Takushi Sugino

National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology

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Total Citations

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About

Dr. Takushi Sugino is a leading figure in the development of soft, bio-inspired actuators, with a primary focus on ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) and bucky-gel actuators. His research bridges materials science and biomedical engineering, aiming to create flexible, low-voltage devices for delicate applications. A key contribution is his work on an elliptical-like cross-section IPMC actuator, designed specifically for use in catheter surgery, demonstrating how actuator geometry can be optimized for minimally invasive medical tools. This paper has garnered 15 citations, reflecting its significance in the field. Dr. Sugino has also contributed to the broader understanding of these materials, authoring a comprehensive chapter on the principle, fabrication, and applications of ionic polymer actuators, which has been cited 10 times. His work extends to the fundamental mechanics of bucky-gel actuators, where he developed methods to measure blocking force to interpret the underlying ionic mechanisms. With a career dedicated to advancing soft robotics and biomedical micro-devices, Dr. Sugino’s research is paving the way for safer, more adaptable surgical tools and robotic systems that can interact gently with human tissue.