T. Yodaiken

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

T. Yodaiken’s research centers on affordable, rugged robotics for humanitarian applications, with a primary focus on landmine detection. His most-cited work, “Low-cost outdoor mobile robot: a platform for landmine detection” (2003, 7 citations), tackles the critical challenge of developing a practical, low-cost robotic system for hazardous environments. Yodaiken’s major contribution lies in designing a simple four-wheel-drive skid-steer chassis integrated with a multi-sensor navigation system, proximity sensors, and onboard computers—all optimized for affordability and durability. This platform demonstrates that effective field robotics need not be prohibitively expensive, making life-saving detection technology more accessible. While his citation count is modest, the work’s impact is significant in the niche of humanitarian demining, where cost constraints are paramount. Yodaiken’s approach has influenced subsequent low-cost robotic designs for outdoor and disaster-response scenarios, showcasing how engineering pragmatism can address real-world safety challenges. His research exemplifies the power of simplicity and accessibility in robotics, offering a compelling model for students and researchers interested in socially impactful, budget-conscious engineering solutions.