Masaaki Hijikata

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Dr. Masaaki Hijikata is a leading researcher in the field of mobile robotics, with a core focus on the design and optimization of omnidirectional wheeled platforms for industrial and service applications. His major contributions center on solving the critical challenge of creating compact, stable, and safe mobile robots. Dr. Hijikata pioneered the use of **velocity moments** as a novel evaluation method for omni wheel arrangements, moving beyond conventional point-symmetric designs to enable more flexible, asymmetric configurations that prevent tipping. His most cited work, "Wheel Arrangement of Four Omni Wheel Mobile Robot for Compactness" (37 citations), directly addresses the industry need for low-vibration, space-efficient robots to automate material transport within plants. Further demonstrating his holistic approach, Dr. Hijikata has also explored the human-robot interface, developing flexible cowl-covered robots that prioritize both safety and aesthetic design to reduce public fear in shared spaces. Through his innovative wheel arrangement theories and human-centered design principles, Dr. Hijikata is shaping the next generation of practical, non-intimidating mobile robots for real-world environments.