Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Kohei Hori’s research career has been defined by a relentless pursuit of miniaturization and precision in robotic actuation, with a particular focus on developing novel drive systems for specialized applications. His most influential contribution is the direct-drive pneumatic stepping motor, a groundbreaking design that delivers four to twenty times the torque of conventional electric motors of the same size while maintaining high stepping resolution and a remarkably simple, lightweight structure. This innovation, detailed in his 2002 paper (43 citations), has proven especially valuable for pipe-inspection microrobots and human-care robots, where compact power is essential. Hori’s expertise extends to mechanical paradox planetary gears, where he analyzed their maximum efficiencies for high-reduction, high-reliability applications like space manipulators. He also demonstrated his commitment to practical miniaturization through the development of micro SCARA robots for miniature parts assembly, integrating ultra-small servo actuators with brushless DC motors and optical encoders. Through these achievements, Hori has advanced the frontier of robot design, enabling smaller, more capable machines for inspection, care, and precision manufacturing.