survey of robotic manipulation studies intending practical applications in real environments -object recognition, soft robot hand, and challenge program and benchmarking-

   62 citations · 2017
9. 9
   AgNPs/CNTs modified nonwoven fabric for PET-based flexible interdigitated electrodes in pressure sensor applications

   61 citations · 2024
10. 10
    Human-Robot Handshaking using Neural Oscillators

    57 citations · 2006

Faculty & Researchers

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