Research

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.

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.

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.

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.