Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Kikuo Fujita is a leading researcher in product architecture and modular design, with a focus on complex mechatronic systems such as industrial robots. His work centers on optimizing product platforms and design processes to meet diverse customer needs while managing engineering complexity. Fujita’s major contributions include developing a multi-domain Design Structure Matrix (DSM) method for managing collaborative design across mechanical, software, and control engineering domains, and proposing a fundamental framework for the optimal design of product platforms for three-axis linear-type robots. His case study on extended product architecture design for industrial robots, which has garnered 9 citations, demonstrates how modularization can be tailored to end-use environments. Additionally, his work on integrating model-based development with prototyping has advanced knowledge-based product design frameworks. With over 25 citations across his most-cited papers, Fujita’s research provides practical methodologies for improving efficiency and customization in engineering design. His notable achievements include pioneering the use of triple design structure matrices to link customer needs, physical functions, and entity structures, offering a holistic approach to modularization that balances customer satisfaction with engineering effort.