Hiroko Kobori

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Hiroko Kobori is a researcher in robotics and automation, with a focus on developing intelligent systems for domestic tasks. Her key research areas include robotic manipulation, particularly in the context of laundry handling, and the integration of sensor-based recognition with motion planning. Kobori's major contribution lies in her work on clothes unfolding, a critical step in automating the sorting and folding of laundry. In her most-cited paper, "2A2-B16 Clothes Unfolding by Binding Recognition Motion Primitives and Using Color Range Sensor" (2010), she introduced the concept of "motion primitives" and "clothes basic information" to enable robots to recognize and manipulate fabric. By pairing these motion units—termed "handling skills"—with color range sensors, she advanced the feasibility of robots performing complex, deformable-object tasks. While her citation count (4) reflects a specialized audience, her work has implications for service robotics and home automation. Kobori's research bridges perception and action, offering foundational insights for future systems that assist with everyday chores, making her a notable contributor to the field of robotic laundry handling.