Masaki Higashino

The University of Tokyo, The Institute of Energy Economics, Japan

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Masaki Higashino is a robotics researcher whose work focuses on enhancing the mobility and autonomy of wheeled robots in challenging environments. His primary research areas include mobile robotics, locomotion control, and terrain adaptability, with a particular emphasis on step-climbing capabilities. Higashino’s major contributions center on developing innovative control strategies that allow wheeled robots to surmount obstacles higher than their own wheel radius—a feat previously considered unattainable with conventional methods. His 2014 paper, which introduces a slip ratio control method that accounts for workload shifts via anti-dive suspension forces and acceleration, has garnered 4 citations. This work addresses critical limitations in traditional approaches, such as the need for excessive velocity and impact force, thereby reducing mechanical stress and improving robot reliability. His earlier 2013 paper, with 2 citations, laid the groundwork by proposing a slip ratio control technique that leverages the moment of impact to generate sufficient driving force for step climbing. Together, these studies represent a significant step forward in off-road and urban mobility for wheeled robots, offering practical solutions for applications in search-and-rescue, inspection, and autonomous navigation. Higashino’s research is notable for its direct engineering impact, providing a foundation for more resilient and capable robotic systems.