@article {4215, title = {Breathing in vitro: Designs and applications of engineered lung models}, journal = {Journal of Tissue Engineering}, volume = {12}, year = {2021}, pages = {20417314211008696}, abstract = {

The aim of this review is to provide a systematic design guideline to users, particularly engineers interested in developing and deploying lung models, and biologists seeking to identify a suitable platform for conducting in vitro experiments involving pulmonary cells or tissues. We first discuss the state of the art on lung in vitro models, describing the most simplistic and traditional ones. Then, we analyze in further detail the more complex dynamic engineered systems that either provide mechanical cues, or allow for more predictive exposure studies, or in some cases even both. This is followed by a dedicated section on microchips of the lung. Lastly, we present a critical discussion of the different characteristics of each type of system and the criteria which may help researchers select the most appropriate technology according to their specific requirements. Readers are encouraged to refer to the tables accompanying the different sections where comprehensive and quantitative information on the operating parameters and performance of the different systems reported in the literature is provided.

}, keywords = {aerosol exposure, fluidic systems, in vitro models, Lung models, stretching systems}, author = {Nossa, Roberta and Costa, Joana and Cacopardo, Ludovica and Ahluwalia, Arti} } @article {4318, title = {Comparison between rigid and soft poly-articulated prosthetic hands in non-expert myo-electric users shows advantages of soft robotics.}, journal = {Scientific Reports}, volume = {11}, year = {2021}, month = {12/2021}, chapter = {1}, abstract = {

Notwithstanding the advancement of modern bionic hands and the large variety of prosthetic hands in the market, commercial devices still present limited acceptance and percentage of daily use. While commercial prostheses present rigid mechanical structures, emerging trends in the design of robotic hands are moving towards soft technologies. Although this approach is inspired by nature and could be promising for prosthetic applications, there is scant literature concerning its benefits for end-users and in real-life scenarios. In this work, we evaluate and assess the role and the benefits of soft robotic technologies in the field of prosthetics. We propose a thorough comparison between rigid and soft characteristics of two poly-articulated hands in 5 non-expert myo-electric prosthesis users in pre- and post-therapeutic training conditions. The protocol includes two standard functional assessments, three surveys for user-perception, and three customized tests to evaluate the sense of embodiment. Results highlight that rigid hands provide a more precise grasp, while soft properties show higher functionalities thanks to their adaptability to different requirements, intuitive use and more natural execution of activities of daily living. This comprehensive evaluation suggests that softness could also promote a quick integration of the system in non-expert users.

}, isbn = {ISSN 2045-2322}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-02562-y}, url = {https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-02562-y}, author = {Capsi-Morales, Patricia and Piazza, Cristina and Catalano, Manuel G. and Grioli, Giorgio and Schiavon, Lisa and Fiaschi, Elena and Bicchi, Antonio} } @article {4178, title = {A Configurable Architecture for Two Degree-of-Freedom Variable Stiffness Actuators to Match the Compliant Behavior of Human Joints}, journal = {Frontiers in Robotics and AI}, volume = {8}, year = {2021}, month = {03/2021}, abstract = {

Living beings modulate the impedance of their joints to interact proficiently, robustly, and safely with the environment. These observations inspired the design of soft articulated robots with the development of Variable Impedance and Variable Stiffness Actuators. However, designing them remains a challenging task due to their mechanical complexity, encumbrance, and weight, but also due to the different specifications that the wide range of applications requires. For instance, as prostheses or parts of humanoid systems, there is currently a need for multi-degree-of-freedom joints that have abilities similar to those of human articulations. Toward this goal, we propose a new compact and configurable design for a two-degree-of-freedom variable stiffness joint that can match the passive behavior of a human wrist and ankle. Using only three motors, this joint can control its equilibrium orientation around two perpendicular axes and its overall stiffness as a one-dimensional parameter, like the co-contraction of human muscles. The kinematic architecture builds upon a state-of-the-art rigid parallel mechanism with the addition of nonlinear elastic elements to allow the control of the stiffness. The mechanical parameters of the proposed system can be optimized to match desired passive compliant behaviors and to fit various applications (e.g., prosthetic wrists or ankles, artificial wrists, etc.). After describing the joint structure, we detail the kinetostatic analysis to derive the compliant behavior as a function of the design parameters and to prove the variable stiffness ability of the system. Besides, we provide sets of design parameters to match the passive compliance of either a human wrist or ankle. Moreover, to show the versatility of the proposed joint architecture and as guidelines for the future designer, we describe the influence of the main design parameters on the system stiffness characteristic and show the potential of the design for more complex applications

}, keywords = {articulated soft robotics, artificial joints, humanoids, prostheses, variable stiffness}, issn = {2296-9144}, doi = {10.3389/frobt.2021.614145}, url = {https://www.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/frobt.2021.614145}, author = {S. Lemerle and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi and G. Grioli} } @article {4223, title = {Integral pulse frequency modulation model driven by sympathovagal dynamics: Synthetic vs. real heart rate variability}, journal = {Biomedical Signal Processing and Control}, volume = {68}, year = {2021}, pages = {102736}, author = {Candia-Rivera, Diego and Catrambone, Vincenzo and Barbieri, Riccardo and Valenza, Gaetano} } @article {4119, title = {Integrating Wearable Haptics and Obstacle Avoidance for the Visually Impaired in Indoor Navigation: A User-Centered Approach}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Haptics}, volume = {14}, year = {2021}, pages = {1-1}, chapter = {109}, doi = {10.1109/TOH.2020.2996748}, url = {https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9099604}, author = {F. Barontini and M. G. Catalano and L. Pallottino and B. Leporini and M. Bianchi} } @article {4222, title = {Intensification of functional neural control on heartbeat dynamics in subclinical depression}, journal = {Translational Psychiatry}, volume = {11}, year = {2021}, pages = {1{\textendash}10}, author = {Catrambone, Vincenzo and Benvenuti, Simone Messerotti and Gentili, Claudio and Valenza, Gaetano} } @article {4120, title = {On Null Space-Based Inverse Kinematics Techniques for Fleet Management: Toward Time-Varying Task Activation}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Robotics}, volume = {37}, year = {2021}, pages = {257 - 274}, doi = {10.1109/TRO.2020.3018642}, url = {https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9194321}, author = {A. Mannucci and D. Caporale and L. Pallottino} } @article {4299, title = {Robust Footstep Planning and LQR Control for Dynamic Quadrupedal Locomotion}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters}, volume = {6}, year = {2021}, pages = {4488{\textendash}4495}, author = {Xin, Guiyang and Xin, Songyan and Cebe, Oguzhan and Pollayil, Mathew Jose and Angelini, Franco and Garabini, Manolo and Vijayakumar, Sethu and Mistry, Michael} } @article {4224, title = {Time-resolved Brain-to-Heart Probabilistic Information Transfer Estimation Using Inhomogeneous Point-Process Models}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering}, year = {2021}, author = {Catrambone, Vincenzo and Talebi, Alireza and Barbieri, Riccardo and Valenza, Gaetano} } @article {4220, title = {Toward brain{\textendash}heart computer interfaces: a study on the classification of upper limb movements using multisystem directional estimates}, journal = {Journal of Neural Engineering}, volume = {18}, year = {2021}, pages = {046002}, author = {Catrambone, Vincenzo and Averta, Giuseppe and Bianchi, Matteo and Valenza, Gaetano} } @article {4205, title = {A wearable wrist haptic display for motion tracking and force feedback in the operational space}, journal = {Wearable Technologies}, volume = {2}, year = {2021}, author = {Laghi, Marco and Catalano, Manuel G and Grioli, Giorgio and Bicchi, Antonio} } @article {4271, title = {WRAPP-up: A Dual-Arm Robot for Intralogistics}, journal = {IEEE Robotics Automation Magazine}, volume = {28}, year = {2021}, pages = {50-66}, abstract = {

The diffusion of e-commerce has produced larger and larger volumes of varying items to be handled in warehouses, with the effect that the need for picking automation is increasing. Conventionally, automation has been achieved through a custom plant designed for large-scale production of items having well-established characteristics that are expected to change slowly and to only a small degree over time. However, today the challenge is to realize a solution that is flexible enough to handle goods with different shapes, sizes, and physical properties and that require different grasping modes. To solve this problem, we first analyzed how humans perform picking and then synthesized their behavior according to four main tactics. These were then used as guidelines for the design, planning, and control of WRAPP-up, a dual-arm robot composed of two anthropomorphic manipulators: a Pisa/IIT SoftHand and a velvet tray (Figure 1). The system has been validated and evaluated through extensive experimental tests.

}, doi = {10.1109/MRA.2020.3015899}, url = {https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9212558?fbclid=IwAR05rgEATvdOFrtQWMrNKMrGHGfvtKE4MEKcj3i9pb6KAI4XTdhMqaq7MNc}, author = {Garabini, Manolo and Caporale, Danilo and Tincani, Vinicio and Palleschi, Alessandro and Gabellieri, Chiara and Gugliotta, Marco and Settimi, Alessandro and Catalano, Manuel Giuseppe and Grioli, Giorgio and Pallottino, Lucia} } @conference {4179, title = {Compliance Control of a Cable-Suspended Aerial Manipulator using Hierarchical Control Framework}, booktitle = {2020 IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS)}, year = {2020}, pages = {7196-7202}, doi = {10.1109/IROS45743.2020.9340703}, author = {C. Gabellieri and Y. S. Sarkisov and A. Coelho and L. Pallottino and K. Kondak and M. J. Kim} } @article {3701, title = {Distributed model predictive control for energy management in a network of microgrids using the dual decomposition method}, journal = {Optimal Control Applications and Methods}, year = {2020}, chapter = {1-17}, abstract = {

Summary This paper deals with the application of model predictive control (MPC) to optimize power flows in a network of interconnected microgrids (MGs). More specifically, a distributed MPC (DMPC) approach is used to compute for each MG how much active power should be exchanged with other MGs and with the outer power grid. Due to the presence of coupled variables, the DMPC approach must be used in a suitable way to guarantee the feasibility of the consensus procedure among the MGs. For this purpose, we adopt a tailored dual decomposition method that allows us to reach a feasible solution while guaranteeing the privacy of single MGs (ie, without having to share private information like the amount of generated energy or locally consumed energy). Simulation results demonstrate the features of the proposed cooperative control strategy and the obtained benefits with respect to other classical centralized control methods.

