Kazuto TAKASHIMA
RIKEN Advanced Science Institute, Kyushu Institute of Technology, RIKEN
Papers
11
Total Citations
243
H-Index
6
About
Kazuto Takashima is a leading researcher in soft robotics and smart materials, with a particular focus on shape-memory polymers (SMPs) and their application in artificial muscles and variable-stiffness systems. His pioneering work includes the development of McKibben-type artificial muscles using SMP sheets, which can change their bending direction and stiffness in response to temperature—a breakthrough for adaptable, safe robotic actuators. His most cited paper, “McKibben artificial muscle using shape-memory polymer” (2010), has garnered 94 citations, while his subsequent work on pneumatic artificial rubber muscles with embedded heating wires (2014, 89 citations) further advanced the field. Takashima has also explored hybrid materials combining SMPs with shape-memory alloys, and introduced variable-stiffness links using jamming transitions, enabling robots to switch between rigid and compliant states. His research extends to medical robotics, including a scrub nurse robot for laparoscopic surgery, and sensor systems for force measurement. With over 200 total citations, Takashima’s contributions are foundational to creating safer, more versatile robots for healthcare and human-robot interaction.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1McKibben artificial muscle using shape-memory polymer94 citations · 2010
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- 8Scrub Nurse Robot for Laparoscopic Surgery6 citations · 2008
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- 10Fatigue life prediction of electroactive polymer strain sensor3 citations · 2021