Spring 2026 speaker overview collage

Distinguished Lecture Series Archive 2018

Distinguished Lecture Series Archive 2018

2018-02-23 - Philippe Cattin (University of Basel)

Reinventing Bone Surgery: From Planning to Execution of a Hard-Tissue Cut

Abstract This talk presents the MIRACLE flagship project, which explores laser technology to transform hard-tissue cutting in bone surgery. It also covers new concepts for planning and visualizing interventions in virtual and augmented reality.

2018-03-09 - Sarthak Misra (University of Twente)

Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: Needle Steering

Abstract Soft-tissue displacement can cause target motion and needle misplacement in minimally invasive procedures. This talk presents needle steering methods combining kinematic/mechanics deflection models with image-guided control. Validation includes fiber Bragg grating-based optical shape sensing and ultrasound feedback, with applicability in MR/CT-guided interventions.

2018-03-23 - Stefano Stramigioli (University of Twente)

Energy Aware Robotics, from Concepts to Real Systems

Abstract Energy is a foundational concept in physics and robotics. This talk introduces core concepts of an energy-aware robotics paradigm, outlines related activities in Twente, and explains practical use and benefits through real systems.

2018-04-20 - Helen Huang (NCSU/UNC)

Restoring Motor Function in Amputees with Smart Prostheses

Abstract As amputee populations grow, robotic prostheses need better neural control and adaptation. This talk focuses on understanding amputee-prosthesis interaction and developing advanced control strategies for environment and user adaptation to improve functional restoration and quality of life.

2018-05-04 - Jessica Burgner-Kahrs (Leibniz University)

Continuum Robots - Developments and Challenges on a Millimeter Scale

Abstract Continuum robots differ from rigid-link robots through flexible and elastic structures inspired by biology. This talk provides an overview of designs, kinematic modeling, planning, and control, with applications in minimally invasive surgery and inspection. It discusses key merits and open research challenges.

2018-05-18 - Maura Casadio (IIT, University of Genoa)

Body Machine Interfaces for Assistance and Rehabilitation

Abstract Body-machine interfaces leverage residual motor skills, unlike brain interfaces that bypass spinal pathways, enabling assistive control and concurrent rehabilitation for people with severe motor disabilities. This talk reviews core concepts, construction steps, and critical issues for unified assistive/rehabilitative use.

2018-06-01 - Katherine Kuchenbecker (MPI for Intelligent Systems)

Telerobotic Touch

Abstract Replacing mechanical master-slave connections with computational links in teleoperation can create instability, often leading to omission of haptics. This talk presents approaches for restoring telerobotic touch, especially naturalistic tactile cues, to improve usability and performance without compromising stability. Examples include minimally invasive surgery and household robotics.

Source: ETH Soft Robotics Lab Distinguished Lecture Series Archive.

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