Tactile Sensing
Tactile sensing is a major frontier that enables robotic systems to react quickly and meaningfully to touch. We develop modalities for tactile sensing that enable new methods of perception and control for real-world systems.
Research
EDG models, realizes and experimentally tests robotic and mechatronic systems that enable grasping and dexterous manipulation. This work impacts a wide range of applications; we have ongoing work relevant to space/ocean exploration, search and rescue, industrial/service tasks and human assistance.
Research videos at our YouTube channel.
Handling Granular, Rocky & Natural Media
Granular and rocky matter is commonplace on Earth, as well as the surfaces of the Moon and Mars. We model granular and rocky physical interactions as a means to design and control novel ground systems for autonomous and remote operation.
Underwater & Marine Systems
Systems designed for marine and underwater environments face special challenges for real-world adoption. We study how the fluid dynamics of operating underwater changes dexterous manipulation, and test novel robotic mechanisms in the field.
Assisting Human Grasping
Robots hold the potential to assist people through direct physical contact. Our work focuses on wearable robotic devices, like orthotics and prosthetics, and psychophysical studies in the context of physical human-robot interaction.