Masaya Iba

Tokyo University of Science, The University of Tokyo

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Masaya Iba is a robotics researcher whose work centers on assistive wearable technology, with a particular focus on developing innovative solutions for individuals with paralysis or severely limited mobility. His most recognized contributions involve the design and engineering of the "muscle suit," a lightweight, frameless wearable robot intended to provide muscular support and restore functional upper limb motion to those who cannot move unaided in daily life. A defining feature of Iba's engineering approach is the use of McKibben artificial muscles, which eliminate the need for rigid metal frames and make the suit practical for everyday wear. His research also introduced a novel shoulder joint link mechanism — comprising two half-circle links with four universal joints — enabling more naturalistic and biomechanically sound arm movement. Alongside hardware development, Iba proposed and refined posture control methods to ensure accurate, responsive limb positioning during use. Published in 2006, his three most-cited works collectively demonstrate a systematic progression from concept to refined implementation, accumulating 27 citations and establishing a foundational framework in upper-limb assistive robotics. His research remains a meaningful reference point for scholars developing rehabilitation and disability-support technologies.