Michihiko Shoji

Yokohama National University, Tohoku University

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Michihiko Shoji has pioneered the intersection of assistive robotics and bipedal locomotion, focusing on cooperative human-robot systems and adaptive mechanisms for irregular environments. His most influential work centers on developing strategies for wheeled robots and wheelchairs to collaboratively overcome architectural barriers like steps—a critical challenge for mobility assistance. In his 2008 paper (16 citations), Shoji introduced a cooperative method where both the wheelchair user and the robot actively assist each other to climb and descend steps, demonstrating feasibility through a simple link mechanism. This work was further refined in a companion study (11 citations) that used numerical calculations to optimize supporting positions for step climbing. Earlier, Shoji contributed to bipedal robotics with a 2001 study (6 citations) proposing a three-point support foot mechanism and oblique roll axis for stable standing on uneven terrain—key innovations for self-supporting robots. He also developed IRIS (Interactive, Robust and Intelligent Patient Care System), an intelligent service robot integrating speaker direction identification, dialog systems, and face recognition for hospital sickrooms. Though his citation counts are modest, Shoji’s work represents foundational steps in cooperative assistive robotics, blending mechanical design with human-centered interaction to enhance mobility and care.