Research Groups
Human Motion Analysis Group
Human movements are generated by skeletal muscle contraction.
The muscle is not only a force generator like an actuator, but also a viscoelastic component like a spring and dumper set.
In our laboratory, we are measuring the mechanical characteristics of muscles and modeling them based on the engineering techniques.
Fundamental Research Themes
- Properties of human movement impedance
- Impedance perception of human beings
- Analysis of manipulability and Impedance regulation
- Mechanism of human hand trajectory Generation
Applied Research Themes
- Impedance training
- Virtual sports training
- Analysis of automobile manipulability
Bioelectric Signal Analysis Group
The electric pulse is transmitted from brain to muscles through the nervous system when we intend to contract muscles.
At the same time, the muscle itself discharges micro electric current.
The recording of such electrical current in an active muscle is called an electromyogram (EMG).
Besides, a biological system generates other bioelectric signals, such as an electroencephalogram (EEG), an electrocardiogram (ECG), and so on.
In our laboratory, we are applying those bioelectric signals to the new input source of various man-machine interface systems.
Fundamental Research Themes
- EMG pattern discrimination using neural network
- Pattern discrimination of electrophysiological information
- Skill assisttance based on task model
- Impedance matching
Applied Research Themes
- A human-aid manipulator with prosthetic hand
- An EMG-controlled omni-directional pointing device
- Pattern discrimination of phonetic sounds from EMG signals for a substitute vocalization
- A Meal-assistance manipulator using EMG signals
- Barrier-free interface: Bio-Remote
Artificial Life Group
Even animals, plants and microorganisms have the advanced capability to process information and control motion the same as human being.
In our laboratory, we are modeling a virtual life, focusing on the microorganism, on the basis of biological evidences.
Fundamental Research Themes
- Virtual bacteria
- Virtual paramecium
- Virtual C.elegans
- Modeling of chemotaxis, thigmotaxis, phototaxis
- Evolutionary simulation
- Gene simulation
Applied Research Themes
- Bio-mimetic control of mobile robot
Medical Engineering Group
Engineering technology is indispensable to medical development.
Medical Engineering (ME) refers to a field integrating both medical science and engineering, aiming to develop new technologies which are used for medical science.
Sometimes engineers and medical scientists join forces in researching and developing new products.
In our laboratory, we are developing new medical equipments using various engineering methodologies.
Fundamental Research Themes
- Measurement and modeling of arterial wall impedance
- Brain functional analysis using functional MRI
- Energy transmission and control for implantable devices
Applied Research Themes
- Diagnosis support system of vascular conditions
- Esophageal detector device
- Artificial heart