Distinguished Lecture Series Archive 2023
Distinguished Lecture Series Archive 2023
Fall Semester
2023-09-22 - Steven LaValle (University of Oulu)
From RRTs to the Path of Minimalism
Abstract
This talk surveys three decades of work ranging from robots with complete models to robots with little or no memory or computational ability. It covers rapidly exploring random trees (RRTs), including bang-bang RRTs, then shifts to an egocentric view of robot development focused on minimal sensing and memory requirements. The central question is: what is the minimal information needed to solve tasks? The talk explores weak geometric sensing, relational and combinatorial sensing, and finally topological and set-based minimalist models.2023-10-06 - Wei Gao (Caltech)
Synthetic Micro/Nanorobot: From Test Tubes to Live Animals
Abstract
Inspired by Fantastic Voyage, this talk covers synthetic micro/nanorobots propelled by localized chemical reactions and external stimuli (magnetic or ultrasound fields) for biosensing, bioimaging, bioisolation, and targeted drug delivery. It includes metal-organic framework nanorobots powered by bioavailable hydrogen peroxide in tumor cells and imaging-guided micromotors for deep-tissue navigation and in vivo targeted delivery.2023-10-20 - Angela Schoellig (TUM)
Better Robotics Through Machine Learning
Abstract
Machine learning enables major advances in robotics, but safety and reliability remain key barriers in real-world deployment. This talk presents approaches that combine prior models with data-driven methods to gain robust new skills. Examples include semantic-enhanced localization and mapping, language-model-assisted programming, sim2real gap learning, and safe/agile motion demonstrations. It also summarizes findings from safe learning in robotics and introduces open-source environments for benchmarking.2023-11-03 - Eduardo Rocon (Centre for Automation and Robotics)
On the Use of Technology for the Rehabilitation of People with Disabilities
Abstract
This talk addresses technologies for understanding, monitoring, and restoring motor control in conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, Parkinson's disease, and cerebral palsy. It presents developments in tremor monitoring/suppression and lower-limb exoskeleton rehabilitation for gait. Key objectives include drawing inspiration from neuroscience, aligning clinical objectives with robot-based therapies, and examining case studies of therapeutic effects.2023-11-17 - Nicola Vitiello (SSSA)
Wearable Robotics: From Lab to Market
Abstract
With aging populations threatening welfare sustainability, this talk presents wearable robotics research at The BioRobotics Institute of Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna for movement assistance, rehabilitation, and augmentation, alongside technology transfer activities aimed at market deployment.2023-12-01 - Pietro Valdastri (University of Leeds)
Soft Robotics for Early Detection and Treatment of Cancer
Abstract
The talk focuses on robotic flexible endoscopy and required levels of computer assistance to reduce operator burden. Conventional flexible endoscopy is difficult to operate and can be traumatic, expensive, and contamination-prone. Robotic flexible endoscopes offer an easier-to-use, safer, and potentially lower-risk alternative. The talk presents STORM Lab platforms and varying levels of computer assistance to improve usability and adoption.2023-12-15 - Itai Cohen (Cornell University)
Electronically Integrated Autonomous Microscopic Robots
Abstract
This talk explores electronically integrated machines at approximately 100 microns scale, where strong computing capability could be embedded into injectable robotic systems. It presents technologies toward microscopic robots with onboard detectors, power sources, and processors for local sensing, interaction, and control.Source: ETH Soft Robotics Lab Distinguished Lecture Series Archive.
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