Kohei Kimura
Assistant Professor, Department of Informatics

The research led by Kohei Kimura at the Department of Informatics, Graduate School of Informatics and Engineering, focuses on developing robots with "transformable" and "multipurpose" capabilities. The aim is to create adaptable robots that can change their shape to suit different environments and perform various tasks using a single robotic form.

The project features four main types of robots:
1. Transformable Climbing Robot: This robot can switch between wheeled and climbing modes, adapting its form to navigate both horizontal and vertical surfaces. It uses sensors to detect obstacles and transitions seamlessly between different movements.

2. Transformable Humanoid with Umbrella: Equipped with a folding umbrella to prevent fall damage, this robot deploys the umbrella upon detecting a fall, cushioning the impact. The robot then stands up and closes the umbrella.

3. Tidying Robot with Bag: This robot uses a bag-attached manipulator to collect and organize various objects, including small items that could damage robot vacuum cleaners. The bag accommodates different shapes and quantities safely.

4. Multipurpose Stair Cleaning Robot: Capable of cleaning both the horizontal treads and vertical risers of stairs, this robot uses sponges and grippers to wipe surfaces and remove obstacles.

The research underscores the importance of developing versatile robots that can operate across diverse environments, reducing the need for multiple specialized units. By integrating transformable and multipurpose features, these robots are designed to enhance functionality and adaptability in real-world applications.

Future goals include creating robots that combine both transformable and multipurpose traits, potentially working in swarms to expand their capabilities. The research emphasizes the need for robust hardware and software integration to support these multifunctional robots, and it encourages collaboration to drive further innovation.

Research Keywords
Robotics, Climbing Robot, Humanoid Robot, Tidying Robot, Stair Cleaning Robot