Papers
20
Total Citations
253
H-Index
9
About
Tomoaki Mashimo is a pioneering robotics researcher whose work spans soft robotics, miniaturized actuators, and novel locomotion systems. His research is distinguished by a commitment to bridging biological inspiration with precision engineering, drawing on the elegant mechanics of soft-bodied organisms to inform the design of adaptable, real-world robotic systems. Mashimo has made landmark contributions to ultrasonic motor technology, developing spherical and micro-scale variants that enable sophisticated motion in remarkably compact platforms — including a millimeter-scale rolling microrobot and a submillimeter ultrasonic motor that push the boundaries of miniaturization. His tri-tube soft actuator work (62 citations) has advanced climbing robotics by harnessing large structural deformations for versatile locomotion in complex environments, while his caterpillar-inspired climbing robot demonstrates his facility with bio-mimetic design at the insect scale. Beyond locomotion, Mashimo has addressed practical challenges in agriculture through a suspended pollination robot and explored the mechanical advantages of singular robot configurations for heavy-load manipulation. His continuum robot research further reflects his interest in blending rigid and compliant mechanisms. With over 200 cumulative citations across diverse platforms — from pipe inspection to omnidirectional wheeled robots — Mashimo's portfolio reflects a consistently inventive and impactful approach to embodied robotic intelligence.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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- 4Caterpillar-Inspired Insect-Scale Climbing Robot Using Dry Adhesives14 citations · 2022
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- 6Fabrication and characterization of a submillimeter-scale ultrasonic motor12 citations · 2023
- 7A Palm-Sized Omnidirectional Mobile Robot Driven by 2-DOF Torus Wheels11 citations · 2022
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- 9Efficient pulling motion of a two-link robot arm near singular configuration11 citations · 2010
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