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About

Masanori Idesawa is a pioneering researcher in robotics and optical sensing, best known for his foundational work in developing novel range sensors for three-dimensional object perception. His key research areas include robotic vision, optical range sensing, and semiconductor position-sensitive devices. Idesawa made major contributions by proposing an innovative robotic range sensor that projects an axially symmetrical bright ring pattern to acquire depth information—a concept that garnered 10 citations and laid groundwork for non-contact 3D measurement. He also led the development of the Riken Hybrid Type Position Sensitive Device (R-HPSD), an analog-digital hybrid semiconductor sensor that dramatically improved image position sensing resolution by tens of times, even with standard electronics. This work, cited 3 times, demonstrated his ability to bridge theoretical design with practical hardware. His 1987 paper on the Robotics Society of Japan’s annual conference remains his most cited work (12 citations), reflecting his early influence in the field. Idesawa’s circular range sensing method for 3D feature extraction further advanced robotic perception, enabling more precise object recognition. His achievements underscore a career dedicated to enhancing machine vision, making him a notable figure in the evolution of robotic sensing technologies.