Kazuhiro Sugitani
Papers
1
Total Citations
89
H-Index
1
About
Kazuhiro Sugitani is a leading figure in soft robotics and smart materials, with a particular focus on developing novel actuators that bridge the gap between rigid machines and biological systems. His most cited work, "Pneumatic artificial rubber muscle using shape-memory polymer sheet with embedded electrical heating wire" (2014, 89 citations), represents a landmark contribution to the field. In this study, Sugitani ingeniously integrated shape-memory polymer (SMP) sheets with embedded heating wires into a pneumatic artificial muscle, exploiting the SMP's reversible modulus change across its glass transition temperature to create a lightweight, controllable actuator. This innovation allows the muscle to be deformed under a small load when heated above Tg, then lock its shape upon cooling, and return to a predefined form when reheated—a mechanism that dramatically enhances the versatility and energy efficiency of soft robotic systems. Sugitani’s work has been instrumental in advancing the practical application of SMPs in robotics, offering a path toward more adaptive and resilient machines. His research continues to inspire new approaches in wearable assistive devices and bio-inspired robotics, making him a pivotal contributor to the next generation of intelligent, shape-changing materials.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1