We are currently working on the following research topics.
Biped Robot
We are studying motion control and hardware of biped robots.
- Lianqiang Han, Xuechao Chen, Zhangguo Yu, Zhifa Gao, Gao Huang, Jintao Zhang, Kenji Hashimoto and Qiang Huang, “A heuristic gait template planning and dynamic motion control for biped robots,” Robotica, Vol. 41, Issue 2, pp. 789-805, 2023.
(https://doi.org/10.1017/S026357472200162X) - Lianqiang Han, Xuechao Chen, Zhangguo Yu, Xishuo Zhu, Kenji Hashimoto and Qiang Huang, “Trajectory-free dynamic locomotion using key trend states for biped robots with point feet,” Science China Information Sciences, Vol. 66, Article No. 189201, 2022.
(https://doi.org/10.1007/s11432-021-3450-5)
Hopping Robot, MH (Meiji Hopper) series
With the long-term goal of realizing a legged robot (biped or quadruped) capable of dynamic locomotion such as jumping and running, we are developing a monopod robot with one degree of freedom each at the hip and knee joints.
- Asahi Anzai, Toshihide Doi, Kazuki Hashida, Xuechao Chen, Lianqiang Han and Kenji Hashimoto, “Monopod robot prototype with reaction wheel for hopping and posture stabilisation,” International Journal of Mechatronics and Automation, Vol. 8, No. 4, pp. 163–174, 2021.
(https://doi.org/10.1504/IJMA.2021.120383)
Quadruped Wheeled Robot, MELEW (Meiji Leg-Wheeled Robot) series
We are developing a quadruped wheeled robot that combines the features of both a leg robot with high mobility on uneven terrain and a wheeled robot with high-speed locomotion ability on flat terrain.
Acrobot (Acrobat Robot)
We are developing an acrobot that can perform giant swing on high bar.
Component Technology Using Fluid Power
Robots are often developed using electric motors, but we are also conducting research using fluid power such as pneumatic, hydraulic, and water pressure.
We have achieved a strong connection between a porous link and an elastic body, and by giving the elastic body the same structure as the McKibben-type artificial muscle, we have realized the integration of the link, joint, and actuator.
Assist Suit
We are working on the development of a “self-assist suit” that can assist a person with his/her own power.
- Ayumu Nara and Kenji Hashimoto, “Power Transmission Mechanism from Upper Limb to Lower Limb by Pneumatic Artificial Muscles for Development of Self-Assist Suit,” Abstract Booklet of the 16th World Congress of the International Federation for the Promotion of Mechanism and Machine Science (IFToMM WC 2023), pp. 9-10, Tokyo, Japan, November, 2023.
Robot Using Exaggerated Expressions in Comic Books
We are working on the development of robots that utilize the exaggerated expressions found in comic books.
We have developed a robot head that has eyes and a lower jaw that pop out greatly, and a system that can display streamlines.