More so than other senses, the human tactile sense works in mysterious ways. We can feel the texture and weight of an object just by touching it; with touch, we can deftly and gently handle or even modify the shape of an object. However, the mechanisms of touch are still largely unknown. In this research, we will first develop a mechanical tactile system that imitates the human-like mechanisms of touch. We will then compare it with the human tactile sense to explain the mechanisms of human touch.

When we think of VR, what often comes to mind is the experience of entering a virtual space and looking at or hearing things, such as in HMD. I have been involved in VR research, particularly tactile VR, since I was a student. I was interested in research on the human tactile sense, and decided to make it the topic of my life: methods for reproducing this sense through mechanisms. What attracts me to this research topic is that the methods for implementing the tactile sense are difficult, and as a result, no one in the world has been able to do it yet.

Today’s smartphones are equipped with functions that offer various services by automatically identifying objects captured with a built-in camera. This technology is called Computer Vision, and it is gradually being adopted in a broad manner to improve our lives. In this study, we aim to create Computer Haptic technology as a mechanical tactile sense, and to have this technology contribute to improving our everyday lives. For example, it will help to achieve the creation of dexterous industrial robots for manufacturing and gentle human support robots for use in the home.

The human tactile sense feels high-speed mechanical vibration that occurs when you touch something with your fingertips. This is why any tactile sensor must also work at high speed. The AI that determines what is being touched must also work at high speed. Therefore, we will need to start by achieving this kind of high-speed haptic system hardware. In this study, we will use electronic circuits that can rewrite content in order to develop a system called FPGA that integrates sensors with AI.

The aim of this study is to achieve an artificial human-like tactile sense. Such a system could be applied in any situation in which objects come into contact with one another. In a factory, robots could be made more dexterous and replace humans for tasks that could previously only be completed by humans. The technology for holding a person up by touching them is usually very difficult and dangerous work, but this would be possible with robots equipped with a tactile sense. In short, this research can contribute to our well-being in everyday life.

Partnerships:
I am seeking the following partnership:
-Machine learning engineers (I need technology to process high-speed, complex machine learning)
-Robotics engineers (I need robots that can move dynamically according to tactile sensor detection results)
-Robot SIers (to understand the actual needs of robots, develop robots equipped with a tactile sense accordingly, and popularize them throughout the world).

Research collaborations:
In any collaboration, I always strive to maintain a balance of give and take. I believe it’s essential to consistently consider the benefits for my partners and work together to do research that contribute to their success.