}, keywords = {distributed systems, dual decomposition, microgrids, model predictive control}, doi = {10.1002/oca.2504}, url = {https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/oca.2504}, author = {M. Razzanelli and E. Crisostomi and L. Pallottino and G. Pannocchia} } @article {4083, title = {Evaluation of a Simultaneous Myoelectric Control Strategy for a Multi-DoF Transradial Prosthesis}, year = {2020}, author = {C. Piazza and M. Rossi and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi and L. Hargrove} } @article {4085, title = {Exploring augmented grasping capabilities in a multi-synergistic soft bionic hand}, journal = {Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation}, volume = {17}, year = {2020}, chapter = {116}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1186/s12984-020-00741-y}, url = {https://jneuroengrehab.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12984-020-00741-y$\#$article-info}, author = {C. Piazza and A. M. Simon and K. L. Turner and L. A. Miller and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi and L. Hargrove} } @article {4079, title = {Exploring Stiffness Modulation in Prosthetic Hands and Its Perceived Function in Manipulation and Social Interaction.}, journal = {Frontiers in Neurorobotics}, volume = {14}, year = {2020}, month = {06/2020}, abstract = {

To physically interact with a rich variety of environments and to match situation-dependent requirements, humans adapt both the force and stiffness of their limbs. Reflecting this behavior in prostheses may promote a more natural and intuitive control and, consequently, improve prostheses acceptance in everyday life. This pilot study proposes a method to control a prosthetic robot hand and its impedance, and explores the utility of variable stiffness when performing activities of daily living and physical social interactions. The proposed method is capable of a simultaneous and proportional decoding of position and stiffness intentions from two surface electro-myographic sensors placed over a pair of antagonistic muscles. The feasibility of our approach is validated and compared to existing control modalities in a preliminary study involving one prosthesis user. The algorithm is implemented in a soft under-actuated prosthetic hand (SoftHand Pro). Then, we evaluate the usability of the proposed approach while executing a variety of tasks. Among these tasks, the user interacts with other 12 able-bodied subjects, whose experiences were also assessed. Several statistically significant aspects from the System Usability Scale indicate user{\textquoteright}s preference of variable stiffness control over low or high constant stiffness due to its reactivity and adaptability. Feedback reported by able-bodied subjects reveal a general tendency to favor soft interaction, i.e., low stiffness, which is perceived more human-like and comfortable. These combined results suggest the use of variable stiffness as a viable compromise between firm control and safe interaction which is worth investigating further.

}, keywords = {human-robot social interaction, impedance control, prosthetics, Soft robotics, task adaptability}, doi = {10.3389/fnbot.2020.00033}, url = {https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnbot.2020.00033/full?\&utm_source=Email_to_authors_\&utm_medium=Email\&utm_content=T1_11.5e1_author\&utm_campaign=Email_publication\&field=\&journalName=Frontiers_in_Neurorobotics\&id=503842}, author = {Capsi-Morales, Patricia and C. Piazza and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi and G. Grioli} } @article {4081, title = {Exploring the Role of Palm Concavity and Adaptability in Soft Synergistic Robotic Hands}, journal = { IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters }, volume = {5}, year = {2020}, month = {17 June 2020}, pages = {4703 - 4710}, chapter = {4703}, abstract = {

Robotic hand engineers usually focus on finger capabilities, often disregarding the palm contribution. Inspired by human anatomy, this paper explores the advantages of including a flexible concave palm into the design of a robotic hand actuated by soft synergies. We analyse how the inclusion of an articulated palm improves finger workspace and manipulability. We propose a mechanical design of a modular palm with two elastic rolling-contact palmar joints, that can be integrated on the Pisa/IIT SoftHand, without introducing additional motors. With this prototype, we evaluate experimentally the grasping capabilities of a robotic palm. We compare its performance to that of the same robotic hand with the palm fixed, and to that of a human hand. To assess the effective grasp quality achieved by the three systems, we measure the contact area using paint-transfer patterns in different grasping actions. Preliminary grasping experiments show a closer resemblance of the soft-palm robotic hand to the human hand. Results evidence a higher adaptive capability and a larger involvement of all fingers in grasping.

}, keywords = {Ellipsoids, Grasping, Indexes, Kinematics, Robots, Shape, Thumb}, issn = { 2377-3766}, doi = {10.1109/LRA.2020.3003257}, url = {https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/9119822?source=authoralert}, author = {Capsi-Morales, Patricia and G. Grioli and C. Piazza and A. Bicchi and M. G. Catalano} } @article {4295, title = {Hands in the real world}, journal = {Frontiers in Robotics and AI}, volume = {6}, year = {2020}, pages = {147}, author = {Negrello, Francesca and Stuart, Hannah S and Catalano, Manuel G} } @article {4118, title = {LiDAR-Based GNSS Denied Localization for Autonomous Racing Cars}, journal = {Sensors}, volume = {20}, year = {2020}, doi = {10.3390/s20143992}, url = {https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/20/14/3992$\#$cite}, author = {F. Massa and L. Bonamini and A Settimi and L. Pallottino and D. Caporale} } @inbook {4117, title = {Networked Systems Theory: Distributed Algorithms for Optimal Cooperation of Dynamical Systems}, booktitle = {Analytics for the Sharing Economy: Mathematics, Engineering and Business Perspectives}, year = {2020}, pages = {25{\textendash}37}, publisher = {Springer International Publishing}, organization = {Springer International Publishing}, address = {Cham}, abstract = {

Interconnection of a large number of systems has become a reality from a technological point of view although intelligent connection among smart systems still presents a challenge in several application scenarios. More specifically, when many smart devices must accomplish an overall goal based on information exchanges with other devices, several factors render this task a real challenge, such as, knowing what specific information to exchange, with whom, how to go about it, and when this exchange will occur. Moreover, interconnected devices may require access to or the use of common resources, making the management of the overall system even more complex. The management of shared resources usually sets the goal of optimizing usage while guaranteeing achievement of the overall goals. Algorithms or protocols that grant the device a correct, safe and optimized access to resources play a fundamental role. In this chapter we will provide those algorithms that are fundamental in several different application scenarios that allow for the development of more complex algorithms in order to manage interconnected systems in the management of shared resources.

}, isbn = {978-3-030-35032-1}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-030-35032-1_3}, url = {https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-35032-1_3}, author = {L. Pallottino}, editor = {E. Crisostomi and B. Ghaddar and F. Hausler and J. Naoum-Sawaya and G. Russo and R. Shorten} } @proceedings {4106, title = {SIMULTANEOUS AND PROPORTIONAL DECODING OF STIFFNESS AND POSITION INTENTIONS FROM TWO SEMG CHANNELS FOR UL PROSTHETICS}, year = {2020}, month = {07/2020}, abstract = {

To physically interact with a rich variety of environments and situation-oriented requirements, humans continuously adapt both the stiffness and the force of their limbs through antagonistic muscle coactivation. Reflecting this behaviour in prostheses may promote control naturalness and intuitiveness and, consequently, their acceptance in everyday life. We propose a method capable of a simultaneous and proportional decoding of position and stiffness intentions from two surface electro-myographic sensors placed over a pair of antagonistic muscles. First, the algorithm is validated and compared to existing control modalities. Then, the algorithm is implemented in a soft under-actuated prosthetic hand (SoftHand Pro). We investigated the feasibility of our approach in a preliminary study involving one prosthetic user. Our future goal is to evaluate the usability of the proposed approach executing a variety of tasks including physical social interaction with other subjects (see Figure 1). Our hypothesis is that variable stiffness could be a compromise between firm control and safe interaction.

}, url = {https://conferences.lib.unb.ca/index.php/mec/article/view/35}, author = {Capsi-Morales, Patricia and C. Piazza and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi and G. Grioli} } @article {4292, title = {Softhandler: An integrated soft robotic system for handling heterogeneous objects}, journal = {IEEE Robotics \& Automation Magazine}, volume = {27}, year = {2020}, pages = {55{\textendash}72}, author = {Angelini, Franco and Petrocelli, Cristiano and Catalano, Manuel G and Garabini, Manolo and Grioli, Giorgio and Bicchi, Antonio} } @article {4291, title = {Time generalization of trajectories learned on articulated soft robots}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters}, volume = {5}, year = {2020}, pages = {3493{\textendash}3500}, author = {Angelini, Franco and Mengacci, Riccardo and Della Santina, Cosimo and Catalano, Manuel G and Garabini, Manolo and Bicchi, Antonio and Grioli, Giorgio} } @conference {4320, title = {Towards a Myoelectric Prosthetic Wrist with Rigid and Compliant Behaviour}, booktitle = {International Conference on NeuroRehabilitation}, year = {2020}, month = {10/2020}, pages = {489-493}, abstract = {

The simple kinematics of commercial prosthetic wrists limits the individuals in performing a wide range of tasks and restore natural motor functions. We propose a functional prosthesis that improves grasping capabilities through the addition of a simple yet useful 3 DoF myoelectric wrist joint with compliant and rigid properties. Its locking capability enables the adjustment of hand configuration in pre-grasping phases and separates the hand motion from the wrist motion. The proposed wrist, combined with a prosthetic hand, was tested with 8 able-bodied subjects and 1 subject with limb loss. It was compared to a common commercial rotational wrist and to subjects{\textquoteright} natural wrist. Results evidence the feasibility of the prototype, improved performance capabilities, and the subjects{\textquoteright} first impression about the proposed system. Finally, a prosthesis user tested and compared systems during Activities of Daily Living (ADL).

}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-70316-5_78}, url = {https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-030-70316-5_78}, author = {Capsi-Morales, Patricia and Piazza, Cristina and Grioli, Giorgio and Bicchi, Antonio and Catalano, Manuel G.} } @conference {4319, title = {Towards More Natural Transradial Bionic Limbs}, booktitle = {I-RIM}, year = {2020}, month = {12/2020}, abstract = {

Based on previous experience with prosthesis users and literature, this paper introduces three important aspects to further develop functional transradial myoelectric prostheses: stiffness modulation, grasp reliability and limb dexterity. In particular, we propose three possible solutions and discuss on the insights observed about the exploration of impedance control in prosthetic hands during Activities of Daily Living and social interaction, the introduction of an articulated palm to increase all hand parts contribution in grasping, and a compact 3 DoF myoelectric wrist capable to switch from compliant to rigid properties during pre-grasping phase to decrease compensatory movements and favour more natural body postures in prosthesis users.

