Next-generation mechatronics through innovations in actuation technology

At Keio University, the Takemura Lab, in the Faculty of Science and Technology, is doing R&D on robot fundamental technologies. In particular, the researchers are focusing on electro-conjugate fluids, electrorheological fluids, and ultrasonic vibration. In this way, they aim to achieve breakthroughs in mechatronics technology, which will enable novel applications.

Q. As fundamental technologies, we're mainly utilizing electro-conjugate fluids, electrorheological fluids, and ultrasonic vibration. The core aspect of our research is, first of all, we have to thoroughly understand fundamental technologies. Rather than buying a motor and sensors, and trying to make a new robot, we want to design and use our own fundamental technologies. So, a feature of our research is, it can't be imitated right away. We're doing things that only we can do, and I think that's a very important aspect of our work.

Electro-conjugate fluids, one technology being researched by the Takemura Lab, are a functional fluid technology, where a fluid flows when a DC voltage is applied. The Lab has utilized the fact that a tiny pair of electrodes can generate a pressure of one atmospheric pressure to develop devices: a microflexible hand that doesn't use mechanical pumps, and an active fluid-channel matrix. Because it's not yet known why electro-conjugate fluids flow when a voltage is applied, the Takemura Lab is also doing fundamental research on flow theory.

Electrorheological fluids are functional fluids that change their viscosity or solid-liquid phase when a DC voltage is applied. The Takemura Lab has utilized the transition between liquid and solid states to develop a device for displaying surface roughness. The researchers aim to apply this technology to user interfaces. Such interfaces could create buttons on a flat surface, such as a touchscreen.

Meanwhile, in research on ultrasonic vibration, the Lab has developed simple, compact ultrasonic motors. The researchers are also developing micro fluid drives, and haptic devices that can display textures, by using ultrasonic vibration. In addition, the Lab has used piezoelectric elements to achieve haptic sensors, which measure the tactile sensation of various materials.

Q. Until now, robots have existed slightly apart from people; for example, in factories, where most people don't come into contact with them. But using our core technologies, I think we could make robots more like people. For example, we could easily make soft, small hands by using electro-conjugate fluids, or use ultrasonic vibration to create tactile sensations. So, robot technologies are being used unobtrusively, in more familiar settings. I think we can create a future where robots don't appear robotic; instead, they'll seem more natural and less strange, so they blend right into daily life.