Doctorate Student Rene, Robotics Research Honored | KUAS

Kyoto, Japan – Rene Manuel Suarez Flores, a Doctorate student from Kyoto University of Advanced Science’s (KUAS) Novel Intelligent Systems and Advanced Robotics (NISAR) Laboratory, was recognized at the 42nd Annual Conference of the Robotics Society of Japan (RSJ 2024). Mr. Suarez Flores was selected as a finalist for the International Session Best Presentation Award for his paper, “Effect of Taper and Chamber Shape on the Performance of a Bidirectional Soft Pneumatic Robot Finger.” The award ceremony took place in Osaka from September 3 to 6, 2024.

Advancing Soft Robotics Technology

Under the guidance of Dr. Sajid Nisar, Associate Professor and Principal Investigator of the NISAR Lab, Mr. Suarez Flores’s research focuses on enhancing the operational capabilities of soft pneumatic robotic fingers. This collaborative work, conducted at KUAS in conjunction with a visiting student from Ohio State University, USA, investigated the influence of taper and chamber shape design on bidirectional actuation in these devices.

This innovative research offers significant potential applications in fields requiring precise and adaptable manipulation, such as adaptive grasping and precision handling.

Recognition of Research Excellence at KUAS

The selection of Mr. Suarez Flores as a finalist at the RSJ Annual Conference highlights his dedication and the high standard of research cultivated at KUAS. This accomplishment reflects the university’s commitment to developing the next generation of robotics researchers and engineers who address real-world challenges through scientific innovation.

(Hiroshi Kawakami, Faculty of Engineering)
(Revisioned by Giovanni Perez, International Office)