}, keywords = {Bionic Limbs, Myoelectric control, Soft-robotics, Upper-limb prostheses}, url = {https://i-rim.it/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/I-RIM_2020_paper_144.pdf}, author = {Capsi-Morales, Patricia and Catalano, Manuel G. and Grioli, Giorgio and Piazza, Cristina and Bicchi, Antonio} } @article {3717, title = {Analysis of series elasticity in locomotion of a planar bipedal robot}, journal = { INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MECHANICS AND CONTROL}, year = {2019}, author = {S. Manara and G M Gasparri and M. Garabini and D. Caporale and M Gabiccini and A. Bicchi} } @article {3749, title = {Artificial hand}, number = {16/302227}, year = {2019}, month = {09/05}, url = {https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/4f/2c/07/915e9723cfe164/US20190269528A1.pdf}, author = {A. Bicchi and M. G. Catalano and C. Piazza and G. Grioli and C. Della Santina and M. Garabini} } @article {3649, title = {A Century of Robotic Hands}, journal = {Annual Review of Control, Robotics, and Autonomous Systems}, volume = {2}, year = {2019}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-control-060117-105003}, url = {https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev-control-060117-105003}, author = {C. Piazza and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi} } @article {4296, title = {A compact soft articulated parallel wrist for grasping in narrow spaces}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters}, volume = {4}, year = {2019}, pages = {3161{\textendash}3168}, author = {Negrello, Francesca and Mghames, Sariah and Grioli, Giorgio and Garabini, Manolo and Catalano, Manuel Giuseppe} } @article {3700, title = {Deconfliction of Motion Paths With Traffic Inspired Rules}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters}, volume = {4}, year = {2019}, month = {April}, pages = {2227-2234}, keywords = {Automobiles, Autonomous Vehicles, Collision Avoidance, multi-robot systems, Navigation, Physical Human-Robot Interaction, Roads, Robots, Safety}, issn = {2377-3766}, doi = {10.1109/LRA.2019.2899932}, author = {F. Celi and L. Wang and L. Pallottino and M. Egerstedt} } @article {3744, title = {Design and Assessment of Control Maps for Multi-Channel sEMG-Driven Prostheses and Supernumerary Limbs}, journal = {Frontiers in neurorobotics}, volume = {13}, year = {2019}, doi = {10.3389/fnbot.2019.00026}, url = {https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnbot.2019.00026/full}, author = {M. Maimeri and C. Della Santina and C. Piazza and M. Rossi and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli} } @article {3745, title = {Design and Assessment of Control Maps for Multi-Channel sEMG-Driven Prostheses and Supernumerary Limbs}, journal = {Frontiers in neurorobotics}, volume = {13}, year = {2019}, doi = {10.3389/fnbot.2019.00026}, author = {M. Maimeri and C. Della Santina and C. Piazza and M. Rossi and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli} } @article {3681, title = {Design and Validation of a Modular One-To-Many Actuator for a Soft Wearable Exosuit}, journal = {Frontiers in Neurorobotics}, year = {2019}, month = {06/2019}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.3389/fnbot.2019.00039}, url = {https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnbot.2019.00039/full}, author = {M. Xiloyannis and E. Annese and M. Canesi and A. Kodian and A. Bicchi and S. Micera and A. Ajoudani and L. Masia} } @article {3638, title = {Dynamic Morphological Computation Through Damping Design of Soft Continuum Robots}, journal = {Frontiers in Robotics and AI}, year = {2019}, author = {A. Di Lallo and M. G. Catalano and M. Garabini and G. Grioli and M Gabiccini and A. Bicchi} } @article {3751, title = {Exploiting Adaptability in Soft Feet for Sensing Contact Forces}, journal = { IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters}, volume = {5}, year = {2019}, month = {11/2019}, chapter = {391}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1109/LRA.2019.2952292}, url = {https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8894422}, author = {D. Mura and C. Della Santina and C. Piazza and I. Frizza and C. Morandi and M. Garabini and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano} } @article {4218, title = {Functional linear and nonlinear brain{\textendash}heart interplay during emotional video elicitation: a maximum information coefficient study}, journal = {Entropy}, volume = {21}, year = {2019}, pages = {892}, author = {Catrambone, Vincenzo and Greco, Alberto and Scilingo, Enzo Pasquale and Valenza, Gaetano} } @article {3709, title = {Guest Editorial Neuro-Robotics Systems: Sensing, Cognition, Learning, and Control}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems }, year = {2019}, author = {Z. Li and F. Chen and A. Bicchi and Y. Sun and T. Fukuda} } @article {4221, title = {Lateralization of directional brain-heart information transfer during visual emotional elicitation}, journal = {American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology}, volume = {317}, year = {2019}, pages = {R25{\textendash}R38}, author = {Greco, Alberto and Faes, Luca and Catrambone, Vincenzo and Barbieri, Riccardo and Scilingo, Enzo Pasquale and Valenza, Gaetano} } @article {3621, title = {Learning From Humans How to Grasp: A Data-Driven Architecture for Autonomous Grasping With Anthropomorphic Soft Hands}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters}, volume = {4}, year = {2019}, month = {April}, pages = {1533-1540}, keywords = {Computer architecture, Control, Deep Learning in Robotics and Automation, Grasping, Learning for Soft Robots, Modeling, Natural Machine Motion, Neural networks, Robot sensing systems, Uncertainty, Videos}, issn = {2377-3766}, doi = {10.1109/LRA.2019.2896485}, author = {C. D. Santina and V. Arapi and G. Averta and F. Damiani and G. Fiore and A Settimi and M. G. Catalano and D. Bacciu and A. Bicchi and M. Bianchi} } @article {3643, title = {A Novel Skin-Stretch Haptic Device for Intuitive Control of Robotic Prostheses and Avatars}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters}, volume = {Volume: 4 , Issue: 2 , April 2019 }, year = {2019}, month = {01/2019}, author = {N. Colella and M. Bianchi and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi and M. G. Catalano} } @conference {3748, title = {An Objective Functional Evaluation of Myoelectrically-Controlled Hand Prostheses: A Pilot Study Using the Virtual Peg Insertion Test}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Rehabilitation Robotics (ICORR)}, year = {2019}, doi = {10.1109/ICORR.2019.8779550}, author = {C. M. Kanzler and M. G. Catalano and C. Piazza and A. Bicchi and R. Gassert and O. Lambercy} } @article {4219, title = {Predicting object-mediated gestures from brain activity: an EEG study on gender differences}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering}, volume = {27}, year = {2019}, pages = {411{\textendash}418}, author = {Catrambone, Vincenzo and Greco, Alberto and Averta, Giuseppe and Bianchi, Matteo and Valenza, Gaetano and Scilingo, Enzo Pasquale} } @article {3642, title = {Relaying the High-Frequency Contents of TactileFeedback to Robotic Prosthesis Users: Design,Filtering, Implementation, and Validation}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters}, volume = {Volume: 4 , Issue: 2 , April 2019}, year = {2019}, month = {01/2019}, author = {S. Fani and K. Di Blasio and M. Bianchi and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @article {3641, title = {A Spherical Active Joint for Humanoids and Humans}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters}, volume = {Volume: 4 , Issue: 2 , April 2019}, year = {2019}, month = {01/2019}, author = {S. Mghames and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi and G. Grioli} } @article {3677, title = {On the time-invariance properties of upper limb synergies}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering }, year = {2019}, month = {07/2019}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1109/TNSRE.2019.2918311}, url = {https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31135365}, author = {G. Averta and G. Valenza and V. Catrambone and F. Barontini and E. P. Scilingo and A. Bicchi and M. Bianchi} } @article {4217, title = {Time-resolved directional brain{\textendash}heart interplay measurement through synthetic data generation models}, journal = {Annals of biomedical engineering}, volume = {47}, year = {2019}, pages = {1479{\textendash}1489}, author = {Catrambone, Vincenzo and Greco, Alberto and Vanello, Nicola and Scilingo, Enzo Pasquale and Valenza, Gaetano} } @article {3710, title = {Touch as an auxiliary proprioceptive cue for movement control}, journal = {Indian Journal of Pure and Applied Physics }, year = {2019}, author = {A. Moscatelli and M. Bianchi and S. Ciotti and G. C. Bettelani and C. V. Parise and F. Lacquaniti and A. Bicchi} } @proceedings {3698, title = {Towards the Design of Robotic Drivers for Full-Scale Self-Driving Racing Cars}, year = {2019}, author = {D. Caporale and A Settimi and F. Massa and F. Amerotti and A. Corti and A. Fagiolini and M. Guiggiani and A. Bicchi and L. Pallottino} } @article {3760, title = {Unifying bilateral teleoperation and tele-impedance for enhanced user experience}, journal = {International Journal of Robotics Research}, year = {2019}, month = {12/2019}, type = {Journal}, abstract = {

Usability is one of the most important aspects of teleoperation. Ideally, the operator{\textquoteright}s experience should be one of complete command over the remote environment, but also be as close as possible to what s/he would have if physically present at the remote end - i.e. transparency in terms of both action and perception. These two aspects may coincide in favorable conditions, where classic approaches such as the four-channel architecture ensures transparency of the control framework. In presence of substantial delays between the user and the slave, however, the stability-performance trade-off inherent to bilateral teleoperation deteriorates not only transparency, but also command. An alternative, unilateral approach is given by tele-impedance, which controls the slave-environment interaction by measuring and remotely replicating the user{\textquoteright}s limb endpoint position and impedance. Not including force feedback to the operator, tele-impedance is absolutely robust to delays, while it completely lacks transparency.

This paper introduces a novel control framework which integrates a new, fully transparent, two-channel bilateral architecture with the tele-impedance paradigm. The result is a unified solution that mitigates problems of classical approaches, and provides the user with additional tools to modulate the slave robot{\textquoteright}s physical interaction behavior, resulting in a better operator experience in spite of time inconsistencies. The validity and effectiveness of the proposed solution is demonstrated in terms of performance in the interaction tasks, of user fatigue and overall experience.

