RARA Fellow
Exploring frontier possibilities in digital transformation (DX) through sensor and micromachine research
Exploring frontier possibilities in digital transformation (DX) through sensor and micromachine research
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FELLOW PROFILE
Received his BS degree in Electronics Engineering in 1991, MS degree in Electrical Engineering in 1993, and his PhD degree in Electrical Engineering in 1996, all from the University of Tokyo, Japan. Serving as a Professor at Ritsumeikan University, Japan, since 2006, having joined in 1996.
Also serving as a Visiting Professor at Shiga University of Medical Science since 2007. Previously served as Visiting Professor at the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University (2009-2014).
Spent his sabbaticals at Caltech (2002-2003) and served as visiting professor at Universite libre de Bruxelles (2011), observer at Harvard University (2015), visiting professor at University of British Columbia (2023), guest professor at Uppsala University and at KTH(Royal Institute of Technology) in 2024.
An Editorial Board Member of four international journals.
Frontiers created by Micromachine Technology bridging between Life
The research engages in the following research on sensors and micromachines with consideration of both microscopic and macroscopic perspectives. The research aims to benefit society through interdisciplinary studies that integrate medical and health fields, with a focus on the relationship between humans and science and technology.
-Research on sensors and micromachines, especially soft micromachines
-Research on bionic micromachines
-Research on microrobots and their human interface applications
I have naturally been interested in model-based system design from both microscopic and macroscopic perspectives. My PhD thesis focused on autonomous decentralized systems composed of elemental cells of micromachine, examining both software and hardware aspects. Since then, I have been researching sensors and micromachines for biomedical applications, learning from the structures and mechanisms found in living organisms. I aim to advance the research and development of bionic micromachines and microrobots, leveraging cutting-edge technology for sensors and micromachines.
In the field of sensor and micromachine research, particularly focusing on soft micromachines, we are engaged in developing Organ-on-a-Chip systems integrated with sensors and micromachines, and exploring their applications through bionic micromachine research. Furthermore, we advance microrobot research and its human interface applications, driven by the exploration of frontier possibilities enabled by “tactile microscope” technology. Our research will explore frontier possibilities of sensors and micromachines with DX.
The relationship between engineering and life science is rapidly narrowing as seen in the growth of regenerative medicine research using cell engineering. In general, engineering provides methods or tools to address problems or satisfy requirements in the application fields. It is crucial to understand both engineering and application fields, such as medicine and pharmacy. Our research, characterized by interdisciplinary collaboration, can bridge the gap between engineering and the application fields of life science.
Partnerships:
It is essential to build partnerships based on a foundation of trust with those in the application field who have a deep understanding of the value of engineering.
Furthermore, fostering collaborations between social sciences and engineering, grounded in an understanding of the social contributions of science and technology, is crucial for effective implementation in society.
Research collaborations:
Growth through altruism is achieved by leveraging mutual benefits and individual advantages built on trust-based relationships.