Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Seita Nojiri is a leading researcher in soft robotics, specializing in pneumatic actuation and variable-friction mechanisms for dexterous manipulation. His work centers on developing novel, compliant robotic hands and surfaces that can dynamically control grip and sliding—a critical challenge for robots handling delicate or irregular objects. Nojiri’s most cited paper (2022, 18 citations) introduces a soft robotic hand with a finger-bending and friction-reduction switching mechanism, controlled by a single degree-of-freedom airflow. This innovation allows the hand to both grasp securely and release objects with precision, mimicking human dexterity. His earlier work (2019, 13 citations) developed a contact-area-variable surface that enables robots to manage sliding during manipulation, overcoming the high friction typical of soft grippers. More recently (2023, 6 citations), he created a slim, flexible device that switches between air blowing and suction using a single airflow, expanding the toolkit for soft robotic interfaces. Nojiri’s contributions have been recognized in top robotics venues, and his designs—integrating sensing, control, and novel structures—are paving the way for more adaptive, safe, and efficient robotic hands in manufacturing, healthcare, and service applications.