Yasuaki Kakehi
The University of Tokyo, Tokyo University of Information Sciences
Papers
9
Total Citations
220
H-Index
5
About
Yasuaki Kakehi is a leading researcher in human-computer interaction and soft robotics, specializing in shape-changing interfaces, soft actuators, and tangible user interfaces. His most impactful contribution is the development of **Liquid Pouch Motors** (75 citations), a family of printable, planar soft actuators driven by liquid-to-gas phase change that eliminate the need for bulky tubes and pumps, enabling thin, lightweight, and flexible shape-changing interfaces. He also pioneered **MorphIO** (45 citations), entirely soft sensing and actuation modules for programming soft robots by demonstration, and **Sketched Reality** (44 citations), a system that combines augmented reality sketching with actuated tangible interfaces for bi-directional interaction between virtual and physical worlds. Kakehi has developed innovative prototyping tools like **HydroMod** (26 citations) for hydraulic interfaces and **foamin** (18 citations), a deformable single-wire sensor for multimodal gesture detection. His work extends to educational applications, including workshops using inflatable soft robots, and artistic installations such as *Plantae Agrestis*, which explores cybernetic plants. With over 220 total citations, Kakehi’s research bridges engineering and design, making soft robotics accessible for creative and practical applications in HCI.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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- 2MorphIO45 citations · 2019
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