Masanori Maehara
Papers
5
Total Citations
20
H-Index
3
About
Masanori Maehara is a robotics researcher specializing in soft actuator systems, human-safe manipulators, and human-robot interaction, with a particular focus on pneumatic artificial muscle (PAM) technology. His work addresses one of the most pressing challenges in modern robotics: developing systems that can operate safely and effectively alongside humans in sensitive environments such as nursing care and domestic assistance. Maehara's most significant contributions include the design and development of multi-degree-of-freedom robotic manipulators driven by straight-fiber-type pneumatic artificial muscles, culminating in a sophisticated 7-DOF arm and a 2-DOF wrist joint system capable of human-like movement with inherent compliance and safety. His most-cited work (2013, 8 citations) demonstrated a novel wrist joint design that balances softness, lightness, and power — qualities essential for human-proximate robots. Beyond mechanical design, Maehara has pioneered methods for estimating joint stiffness using electromyography (EMG) signals, enabling more intuitive master-slave robotic control systems that translate human muscular intent into robot motion. This interdisciplinary approach, bridging biomechanics and robotics engineering, positions his research at the forefront of collaborative and assistive robot development, offering meaningful pathways toward safer human-robot coexistence.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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