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About

Yosuke Kurihara is a pioneering researcher in haptic feedback and human-robot interaction, best known for his groundbreaking work on the virtual robotization of the human body. His primary research areas include data-driven vibrotactile feedback, haptic perception, and mobile robot navigation. Kurihara's most significant contribution is the development of techniques that use vibrotactile feedback to create the illusion of altering one's body material—making users feel as though they have robotic or metallic limbs. His seminal paper, "Virtual Robotization of the Human Body via Data-Driven Vibrotactile Feedback" (2013), has garnered 16 citations and laid the foundation for this novel field. In "Jointonation" (2013, 11 citations), he explored how movies and comics inspire the fantasy of becoming a robot, and proposed methods to simulate that somatic experience. His work on "Haptic robotization of the human body" (2014, 7 citations) and "Virtual alteration of body material" (2013, 5 citations) further refined these techniques. Earlier in his career, Kurihara contributed to mobile robotics, developing path planning algorithms using omnidirectional images and laser scanners, as well as elevator navigation for JAUS-compliant robots. His research bridges the gap between fantasy and reality, offering profound insights into how technology can transform human perception and embodiment.