Maiko Kimura

Hiroshima University, Mazda Motor Corporation (Japan)

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Maiko Kimura is a roboticist whose work centers on the dynamic manipulation and grasping of moving objects—a critical challenge in autonomous robotics. Her research focuses on developing strategies for robotic hands to capture objects in motion, particularly those with both translational and rotational velocities. Kimura’s major contribution lies in proposing friction-independent dynamic capturing strategies, where a 2D stick-shaped object is completely stopped by two robotic fingers. Her most-cited paper, “Dynamic Capturing Strategy for a 2-D Stick-Shaped Object Based on Friction Independent Collision” (2007, 16 citations), introduces a method to determine fingertip positions and object orientations that generate a desired velocity profile, effectively decoupling the capture process from surface friction. This work, alongside her earlier exploration of preshaping for rotational object capture (2004, 3 citations), has laid foundational principles for high-speed, reliable robotic grasping in unstructured environments. Kimura’s research bridges theoretical kinematics and practical manipulation, offering insights that are valuable for students and engineers developing dexterous robotic hands for assembly, sorting, or even space applications. Her achievements demonstrate a focused, systematic approach to solving one of robotics’ most intricate problems: catching what moves.