Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Dr. Noriko Tsuruoka is a pioneering roboticist whose research focuses on developing micro-scale medical tools that navigate the human body with unprecedented precision. Her primary contributions lie in the design and control of shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators for minimally invasive surgical devices, including catheters, guide wires, and endoscopes. Her most cited work (12 citations) establishes the foundational principles for these SMA-driven mechanisms, enabling safer and more flexible interventions. Dr. Tsuruoka has also introduced an innovative air-driven spiral scaffold system for collaborative mini-robots in intestinal surgery, addressing critical challenges in endoscopic submucosal dissection. Additionally, her tube-shaped multidirectional bending device for transurethral ureterolithotripsy demonstrates the versatility of slackened SMA wires in navigating complex anatomical pathways. With a growing citation impact, Dr. Tsuruoka’s work is shaping the future of micro-robotic surgery, offering transformative solutions for procedures that demand extreme miniaturization and dexterity. Her achievements highlight a career dedicated to bridging robotics and medicine, making her a leading voice in the field of surgical micro-robotics.