Masashi Seki, Ph.D.

Engineer, Researcher, Creator

Bridging Robotics and Themed Entertainment

About

About

I have been building things since childhood.

What started with robots and electronics gradually expanded into interactive installations, projection mapping, and themed entertainment projects. Over the years, I have developed systems that combine mechanical design, electronics, and software to transform ideas into tangible experiences.

I am fascinated by the intersection of technology, storytelling, and guest experience. Whether designing a robotic system or an immersive attraction element, I enjoy refining details, solving complex challenges, and crafting experiences that surprise, engage, and inspire people.

My goal is to create memorable moments through engineering—bringing together technology and creativity to deliver wonder, emotion, and meaningful experiences.

Awards & Recognition

Awards & Recognition

  • 1st Place, TEA APAC NextGen Design Challenge — 2024

    Led the engineering design of an award-winning Olympic-themed walkthrough attraction concept developed by an international team.

  • World Robot Summit 2025 Future Convenience Store Challenge — Overall Champion

    Overall Champion and recipient of the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award.

  • Miura Award, The Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers — 2022

    Recognized as an outstanding graduate in mechanical engineering.

Technical Skills

Technical Skills

  • Systems Integration & Controls

    Robotics, mechatronics, systems integration, motion control, PID control, PLC programming (Omron), embedded systems, RT-Middleware (OpenRTM-aist), SysML

  • Mechanical Design & Prototyping

    Autodesk Inventor, SOLIDWORKS, Fusion 360, mechanical design, technical drawings, prototyping, machining, 3D printing, laser cutting

  • Electrical & Embedded Hardware

    Electrical system design, PCB design (KiCad), sensor and actuator integration, wiring, embedded electronics prototyping

  • Software & Creative Technology

    C++, C, Python, Arduino framework, Processing, openFrameworks, TouchDesigner, Git/GitHub

Themed Entertainment Association Activities

Themed Entertainment
Association Activities

  • Co-President, TEA SEP of Japan

    I co-lead the Japan community of the Themed Entertainment Association’s Students and Emerging Professionals program.

    I organize networking events, technical discussions, workshops, and guest speaker sessions for students and early-career professionals interested in themed entertainment. I also collaborate with TEA members and industry professionals across the Asia-Pacific region to create opportunities for cross-disciplinary learning, professional development, and international exchange.

Learn more about TEA SEP of Japan

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Selected Publications & Patents

Selected Publications & Patents

  • Patents

    Named inventor on three patent applications related to automated retail systems and dynamic physical product presentation technologies, filed in 2022, 2024, and 2025.

  • Selected Publication

    Seki, M., et al. “Development of Automated Display Shelf System for New Purchasing Experience by Dynamic Product Layout Changes.” Journal of Robotics and Mechatronics, 2025.