}, keywords = {bilateral, stability, Teleoperation, transparency, usability}, doi = {10.1177/0278364919891773}, url = {https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0278364919891773}, author = {Laghi, Marco and Ajoudani, Arash and Catalano, Manuel G. and Bicchi, Antonio} } @article {3655, title = {Wearable haptic interfaces for applications in gynecologic robotic surgery: a proof of concept in robotic myomectomy.}, journal = {Journal of Robotic Surgery }, year = {2019}, author = {A. Giannini and M. Bianchi and D. Doria and S. Fani and M. Caretto and A. Bicchi and T. Simoncini} } @conference {3682, title = {Advanced grasping with the Pisa/IIT softHand}, booktitle = {Robotic Grasping and Manipulation Challenge }, year = {2018}, pages = {pp. 19-38}, author = {M. Bonilla and C. Della Santina and A. Rocchi and E. Luberto and G. Santaera and E. Farnioli and C. Piazza and F. Bonomo and A. Brando and A. Raugi and M. G. Catalano and M. Bianchi and M. Garabini and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @article {3326, title = {Decentralized Trajectory Tracking Control for Soft Robots Interacting with the Environment}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Robotics (T-RO).}, volume = {Early Access}, year = {2018}, month = {06/2018}, abstract = {

Despite the classic nature of the problem, trajectory

tracking for soft robots, i.e. robots with compliant elements

deliberately introduced in their design, still presents several

challenges. One of these is to design controllers which can

obtain sufficiently high performance while preserving the physical

characteristics intrinsic to soft robots. Indeed, classic control

schemes using high gain feedback actions fundamentally alter the

natural compliance of soft robots effectively stiffening them, thus

de facto defeating their main design purpose. As an alternative

approach, we consider here to use a low-gain feedback, while

exploiting feedforward components. In order to cope with the

complexity and uncertainty of the dynamics, we adopt a decentralized,

iteratively learned feedforward action, combined with

a locally optimal feedback control. The relative authority of the

feedback and feedforward control actions adapts with the degree

of uncertainty of the learned component. The effectiveness of the

method is experimentally verified on several robotic structures

and working conditions, including unexpected interactions with

the environment, where preservation of softness is critical for

safety and robustness.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {F. Angelini and C. Della Santina and M. Garabini and M. Bianchi and G M Gasparri and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi} } @article {3679, title = {Design and proof of concept for multi degree of freedom hydrostatically coupled dielectric elastomer actuators with roto-translational kinematics for object handling}, journal = {Smart Materials and Structures}, year = {2018}, author = {A. De Acutis and L. Calabrese and A. Bau and V. Tincani and N. M. Pugno and A. Bicchi and D. De Rossi} } @conference {3721, title = {EEG Complexity Maps to Characterise Brain Dynamics during Upper Limb Motor Imagery}, booktitle = { Proceedings of the Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, EMBS}, year = {2018}, doi = { 10.1109/EMBC.2018.8512912}, url = { https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8512912}, author = {V. Catambrone and A. Greco and G. Averta and M. Bianchi and A. Bicchi and E. P. Scilingo and G. Valenza} } @conference {3722, title = {EEG Processing to Discriminate Transitive-Intransitive Motor Imagery Tasks: Preliminary Evidences using Support Vector Machines}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, EMBS}, year = {2018}, doi = {10.1109/EMBC.2018.8512239}, url = {https://zenodo.org/record/2559406$\#$.XTbl43ux9GM}, author = {V. Catrambone and A. Greco and G. Averta and M. Bianchi and N. Vanello and A. Bicchi and G. Valenza and E. P. Scilingo} } @article {3364, title = {Efficient Walking Gait Generation via Principal Component Representation of Optimal Trajectories: Application to a Planar Biped Robot With Elastic Joints}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters}, volume = {3}, year = {2018}, pages = {2299{\textendash}2306}, abstract = {

Recently, the method of choice to exploit robot dynamics for efficient walking is numerical optimization (NO). The main drawback in NO is the computational complexity, which strongly affects the time demand of the solution. Several strategies can be used to make the optimization more treatable and to efficiently describe the solution set. In this letter, we present an algorithm to encode effective walking references, generated offline via numerical optimization, extracting a limited number of principal components and using them as a basis of optimal motions. By combining these components, a good approximation of the optimal gaits can be generated at run time. The advantages of the presented approach are discussed, and an extensive experimental validation is carried out on a planar legged robot with elastic joints. The biped thus controlled is able to start and stop walking on a treadmill, and to control its speed dynamically as the treadmill speed changes.

}, author = {G M Gasparri and S. Manara and D. Caporale and G. Averta and M. Bonilla and H. Marino and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and M. Bianchi and A. Bicchi and M. Garabini} } @conference {3723, title = {ExoSense: Measuring Manipulation in a Wearable Manner}, booktitle = {Proceedings - IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation}, year = {2018}, doi = {10.1109/ICRA.2018.8460498}, author = {E. Battaglia and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and M. Bianchi and A. Bicchi} } @article {3450, title = {Hap-Pro: a wearable haptic device for proprioceptive feedback}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering}, year = {2018}, pages = {1-1}, keywords = {haptic feedback, haptic interfaces, proprioception, Prosthetic hand, Robot sensing systems, Skin, upper extremity prosthesis, Visualization, Wheels}, issn = {0018-9294}, doi = {10.1109/TBME.2018.2836672}, author = {M. Rossi and M. Bianchi and E. Battaglia and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi} } @article {3446, title = {Humanoids at Work: The WALK-MAN Robot in a Postearthquake Scenario}, journal = {IEEE Robotics Automation Magazine}, year = {2018}, pages = {1-1}, keywords = {Buildings, Earthquakes, Hardware, Legged locomotion, Robot sensing systems, Task analysis}, issn = {1070-9932}, doi = {10.1109/MRA.2017.2788801}, author = {F. Negrello and A Settimi and D. Caporale and G. Lentini and M. Poggiani and D. Kanoulas and L. Muratore and Luberto, E. and G. Santaera and L. Ciarleglio and L. Ermini and L. Pallottino and D. G. Caldwell and N. Tsagarakis and A. Bicchi and M. Garabini and M. G. Catalano} } @conference {3720, title = {A Novel Approach to Under-Actuated Control of Fluidic Systems}, booktitle = {2018 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA)}, year = {2018}, doi = {10.1109/ICRA.2018.8460859}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=8460859\&isnumber=8460178}, author = {A. Di Lallo and M. G. Catalano and M. Garabini and G. Grioli and M. Gabiccini and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3796, title = {Optimal Active Sensing with Process and Measurement Noise}, booktitle = {2018 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA)}, year = {2018}, month = {May}, pages = {2118-2125}, abstract = {

The goal of this paper is to increase the estimation performance of an Extended Kalman Filter for a nonlinear differentially flat system by planning trajectories able to maximize the amount of information gathered by onboard sensors in presence of both process and measurement noises. In a previous work, we presented an online gradient descent method for planning optimal trajectories along which the smallest eigenvalue of the Observability Gramian (OG) is maximized. As the smallest eigenvalue of the OG is inversely proportional to the maximum estimation uncertainty, its maximization reduces the maximum estimation uncertainty of any estimation algorithm employed during motion. However, the OG does not consider the process noise that, instead, in several applications is far from being negligible. For this reason, this paper proposes a novel solution able to cope with non-negligible process noise: this is achieved by minimizing the largest eigenvalue of the a posteriori covariance matrix obtained by solving the Continuous Riccati Equation as a measure of the total available information. This minimization is expected to maximize the information gathered by the outputs while, at the same time, limiting as much as possible the negative effects of the process noise. We apply our method to a unicycle robot. The comparison between the novel method and the one of our previous work (which did not consider process noise) shows significant improvements in the obtained estimation accuracy.

}, keywords = {continuous Riccati equation, covariance matrices, eigenvalues and eigenfunctions, Estimation, estimation algorithm, gradient methods, inversely proportional, Kalman Filter, Kalman filters, largest eigenvalue, maximum estimation uncertainty, measurement noise, mobile robots, noise measurement, nonlinear differentially flat system, nonlinear filters, nonnegligible process noise, observability, observability gramian, OG, onboard sensors, online gradient descent method, optimal active sensing, optimal trajectories, optimisation, path planning, posteriori covariance matrix, Riccati equations, Robot sensing systems, Trajectory, trajectory control, unicycle robot}, doi = {10.1109/ICRA.2018.8460476}, url = {https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8460476}, author = {M. Cognetti and P Salaris and P. Robuffo Giordano} } @conference {3531, title = {A Planning and Control System for Self-Driving Racing Vehicles}, booktitle = {2018 IEEE 4th International Forum on Research and Technology for Society and Industry (RTSI)}, year = {2018}, month = {Sept}, pages = {1-6}, address = {Palermo, Italy}, doi = {10.1109/RTSI.2018.8548444}, author = {D. Caporale and A. Fagiolini and L. Pallottino and A Settimi and A. Biondo and F. Amerotti and F. Massa and S. De Caro and A. Corti and L. Venturini} } @conference {3746, title = {Preliminary Results Toward Continuous and Proportional Control of a Multi-synergistic Soft Prosthetic Hand}, booktitle = {International Conference on NeuroRehabilitation}, year = {2018}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-01845-0_15}, author = {C. Piazza and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi and L. Hargrove} } @conference {3761, title = {Shared-autonomy control for intuitive bimanual tele-manipulation}, booktitle = {2018 IEEE-RAS 18th International Conference on Humanoid Robots (Humanoids)}, year = {2018}, pages = {1{\textendash}9}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, abstract = {

Existing dual-arm teleoperation systems function on one-to-one coupling of the human and robotic arms to fully exploit the user{\textquoteright}s dexterity during bimanual tele-manipulation. While the individual coordination of the robot end-effectors can be necessary for complex and asymmetric tasks, it may result in a cumbersome user experience during symmetric bimanual tasks (e.g. manipulating and carrying objects). In this paper we propose a novel framework that includes the one-to-one direct control and a new shared autonomy strategy. The user can autonomously choose between the two, and if the new one is selected the robots move in a coordinated way, in which desired positions are extrapolated from the movements and gestures of just one users arm. These gesture commands are interpreted and handled by the control, with the purpose of unloading the users cognitive burden. Lastly, the tele-impedance paradigm, i.e., the remote control of robot impedance and position references, is applied to both controls, to improve remote physical interaction performances. The paper reports on the overall proposed architecture, its implementation and its preliminary validation trough a multi subject experimental campaign.

