・Research Group:

 1. Media group

The Media Group conducts research on image processing, music, and meta-algorithms. In image information processing, we apply digital image processing technology and study using image recognition technology necessary for robots and computers to understand the external world. In addition, we aim to clarify the mechanism of human space recognition through information visualization and experience expansion using CG and VR, and research on interaction. In addition, in research on music, in addition to speech and sound signals, we are trying to construct a new music system that handles information such as human emotional behavior. In the research on meta-algorithms, we use research-based information processing systems such as neural networks to conduct research that deals with prediction, control, recognition, synthesis, and human sensibility that conventional computers are not good at. Furthermore, by applying these to control, we are trying new control methods that incorporate learning.

  • Construction of four-dimensional space display
  • Construction of Automatic Translation System of Classical Forms
  • Construction of automatic music composition system based on listening experience using deep learning
  • Tactile sense presentation of virtual objects using AR
  • Modular Reinforcement Learning with Multiple Rewards and Gates

 

 2. Robotics group

We are researching basic technologies necessary for the realization of human coexistence robots, such as environment recognition, dynamic control, interfaces, behavioral algorithms, etc. We participate in the Waseda University Humanoid Research Institute and are constructing a humanoid robot recognition system.

    • Design, construction and implementation of control system of humanoid robot
    • Inverted pendulum type robot that can get off the steps
    • Haptic display using a vibrator
    • Multi-purpose interface using intraoral movement
    • Efficient Path Planning Considering Dirt Distribution for Automatic Cleaning Robot
    • Swing trajectory control of putting using Control Moment Gyroscope
    • Control algorithm of robot capturing fugitives
    • Autonomous voice acquisition by robot
    • Design, construction, and implementation of bionics robotic fish and attitude control by inverse learning

 

 3. Chemical Robotics Group

It is thought that it is very difficult for conventional robots to realize robots with biological functions such as self-replication and autonomous drive. We are trying to realize robots close to living things based on materials rather than general mechanical systems. Specifically, we are promoting the following research.

  • Study on self-driven gel actuator
  • Frequency response measurement of a dielectric elastomer actuator
  • Nanofiber-type actuator mimicking muscle fiber
  • A gel robot with peristaltic motion due to the formation of progressive contraction waves
  • Study of capsule gel driven by oil droplets self-propelled rotation
  • Research on automatic assembly of polymer gel parts
  • Development of origami robot by printing method

 

 4. SMA group

The sense of touch is not a direct detection of the physical structure of an object by a specific living organ such as the eye or ear, but a sense of touch placed complexly under the skin based on physical phenomena such as deformation of the skin and heat conduction. It is understood that it is perceived by the receptor and this is transmitted to the brain and understood as “somatic sensation”. We are promoting research and development of sensors that perceive and understand such tactile sensations as human beings, and technology for transmitting and presenting them as well as video and audio to remote locations.

We are researching and developing actuators and sensors that apply shape-memory alloy (SMA) wires to generation and measurement of tactile sensation. In the past, SMA, which undergoes phase transformation at temperature, has been considered to be “slow” as an actuator. In our laboratory, we have developed the characteristics of SMA that causes deformation in 1 msec or less and its control method, and are conducting research to use this as a tactile actuator and sensor.

  • Study of physical properties of phase transformation of SMA
  • Development of a new SMA that causes transformation efficiently
  • Research on construction of tactile actuator and tactile sensor
  • Study on micro vibration control of SMA wire
  • Tactile interface, construction of tactile interaction system
  • Development of tactile display using SMA actuator and development to multimodal interface
  • Development of a wireless bionic robotic fish using SMA actuators

 5. Artifical Intelligence

    • Automatic Detection of Landmines, Unexploded Ordnance and the Explosive Remnants of War Using a Drone, IR cameras and AIs