Shiro Itai
Papers
2
Total Citations
6
H-Index
2
About
Shiro Itai is a pioneering researcher in embodied communication and human-robot interaction, with a distinctive focus on the Japanese cultural concept of *Maai*—the perceptive spatial distance essential for establishing communicative atmosphere. His most-cited works, including "Creation and co-share of 'Maai' by the interface employing the embodiment" (2005, 3 citations) and "Co-existing communication using a robot as your agent" (2005, 3 citations), explore how rhythmic embodiment and 1/f fluctuation can integrate individual "Ba" (shared spaces) to create optimal interpersonal distance. Using a Kendo (Japanese fencing) match system with a video character robot, Itai demonstrated how physical presence and timing can foster co-existing communication. His research uniquely bridges traditional Japanese aesthetics with cutting-edge robotics, offering a novel framework for designing interfaces that feel naturally attuned to human social dynamics. Though his citation counts are modest, Itai's work stands out for its cultural depth and interdisciplinary ambition, inspiring further inquiry into how embodiment and spatial awareness shape human-machine relationships.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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- 2