}, doi = {10.1109/HUMANOIDS.2018.8625047}, url = {https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8625047}, author = {Laghi, Marco and Maimeri, Michele and Marchand, Mathieu and Leparoux, Clara and Catalano, Manuel and Ajoudani, Arash and Bicchi, Antonio} } @article {3448, title = {Simplifying Telerobotics: Wearability and Teleimpedance Improves Human-Robot Interactions in Teleoperation}, journal = {IEEE Robotics Automation Magazine}, volume = {25}, year = {2018}, month = {March}, pages = {77-88}, keywords = {application fields, augmented teleoperation, Autonomous robots, communication, effective design, effective simplification, environmental constraints, feedback, Force feedback, fundamental requirement, haptic feedback devices, haptic interfaces, human workspace, human-robot interaction, human-robot interactions, human-robot interfaces, ideal scenario, integrated approach, integrated interface, integrated system, interaction forces, intuitive information exchange, Kinematics, KUKA lightweight robotic arm, lightweight design, manipulators, master, position control, reduced versions, Robot sensing systems, robotic devices, robotic hand-arm system, robotic manipulator, robotic teleoperation, simplified information exchange, slave robot, stiffness control, synergy, Task analysis, teleimpedance techniques, Telemedicine, teleoperator system, telerobotics, TI control, vision, wearability, wearable feedback, wearable hand/arm}, issn = {1070-9932}, doi = {10.1109/MRA.2017.2741579}, author = {S. Fani and S. Ciotti and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and A. Tognetti and G. Valenza and A. Ajoudani and M. Bianchi} } @article {3697, title = {The SoftHand Pro: Functional evaluation of a novel, flexible, and robust myoelectric prosthesis}, journal = {PLOS One}, year = {2018}, author = {S. B. Godfrey and K. Zhao and A. Theuer and M. G. Catalano and M. Bianchi and R. Breighner and D. Bhaskaran and R. Lennon and G. Grioli and M. Santello and A. Bicchi and K. Andrews} } @conference {3747, title = {The softpro project: Synergy-based open-source technologies for prosthetics and rehabilitation}, booktitle = {International Symposium on Wearable Robotics}, year = {2018}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-01887-0_71}, author = {C. Piazza and M. G. Catalano and M. Bianchi and E. Ricciardi and D. Pratichizzo and S. Haddadin and Luft, A. R. L. and O. Lambercy and R. Gassert and E. Jakubowitz and H. Van Der Kooij and F. Tonis and F. Bonomo and B. de Jonge and T. Ward and K. Zhao and M. Santello and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3683, title = {Touch-Based Grasp Primitives for Soft Hands: Applications to Human-to-Robot Handover Tasks and Beyond}, booktitle = {2018 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA)}, year = {2018}, author = {M. Bianchi and G. Averta and E. Battaglia and C. Rosales and M. Bonilla and A. Tondo and M. Poggiani and G. Santaera and S. Ciotti and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi} } @article {3366, title = {Towards Dexterous Manipulation with Augmented Adaptive Synergies: the Pisa/IIT SoftHand 2}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Robotics}, volume = {Early Access}, year = {2018}, month = {06/2018 }, type = {Regular Paper}, abstract = {

In the recent years, a clear trend towards simplification emerged in the development of robotic hands. The use of soft robotic approaches has been a useful tool in this prospective, enabling complexity reduction by embodying part of grasping intelligence in the hand mechanical structure. Several hand prototypes designed according to such principles have accomplished good results in terms of grasping simplicity, robustness, and reliability. Among them, the Pisa/IIT SoftHand demonstrated the feasibility of a large variety of grasping tasks, by means of only one actuator and an opportunely designed tendon driven differential mechanism. However, the use of a single degree of actuation prevents the execution of more complex tasks, like fine pre-shaping of fingers and in-hand manipulation. While possible in theory, simply doubling the Pisa/IIT SoftHand actuation system has several disadvantages, e.g. in terms of space and mechanical complexity. To overcome these limitations we propose a novel design framework for tendon driven mechanisms, where the main idea is to turn transmission friction from a disturbance into a design tool. In this way the degrees of actuation can be doubled with little additional complexity.

By leveraging on this idea we design a novel robotic hand, the Pisa/IIT SoftHand 2. We present here its design, modeling, control, and experimental validation. The hand demonstrates that by opportunely combining only two degrees of actuation with hand softness, a large variety of grasping and manipulation tasks can be performed only relying on the intelligence embodied in the mechanism. Examples include rotating objects with different shapes, opening a jar, pouring coffee from a glass.

}, issn = {Print 1552-3098; Onlline 1941-0468}, author = {C. Della Santina and C. Piazza and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi} } @article {3750, title = {Underactuated robotic hand}, number = {15/772368}, year = {2018}, month = {11/01}, url = {https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/c3/76/f4/3f31e20b15ad53/US20180311827A1.pdf}, author = {A. Bicchi and C. Della Santina and M. G. Catalano and C. Piazza and G. Grioli and A. Brando} } @inbook {3381, title = {WALK-MAN Humanoid Platform}, booktitle = {The DARPA Robotics Challenge Finals: Humanoid Robots To The Rescue}, volume = {121}, number = {The DARPA Robotics Challenge Finals: Humanoid Robots To The Rescue}, year = {2018}, pages = {495{\textendash}548}, publisher = {Springer}, organization = {Springer}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-74666-1_13}, author = {N. G. Tsagarakis and F. Negrello and M. Garabini and W. Choi and L. Baccelliere and V. G. Loc and J. Noorden and M. G. Catalano and M. Ferrati and L. Muratore and P. Kryczka and E. Mingo Hoffman and A Settimi and A. Rocchi and A. Margan and S. Cordasco and D. Kanoulas and A. Cardellino and L. Natale and H. Dallali and J. Malzahn and N. Kashiri and V. Varricchio and L. Pallottino and C. Pavan and J. Lee and A. Ajoudani and D. G. Caldwell and A. Bicchi} } @article {3217, title = {W-FYD: a Wearable Fabric-based Display for Haptic Multi-Cue Delivery and Tactile Augmented Reality}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Haptics}, volume = {11}, year = {2018}, pages = {304 - 316}, chapter = {304}, abstract = {

Despite the importance of softness, there is no evidence of wearable haptic systems able to deliver controllable softness cues. Here, we present the Wearable Fabric Yielding Display (W-FYD), a fabric-based display for multi-cue delivery that can be worn on user{\textquoteright}s finger and enables, for the first time, both active and passive softness exploration. It can also induce a sliding effect under the finger-pad. A given stiffness profile can be obtained by modulating the stretching state of the fabric through two motors. Furthermore, a lifting mechanism allows to put the fabric in contact with the user{\textquoteright}s finger-pad, to enable passive softness rendering. In this paper, we describe the architecture of W-FYD, and a thorough characterization of its stiffness workspace, frequency response and softness rendering capabilities. We also computed device Just Noticeable Difference in both active and passive exploratory conditions, for linear and non-linear stiffness rendering as well as for sliding direction perception. The effect of device weight was also considered. Furthermore, performance of participants and their subjective quantitative evaluation in detecting sliding direction and softness discrimination tasks are reported. Finally, applications of W-FYD in tactile augmented reality for open palpation are discussed, opening interesting perspectives in many fields of human-machine interaction.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, issn = {1939-1412}, doi = {10.1109/TOH.2017.2708717}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8003491/}, author = {S. Fani and S. Ciotti and E. Battaglia and A. Moscatelli and M. Bianchi} } @article {2814, title = {Asymmetric Bimanual Coordinate Control of Dual-Arm Exoskeleton Robots for Human Cooperative Manipulations}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Robotics}, volume = {34}, year = {2017}, month = {11/2017}, chapter = {264}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1109/TRO.2017.2765334}, url = {https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8103340}, author = {Z. Li and Z. Chen and A. Ajoudani and C. Yang and C. Su and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3222, title = {Characterization of Hand Movements using a Sensing Glove in Hand Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the second International Conference on Medical Information and Bioengineering}, year = {2017}, abstract = {

The past thirty years have seen increasingly rapid advances in the field of laparoscopic surgery, in part because of the use of robots. A well-known example is the da Vinci surgical system. However, far too little attention has been paid to Hand Assisted Laparoscopic Surgery (HALS), a surgery in which the surgeon introduces the non-dominant hand into the abdomen of the patient. The risk of collision between the hand of the surgeon and the tool moved by the robot is the reason why these robots for laparoscopic surgery are not appropriate for HALS. On the other hand, in recent years, there has been an increasing interest in wearables, which have been introduced in our daily life. This interest and the lack of surgery robots for HALS are the reasons to develop a sensing glove which co-works whit a collaborative robot in this kind of surgery. The aim of this paper is to study the use of a sensing glove which will provide information of the movements of the surgeon{\quotesinglbase}{\"A}{\^o}s hand to the collaborative robot. This information determinates the actions that the robot will carry on. The first step was to define different movements of the hand which could be identified. An algorithm identifies these movements using the data given by the sensing glove. For the purpose of algorithm accuracy measurement, 4 persons wearing the sensing glove made a sequence with different movements. The evidence from this study suggests that a sensing glove can be used to send information of the movements of the surgeon{\quotesinglbase}{\"A}{\^o}s hand to a collaborative robot during a HALS.

}, author = {L. Santos and N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti and Gonzales, R. and J. C. Fraile and J. P. Turiel and E. De La Fuente} } @article {3119, title = {Controlling Soft Robots: Balancing Feedback and Feedforward Elements}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Magazine}, volume = {24}, year = {2017}, note = {

This work is supported by European Commission grant H2020-ICT-645599 ({\textquotedblleft}SOMA{\textquotedblright}: SOft Manipulation) and European Research Council Advanced grant 291166 ({\textquotedblleft}SoftHands{\textquotedblright}).

