Next-Gen Actuators
2025-07-06 12:15:18

Okayama University Hosts Mini Seed Presentation for Next-Gen Pneumatic Actuators

Innovative Presentation at Okayama University



On June 25, 2025, the Okayama Digital Innovation Creation Platform (OI-Start), led by Okayama University, collaborated with the Okayama Prefectural Industrial Promotion Foundation to host the 'Mini Seed Presentation for University Researchers' at the Tsushima Campus’s KIBINOVE (Co-Creation Innovation Lab). This event saw the participation of 16 participants from local companies and municipalities.

The highlight of the day was a lecture by Assistant Professor Soshuke Shimooka from the Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science, who introduced his groundbreaking research on a new generation of pneumatic actuators entitled 'Balancing Softness and Strength'.

Pneumatic actuators, which convert electrical signals into physical movement, are widely utilized in industries such as robotics and healthcare. Among these, soft actuators employing pneumatic technologies have gained popularity due to their high flexibility and safety. Shimooka presented the 'Extended Flat Pneumatic Actuator' (EFPA), designed to overcome traditional limitations such as weak output from deformable structures and the requirement for high pressure for strong output.

Shimooka explained that by innovating the structure and materials of the EFPA, they achieved a balance between softness and power while allowing operation at low pressure, resulting in minimal hysteresis and high precision in control. This technology shows great promise for applications in robotics and wearable devices, particularly in the medical and caregiving sectors.

Participants were provided with a hands-on demonstration of the actuator, showcasing its powerful and flexible movements, which captured the interest of many attendees. Following the presentation, attendees engaged in lively discussions regarding the actuator's potential applications and the future direction of the research.

This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of Okayama University to foster innovations that not only enhance productivity and appeal for local businesses but also encourage youth to remain and thrive in the region.

Individuals interested in this groundbreaking technology are encouraged to reach out to the OI-Start Secretariat for more information.

About OI-Start


The Okayama Digital Innovation Creation Platform (OI-Start) serves as a collaborative platform powered by industry, academia, and government entities focused on creating innovation through digital technology. The platform aims to cultivate talent that contributes to increased productivity and attractiveness of local businesses, promoting youth retention in Okayama.

For ongoing updates and additional resources regarding innovations at Okayama University, readers can explore the following links:

Okayama University is dedicated to promoting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and recently received a special award in the first 'Japan SDGs Award.' As a research university with unique characteristics, it aims to advance education and innovation that contribute to both regional and global development.

For inquiries regarding cooperation or partnerships about this innovative actuator technology, the OI-Start Secretariat can be contacted.


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Topics Business Technology)

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