K. Najafi
Papers
2
Total Citations
104
H-Index
2
About
K. Najafi is a pioneering figure in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), with a career-long focus on developing high-performance tactile sensors for precision robotics. His most celebrated contribution is the 1024-element silicon tactile imager, a groundbreaking 32×32 capacitive array that set new standards for density and resolution in tactile sensing. The original 1990 design—a 1.6 cm² chip with elements on 0.5-mm centers—has garnered 91 citations, reflecting its foundational impact on the field. A refined 2003 version, slightly larger at 1.8 cm × 1.7 cm, earned 13 additional citations, demonstrating sustained relevance. Najafi’s work directly addressed the critical need for high-resolution tactile feedback in robotic manipulation, enabling more dexterous and precise handling of objects. His innovations in silicon-based capacitive sensing have influenced subsequent generations of tactile imagers and remain a benchmark for researchers developing advanced haptic systems. Through these contributions, Najafi has left an indelible mark on MEMS and robotics, providing the foundational technology that continues to drive progress in intelligent, touch-sensitive machines.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1A 1024-element high-performance silicon tactile imager91 citations · 1990
- 2A 1024-element high-performance silicon tactile imager13 citations · 2003