}, month = {05/2017}, pages = {75 - 83}, abstract = {

Soft robots (SRs) represent one of the most significant recent evolutions in robotics. Designed to embody safe and natural behaviors, they rely on compliant physical structures purposefully designed to embody desirable and sometimes variable impedance characteristics. This article discusses the problem of controlling SRs. We start by observing that most of the standard methods of robotic control{\textemdash}e.g., high-gain robust control, feedback linearization, backstepping, and active impedance control{\textemdash}effectively fight against or even completely cancel the physical dynamics of the system, replacing them with a desired model. This defeats the purpose of introducing physical compliance. After all, what is the point of building soft actuators if we then make them stiff by control? An alternative to such approaches can be conceived by observing humans, who can obtain good motion accuracy and repeatability while maintaining the intrinsic softness of their bodies. In this article, we show that an anticipative model of human motor control, using a feedforward action combined with low-gain feedback, can be used to achieve human-like behavior. We present an implementation of such an idea that uses iterative learning control. Finally, we present the experimental results of the application of such learned anticipative control to a physically compliant robot. The control application achieves the desired behavior much better than a classical feedback controller used for comparison.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1070-9932}, doi = {10.1109/MRA.2016.2636360}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?arnumber=7930438}, author = {C. Della Santina and M. Bianchi and G. Grioli and F. Angelini and M. G. Catalano and M. Garabini and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3218, title = {Design and characterization of a novel high-compliance spring for robots with soft joints}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Advanced Intelligent Mechatronics (AIM)}, year = {2017}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Munich, Germany, 3-7 July 2017}, abstract = {

Low stiffness elements have a number of applications in Soft Robotics, from Series Elastic Actuators (SEA) to torque sensors for compliant systems. In its general formulation, the design problem of elastic components is complex and depends on several variables: material properties, load range, shape factor and size constraints. Consequently, most of the spring designs presented in literature are based on heuristics or are optimized for specific working conditions. This work presents the design study and characterization of a scalable spoked elastic element with hinge tip constraints. We compared the proposed design with three existing spring principles, showing that the spoked solution is the convenient option for low-stiffness and low shape factor elastic elements. Therefore, a design analysis on the main scaling parameters of the spoked spring, namely number of spokes and type of constraints, is presented. Finally, an experimental characterization has been conducted on physical prototypes. The agreement among simulations and experimental results demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed concept.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/AIM.2017.8014029}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8014029/}, author = {F. Negrello and M. G. Catalano and M. Garabini and M. Poggiani and D. G. Caldwell and N. G. Tsagarakis and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3219, title = {Design, control and validation of the variable stiffness exoskeleton FLExo}, booktitle = {International Conference on Rehabilitation Robotics (ICORR)}, year = {2017}, pages = {539 - 546}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {London, UK, 17-20 July 2017}, abstract = {

In this paper we present the design of a one degree of freedom assistive platform to augment the strength of upper limbs. The core element is a variable stiffness actuator, closely reproducing the behavior of a pair of antagonistic muscles. The novelty introduced by this device is the analogy of its control parameters with those of the human muscle system, the threshold lengths. The analogy can be obtained from a proper tuning of the mechanical system parameters. Based on this, the idea is to control inputs by directly mapping the estimation of the muscle activations, e.g. via ElectroMyoGraphic(EMG) sensors, on the exoskeleton. The control policy resulting from this mapping acts in feedforward in a way to exploit the muscle-like dynamics of the mechanical device. Thanks to the particular structure of the actuator, the exoskeleton joint stiffness naturally results from that mapping. The platform as well as the novel control idea have been experimentally validated and the results show a substantial reduction of the subject muscle effort.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ICORR.2017.8009304}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/8009304/}, author = {S. Mghames and M. Laghi and C. Della Santina and M. Garabini and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3106, title = {Design of an Under-Actuated Wrist Based on Adaptive Synergies}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference of Robotics and Automation, ICRA2017}, year = {2017}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Singapore, 29 May-3 June 2017}, abstract = {

An effective robotic wrist represents a key enabling element in robotic manipulation, especially in prosthetics. In this paper, we propose an under-actuated wrist system, which is also adaptable and allows to implement different under-actuation schemes. Our approach leverages upon the idea of soft synergies - in particular the design method of adaptive synergies - as it derives from the field of robot hand design. First we introduce the design principle and its implementation and function in a configurable test bench prototype, which can be used to demonstrate the feasibility of our idea. Furthermore, we report on results from preliminary experiments with humans, aiming to identify the most probable wrist pose during the pre-grasp phase in activities of daily living. Based on these outcomes, we calibrate our wrist prototype accordingly and demonstrate its effectiveness to accomplish grasping and manipulation tasks.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ICRA.2017.7989789}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7989789/}, author = {S. Casini and V. Tincani and G. Averta and M. Poggiani and C. Della Santina and E. Battaglia and M. G. Catalano and M. Bianchi and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3387, title = {Design of an under-actuated wrist based on adaptive synergies}, booktitle = {Robotics and Automation (ICRA), 2017 IEEE International Conference on}, year = {2017}, pages = {6679{\textendash}6686}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, abstract = {

An effective robotic wrist represents a key en- abling element in robotic manipulation, especially in prosthetics. In this paper, we propose an under-actuated wrist system, which is also adaptable and allows to implement different under- actuation schemes. Our approach leverages upon the idea of soft synergies - in particular the design method of adaptive synergies - as it derives from the field of robot hand design. First we intro- duce the design principle and its implementation and function in a configurable test bench prototype, which can be used to demonstrate the feasibility of our idea. Furthermore, we report on results from preliminary experiments with humans, aiming to identify the most probable wrist pose during the pre-grasp phase in activities of daily living. Based on these outcomes, we calibrate our wrist prototype accordingly and demonstrate its effectiveness to accomplish grasping and manipulation tasks.

}, author = {S. Casini and V. Tincani and G. Averta and M. Poggiani and C. Della Santina and E. Battaglia and M. G. Catalano and M. Bianchi and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @article {3225, title = {Development of a High-Speed Current Injection and Voltage Measurement System for Electrical Impedance Tomography-Based Stretchable Sensors}, journal = {TECHNOLOGIES}, volume = {5}, year = {2017}, keywords = {conductive fabric, EIT, pressure sensor, stretchable, wearable}, doi = {10.3390/technologies5030048}, url = {http://www.mdpi.com/2227-7080/5/3/48}, author = {S. Russo and S. Nefti-meziani and N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti} } @conference {3141, title = {Distributed Task-priority Based Control in Area Coverage \& Adaptive Sampling}, booktitle = {MTS/IEEE Oceans 2017}, year = {2017}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Aberdeen, Scotland, June 2017}, abstract = {

The paper presents the first simulative results and algorithmic developments of the task-priority based control applied to a distributed sampling network in an area coverage or adaptive sampling mission scenario. The proposed approach allowing the fulfilment of a chain of tasks with decreasing priority each of which directly related to both operability and safety aspects of the entire mission. The task-priority control is presented both in the centralized and decentralized implementations showing a comparison of performance. Finally simulations of the area coverage mission scenario are provided showing the effectiveness of the proposed approach.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {T. Fabbri and E. Simetti and G. Casalino and L. Pallottino and A. Caiti} } @conference {3220, title = {Estimating Contact Forces from Postural Measures in a class of Under-Actuated Robotic Hands}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference of Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS2017)}, year = {2017}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Vancouver, Canada, September 24{\textendash}28, 2017}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {C. Della Santina and C. Piazza and G. Santaera and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3365, title = {From humans to robots: The role of cutaneous impairment in human environmental constraint exploitation to inform the design of robotic hands}, booktitle = {Ultra Modern Telecommunications and Control Systems and Workshops (ICUMT), 2017 9th International Congress on}, year = {2017}, note = {

This work has been awarded with the "Best Student Paper Award" and the "Best Paper in Session - Robotics"

}, pages = {179{\textendash}184}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Munich}, abstract = {

Human hands are capable of a variety of movements, thanks to their extraordinary biomechanical structure and rely- ing on the richness of human tactile information. Recently, soft robotic hands have opened exciting possibilities and, at the same time, new issues related to planning and control. In this work, we propose to study human strategies in environmental constraint exploitation to grasp objects from a table. We have considered both the case where participants{\textquoteright} fingertips were free and with a rigid shell worn on them to understand the role of cutaneous touch. Main kinematic strategies were quantified and classified in an unsupervised manner. The principal strategies appear to be consistent in both experimental conditions, although cluster cardinality differs. Furthermore, as expected, tactile feedback improves both grasp precision and quality performance. Results opens interesting perspective for sensing and control of soft manipulators.

