The laboratory is dedicated to the creation of novel devices and control techniques. It also researches their applications to human and technological problems. The group explores two main themes.
Actuators are at the source of movement.
They not only are fundamental components of any robotic device, but often are a limiting factor of performance. Haptic Devices are on one hand high performance robotic devices, and on the other components of human-machine interfaces. The Laboratory researches the design and control of these devices with a particular focus on high fidelity design and associated computer software. Because haptic interfaces are primarily communication tools between humans and machines, performance is directly linked to usefulness. The laboratory has recently become involved in exciting applications including rehabilitation, operator assistance in space, and medecine.