Prof. Akio Yamamoto

The University of Tokyo, Japan

Bio.: Dr. Akio Yamamoto is a Full Professor at the Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo. He obtained his Ph.D. in Engineering from the Department of Precision Machinery Engineering, The University of Tokyo, in 1999. He served as an Associate Professor from 2005 and a Full Professor from 2017 at the School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo. In 2020, he moved to the Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, where he continues to hold a Full Professor position. 

His primary research interests lie in the fields of robotics and mechatronics. Specifically, he has focused on electrostatic actuators, non-contact object handling, and haptic devices. Dr. Yamamoto's significant contributions to these areas have been recognized in many awards, including the Best Automation Paper in IEEE ICRA 2006, the Best Paper Prize in IFAC Mechatronics Journal, and The 8th Nagamori Award from Nagamori Foundation.

Title: Electrostatic Film Actuators: Shaping the Future of Flexible Systems and Interactive Devices

Electrostatic film actuators, utilizing thin, flexible film electrode substrates, offer a unique combination of high force and inherent flexibility, making them a powerful candidate for next-generation robotic actuators. Their material versatility even allows for transparent designs, which open up novel application possibilities, particularly in human-computer interaction. While their fundamental principles have been known for over three decades, their inherent features and performance still stand out. This keynote will explore the fundamental principles and unique applications of these actuators. The talk will highlight their potential as artificial muscles for robotics and in human-machine interaction devices, alongside innovative uses like paper sheet handling, dynamic 3D paper morphing, and the integration of sensing capabilities.