}, author = {G. Averta and C. Della Santina and E. Battaglia and S. Ciotti and V. Arapi and S. Fani and M. Bianchi} } @article {2841, title = {An Integrated Approach to Characterize the Behavior of a Human Fingertip in Contact with a Silica Window}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Haptics}, volume = {10}, year = {2017}, month = {01/2017}, pages = {123-129}, abstract = {

Understanding the mechanisms of human tactual perception represents a challenging task in haptics and humanoid robotics. A classic approach to tackle this issue is to accurately and exhaustively characterize the mechanical behavior of human fingertip. The output of this characterization can then be exploited to drive the design of numerical models, which can be used to investigate in depth the mechanisms of human sensing. In this work, we present a novel integrated measurement technique and experimental set up for in vivo characterization of the deformation of the human fingertip at contact, in terms of contact area, force, deformation, and pressure distribution. The device presented here compresses the participant{\textquoteright}s fingertip against a flat surface, while the aforementioned measurements are acquired and experimental parameters such as velocity, finger orientation, and displacement (indentation) controlled. Experimental outcomes are then compared and integrated with the output of a 3D finite element (FE) model of the human fingertip, built upon existing validated models. The agreement between numerical and experimental data represents a validation for our approach.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, issn = {1939-1412}, doi = { 10.1109/TOH.2016.2614679}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?arnumber=7579582}, author = {M. L. D{\textquoteright}Angelo and F. Cannella and M. Bianchi and M. D{\textquoteright}Imperio and E. Battaglia and M. Poggiani and G. Rossi and A. Bicchi and D. G. Caldwell} } @article {3002, title = {On the Minimum-Time Control Problem for Differential Drive Robots with Bearing Constraints}, journal = {Journal of Optimization Theory and Applications}, year = {2017}, month = {04/2017}, pages = {1-27}, abstract = {

This paper presents a study of analysis of minimum-time trajectories for a differential drive robot equipped with a fixed and limited field-of-view camera, which must keep a given landmark in view during maneuvers. Previous works have considered the same physical problem and provided a complete analysis/synthesis for the problem of determining the shortest paths. The main difference in the two cost functions (length vs. time) lays on the rotation on the spot. Indeed, this maneuver has zero cost in terms of length and hence leads to a 2D shortest path synthesis. On the other hand, in case of minimum time, the synthesis depends also on the orientations of the vehicle. In other words, the not zero cost of the rotation on the spot maneuvers leads to a 3D minimum-time synthesis. Moreover, the shortest paths have been obtained by exploiting the geometric properties of the extremal arcs, i.e.,\ straight lines, rotations on the spot, logarithmic spirals and involute of circles. Conversely, in terms of time, even if the extremal arcs of the minimum-time control problem are exactly the same, the geometric properties of these arcs change, leading to a completely different analysis and characterization of optimal paths. In this paper, after proving the existence of optimal trajectories and showing the extremal arcs of the problem at hand, we provide the control laws that steer the vehicle along these arcs and the time-cost along each of them. Moreover, this being a crucial step toward numerical implementation, optimal trajectories are proved to be characterized by a finite number of switching points between different extremal arcs, i.e.,\ the concatenations of extremal arcs with infinitely many junction times are shown to violate the optimality conditions.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = { 10.1007/s10957-017-1110-7}, url = {http://download.springer.com/static/pdf/641/art\%253A10.1007\%252Fs10957-017-1110-7.pdf?originUrl=http\%3A\%2F\%2Flink.springer.com\%2Farticle\%2F10.1007\%2Fs10957-017-1110-7\&token2=exp=1492507070~acl=\%2Fstatic\%2Fpdf\%2F641\%2Fart\%25253A10.1007\%25252Fs10957-017-111}, author = {A. Cristofaro and Salaris, P. and L. Pallottino and Giannoni, F. and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3158, title = {Modular One-to-many Clutchable Actuator for a Soft Elbow Exosuit}, booktitle = { International Conference on Rehabilitation Robotics (ICORR 2017)}, year = {2017}, month = {07/2017}, pages = {1679-1685}, address = {London, UK, July 17 - 20, 2017}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ICORR.2017.8009489}, author = {M. Canesi and M. Xiloyannis and A. Ajoudani and A. Bicchi and L. Masia} } @article {3223, title = {A Multimodal Perception Framework for Users Emotional State Assessment in Social Robotics}, journal = {FUTURE INTERNET}, volume = {9}, year = {2017}, keywords = {human-robot interaction, multimodality, perception framework, physiological signal acquisition, social robotics}, doi = {10.3390/fi9030042}, author = {Cominelli, L. and N. Carbonaro and D. Mazzei and R. Garofalo and A. Tognetti and D. De Rossi} } @conference {3727, title = {Muscle fatigue assessment through electrodermal activity analysis during isometric contraction}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, EMBS}, year = {2017}, doi = {10.1109/EMBC.2017.8036846}, author = {A. Greco and A. Guidi and F. Felici and A. Leo and E. Ricciardi and M. Bianchi and A. Bicchi and L. Citi and G. Valenza and E. P. Scilingo} } @article {3216, title = {Postural Hand Synergies during Environmental Constraint Exploitation}, journal = {Fronters in Neurorobotics}, year = {2017}, month = {08/2017}, abstract = {

Humans are able to intuitively exploit the shape of an object and environmental constraints to achieve stable grasps and perform dexterous manipulations. In doing that, a vast range of kinematic strategies can be observed. However, in this work we formulate the hypothesis that such ability can be described in terms of a synergistic behavior in the generation of hand postures, i.e., using a reduced set of commonly used kinematic patterns. This is in analogy with previous studies showing the presence of such behavior in different tasks, such as grasping. We investigated this hypothesis in experiments performed by six subjects, who were asked to grasp objects from a flat surface. We quantitatively characterized hand posture behavior from a kinematic perspective, i.e., the hand joint angles, in both pre-shaping and during the interaction with the environment. To determine the role of tactile feedback, we repeated the same experiments but with subjects wearing a rigid shell on the fingertips to reduce cutaneous afferent inputs. Results show the persistence of at least two postural synergies in all the considered experimental conditions and phases. Tactile impairment does not alter significantly the first two synergies, and contact with the environment generates a change only for higher order Principal Components. A good match also arises between the first synergy found in our analysis and the first synergy of grasping as quantified by previous work. The present study is motivated by the interest of learning from the human example, extracting lessons that can be applied in robot design and control. Thus, we conclude with a discussion on implications for robotics of our findings.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.3389/fnbot.2017.00041}, url = {https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnbot.2017.00041/full}, author = {C. Della Santina and M. Bianchi and G. Averta and S. Ciotti and V. Arapi and S. Fani and E. Battaglia and M. G. Catalano and M. Santello and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3215, title = {Preliminary results toward a naturally controlled multi-synergistic prosthetic hand}, booktitle = {International Conference on Rehabilitation Robotics (ICORR)}, year = {2017}, abstract = {

Robotic hands embedding human motor control principles in their mechanical design are getting increasing interest thanks to their simplicity and robustness, combined with good performance. Another key aspect of these hands is that humans can use them very effectively thanks to the similarity of their behavior with real hands. Nevertheless, controlling more than one degree of actuation remains a challenging task. In this paper, we take advantage of these characteristics in a multi-synergistic prosthesis. We propose an integrated setup composed of Pisa/IIT SoftHand 2 and a control strategy which simultaneously and proportionally maps the human hand movements to the robotic hand. The control technique is based on a combination of non-negative matrix factorization and linear regression algorithms. It also features a real-time continuous posture compensation of the electromyographic signals based on an IMU. The algorithm is tested on five healthy subjects through an experiment in a virtual environment. In a separate experiment, the efficacy of the posture compensation strategy is evaluated on five healthy subjects and, finally, the whole setup is successfully tested in performing realistic daily life activities.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, isbn = {978-1-5386-2296-4}, doi = {10.1109/ICORR.2017.8009437}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8009437/}, author = {M. Rossi and C. Della Santina and C. Piazza and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi} } @article {3224, title = {A Quantitative Evaluation of Drive Pattern Selection for Optimizing EIT-Based Stretchable Sensors}, journal = {SENSORS}, volume = {17}, year = {2017}, abstract = {

Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) is a medical imaging technique that has been recently used to realize stretchable pressure sensors. In this method, voltage measurements are taken at electrodes placed at the boundary of the sensor and are used to reconstruct an image of the applied touch pressure points. The drawback with EIT-based sensors, however, is their low spatial resolution due to the ill-posed nature of the EIT reconstruction. In this paper, we show our performance evaluation of different EIT drive patterns, specifically strategies for electrode selection when performing current injection and voltage measurements. We compare voltage data with Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and Boundary Voltage Changes (BVC), and study image quality with Size Error (SE), Position Error (PE) and Ringing (RNG) parameters, in the case of one-point and two-point simultaneous contact locations. The study shows that, in order to improve the performance of EIT based sensors, the electrode selection strategies should dynamically change correspondingly to the location of the input stimuli. In fact, the selection of one drive pattern over another can improve the target size detection and position accuracy up to 0.04. and 0.18, respectively.

}, keywords = {conductive fabric, inverse problem, performance parameters, stretchable sensor}, doi = {10.3390/s17091999}, url = {http://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/17/9/1999/htm}, author = {S. Russo and S. Nefti-meziani and N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti} } @article {2875, title = {The Quest for Natural Machine Motion: An Open Platform to Fast-Prototyping Articulated Soft Robots}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Magazine }, volume = {24}, year = {2017}, note = {

Open access

e wish to thank Samuele Batazzi, Fabio Bonomo, Alberto
Brando, Andrea Di Basco, Tommaso Pardi, Riccardo Persichi-
ni, and Alessandro Raugi for their valuable support in the
development of the hardware prototype. This work was sup-
ported by SOFTPRO (grant 688857) and SOMA (grant
645599){\textemdash}projects of the European Commission{\textquoteright}s Horizon
2020 research program{\textemdash}and by Walk-Man grant 611832.
Support also came from the European Research Council
under an Advanced Grant for {\textquotedblleft}SoftHands: A Theory of Soft
Synergies for a New Generation of Artificial Hands{\textquotedblright} (grant
ERC-291166).
}, pages = {48 - 56}, abstract = {
Soft robots are one of the most significant recent evolutions in robotics. They rely on compliant physical structures purposefully designed to embody desired characteristics. Since their introduction, they have shown remarkable applicability in overcoming their rigid counterparts in such areas as interaction with humans, adaptability, energy efficiency, and maximization of peak performance. Nonetheless, we believe
that research on novel soft robot applications is still slowed by the difficulty in obtaining or developing a working soft robot structure to explore novel applications.
In this article, we present the Natural Machine Motion Initiative (NMMI), a modular open platform that aims to provide the scientific community with tools for fast and easy prototyping of articulated soft robots. Such a platform is composed of three main open hardware modules: the Qbmoves variable-stiffness actuators (VSAs) to build the main robotic structure, soft end effectors (EEs) to interact with the world, and a pool of application-specific add-ons. We also discuss many novel uses of the platform to rapidly prototype (RP) and test new robotic structures with original soft capabilities, and we propose NMMI- based experiments.
}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1070-9932 }, doi = {10.1109/MRA.2016.2636366}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?arnumber=7857692}, author = {C. Della Santina and C. Piazza and Gasparri, G. M. and M. Bonilla and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and M. Garabini and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3121, title = {The Rice Haptic Rocker: skin stretch haptic feedback with the Pisa/IIT SoftHand }, booktitle = {IEEE World Haptics Conference}, year = {2017}, note = {

The authors gratefully acknowledge Matteo Rossi for his valuable advice and Mikaela Juzswik for her unique contribution in the physical realization of some of the equipment used in the experiments. This work was partially supported by the European Community funded project WEARHAP (contract 601165), by the European Commission project (Horizon 2020 research program) SOFTPRO (no. 688857), by the ERC Advanced Grant no. 291166 SoftHands and by the NSF grant IIS-1065497.

