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About

Mikiya Kusunoki is pioneering the intersection of origami engineering and human-computer interaction, creating soft, foldable robotic systems that are as functional as they are accessible. His research focuses on origami-inspired mechanisms, supernumerary robotic limbs, and autonomous vehicle communication, with a strong emphasis on user experience and rapid fabrication. Kusunoki’s major contributions include the development of scalable, foldable supernumerary robotic limbs that assist with daily tasks, leveraging continuous robotic mechanisms to enhance wearability and ease of use. His work on origami twisted towers has also streamlined the integration of soft mechanisms through rapid fabrication processes, reducing manual assembly time. With over 19 citations across his most-cited papers, Kusunoki’s impact is growing, particularly through his 2023 UX study on origami-inspired foldable robotics, which highlights their potential to democratize wearable computing. Additionally, his 2024 study on shrinkable arm-based eHMI for autonomous delivery vehicles addresses critical communication challenges between robots and other road users, showcasing his commitment to practical, user-centered design. Kusunoki’s innovative blend of soft robotics and HCI is shaping the future of assistive and autonomous technologies.