}, month = {06/2017}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {F{\"u}rstenfeldbruck (Munich), Germany, June 6-9, 2017}, abstract = {

Myoelectric prostheses have seen increased application in clinical practice and research, due to their potential for good functionality and versatility. Yet, myoelectric prostheses still suffer from a lack of intuitive control and haptic feedback, which can frustrate users and lead to abandonment. To address this problem, we propose to convey proprioceptive information for a prosthetic hand with skin stretch using the Rice Haptic Rocker. This device was integrated with the myo-controlled version of Pisa/IIT SoftHand and a size discrimination test with 18 able bodied subjects was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Results show that the Rice Haptic Rocker can be successfully used to convey proprioceptive information. A Likert survey was also presented to the experiment participants, who evaluated the integrated setup as easy to use and effective in conveying proprioception.

}, keywords = {Haptics}, author = {E. Battaglia and J. P. Clark and M. Bianchi and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi and M. K. O{\textquoteright}Malley} } @article {3725, title = {SoftHand at the CYBATHLON: A user{\textquoteright}s experience}, journal = {JOURNAL OF NEUROENGINEERING AND REHABILITATION}, year = {2017}, doi = {10.1186/s12984-017-0334-y}, author = {S. B. Godfrey and M. Rossi and C. Piazza and M. G. Catalano and M. Bianchi and G. Grioli and K. Zhao and A. Bicchi} } @article {3258, title = {The SoftHand Pro-H: A Hybrid Body-Controlled, Electrically Powered Hand Prosthesis for Daily Living and Working }, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Magazine}, year = {2017}, note = {

This work was supported by the European Commission project (Horizon 2020 research program) SOFTPRO 688857, the European Research Council under the Advanced Grant SoftHands {\textquotedblleft}A Theory of Soft Synergies for a New Generation of Artificial Hands,{\textquotedblright} ERC-291166, and the Proof of Concept Project SoftHand Pro-H, ERC-2016-PoC 727536.\ 

}, month = {11/2017}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, issn = {1070-9932}, doi = {10.1109/MRA.2017.2751662}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?arnumber=8110634}, author = {C. Piazza and M. G. Catalano and S. B. Godfrey and M. Rossi and G. Grioli and M. Bianchi and K. Zhao and A. Bicchi} } @inbook {3221, title = {Strain and angular sensing fabrics for human motion analysis in daily life}, booktitle = {Smart textiles : fundamentals, design, and interaction}, year = {2017}, pages = {49{\textendash}70}, publisher = {Springer International Publishing}, organization = {Springer International Publishing}, address = {Dordrecht}, author = {F. Lorussi and N. Carbonaro and D. De Rossi and A. Tognetti} } @conference {3726, title = {Synergy-driven performance enhancement of vision-based 3D hand pose reconstruction}, booktitle = {Wireless mobile communication and healthcare : 6th International conference, MobiHealth 2016, Milan, Italy, November 14-16, 2016, Proceedings}, year = {2017}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-58877-3_42}, author = {S. Ciotti and E. Battaglia and I. Oikonomidis and A. Makris and A. Tsoli and A. Bicchi and A. A. Agyros and M. Bianchi} } @article {3226, title = {Systematic Review of fMRI Compatible Devices: Design and Testing Criteria}, journal = {ANNALS OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING}, year = {2017}, keywords = {Biomedical Engineering, Compatibility, fMRI, Mechatronic devices, Safety}, doi = {10.1007/s10439-017-1853-1}, url = {http://link.springer.com/journal/volumesAndIssues/10439}, author = {V. Hartwig and N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti and N. Vanello} } @conference {3122, title = {Tactile Slip and Hand Displacement: Bending Hand Motion with Tactile Illusions}, booktitle = {IEEE World Haptic Conference}, year = {2017}, note = {

\ This work is supported in part by the European Research Council under the Advanced Grant SoftHands {\textquotedblleft}A Theory of Soft Synergies for a New Generation of Artificial Hands{\textquotedblright} no. ERC-291166, by the EU H2020 project {\textquotedblleft}SOFTPRO: Synergy-based Open-source Foundations and Technologies for Prosthetics and RehabilitatiOn{\textquotedblright} (no. 688857) and by the EU FP7 project (no. 601165), {\textquotedblleft}WEARable HAPtics for Humans and Robots (WEARHAP){\textquotedblright}. We thank Priscilla Balestrucci and Colleen P. Ryan for helpful comments and suggestions.

}, month = {06/2017}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {F{\"u}rstenfeldbruck (Munich), Germany, June 6-9, 2017}, abstract = {

Touch provides an important cue to perceive the physical properties of the external objects. Recent studies showed that tactile sensation also contributes to our sense of hand position and displacement in perceptual tasks. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that, sliding our hand over a stationary surface, tactile motion may provide a feedback for guiding hand trajectory. We asked participants to touch a plate having parallel ridges at different orientations and to perform a self-paced, straight movement of the hand. In our daily-life experience, tactile slip motion is equal and opposite to hand motion. Here, we used a well-established perceptual illusion to dissociate, in a controlled manner, the two motion estimates. According to previous studies, this stimulus produces a bias in the perceived direction of tactile motion, predicted by tactile flow model. We showed a systematic deviation in the movement of the hand towards a direction opposite to the one predicted by tactile flow, supporting the hypothesis that touch contributes to motor control of the hand. We suggested a model where the perceived hand motion is equal to a weighted sum of the estimate from classical proprioceptive cues (e.g., from musculoskeletal system) and the estimate from tactile slip.

}, keywords = {Haptics}, author = {M. Bianchi and A. Moscatelli and S. Ciotti and G. C. Bettelani and F. Fioretti and F. Lacquaniti and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3156, title = {Tele-Impedance with Force Feedback under Communication Time Delay}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference of Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS2017)}, year = {2017}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Vancouver, Canada, September 24{\textendash}28, 2017}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {M. Laghi and A. Ajoudani and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi} } @article {3137, title = {WALK-MAN: A High-Performance Humanoid Platform for Realistic Environments}, journal = {Journal of Field Robotics}, volume = {34}, year = {2017}, month = {06/2017}, pages = {1 - 34}, abstract = {

In this work, we present WALK-MAN, a humanoid platform that has been developed to operate in realistic unstructured environment, and demonstrate new skills including powerful manipulation, robust balanced locomotion, high-strength capabilities, and physical sturdiness. To enable these capabilities, WALK-MAN design and actuation are based on the most recent advancements of series elastic actuator drives with unique performance features that differentiate the robot from previous state-of-the-art compliant actuated robots. Physical interaction performance is benefited by both active and passive adaptation, thanks to WALK-MAN actuation that combines customized high-performance modules with tuned torque/velocity curves and transmission elasticity for high-speed adaptation response and motion reactions to disturbances. WALK-MAN design also includes innovative design optimization features that consider the selection of kinematic structure and the placement of the actuators with the body structure to maximize the robot performance. Physical robustness is ensured with the integration of elastic transmission, proprioceptive sensing, and control. The WALK-MAN hardware was designed and built in 11 months, and the prototype of the robot was ready four months before DARPA Robotics Challenge (DRC) Finals. The motion generation of WALK-MAN is based on the unified motion-generation framework of whole-body locomotion and manipulation (termed loco-manipulation). WALK-MAN is able to execute simple loco-manipulation behaviors synthesized by combining different primitives defining the behavior of the center of gravity, the motion of the hands, legs, and head, the body attitude and posture, and the constrained body parts such as joint limits and contacts. The motion-generation framework including the specific motion modules and software architecture is discussed in detail. A rich perception system allows the robot to perceive and generate 3D representations of the environment as well as detect contacts and sense physical interaction force and moments. The operator station that pilots use to control the robot provides a rich pilot interface with different control modes and a number of teleoperated or semiautonomous command features. The capability of the robot and the performance of the individual motion control and perception modules were validated during the DRC in which the robot was able to demonstrate exceptional physical resilience and execute some of the tasks during the competition.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1556-4967}, doi = {10.1002/rob.21702}, url = {http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/rob.21702/epdf}, author = {N. G. Tsagarakis and D. G. Caldwell and F. Negrello and W. Choi and L. Baccelliere and V. G. Loc and J. Noorden and L. Muratore and A. Margan and A. Cardellino and L. Natale and E. Mingo Hoffman and H. Dallali and N. Kashiri and J. Malzahn and J. Lee and P. Kryczka and D. Kanoulas and M. Garabini and M. G. Catalano and M. Ferrati and V. Varricchio and L. Pallottino and C. Pavan and A. Bicchi and A Settimi and A. Rocchi and A. Ajoudani} } @conference {2880, title = {APRICOT: Aerospace PRototypIng COntrol Toolbox. A Modeling and Simulation Environment for Aircraft Control Design}, booktitle = {International Workshop on Modelling and Simulation for Autonomous Systems MESAS 2016}, volume = {9991 of the book series Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS)}, year = {2016}, pages = {139 - 157}, publisher = {Springer}, organization = {Springer}, address = {Rome, Italy, June 15-16, 2016}, abstract = {

A novel MATLAB/Simulink based modeling and simulation environment for the design and rapid prototyping of state-of-the-art aircraft control systems is proposed. The toolbox, named APRICOT, is able to simulate the longitudinal and laterodirectional dynamics of an aircraft separately, as well as the complete 6 degrees of freedom dynamics. All details of the dynamics can be easily customized in the toolbox, some examples are shown in the paper. Moreover, different aircraft models can be easily integrated. The main goal of APRICOT is to provide a simulation environment to test and validate different control laws with different aircraft models. Hence, the proposed toolbox has applicability both for educational purposes and control rapid prototyping. With respect to similar software packages, APRICOT is customizable in all its aspects, and has been released as open source software. An interface with Flightgear Simulator allows for online visualization of the flight. Examples of control design with simulation experiments are reported and commented.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, doi = { 10.1007/978-3-319-47605-6_11}, url = {http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-47605-6_11}, author = {A. Ferrarelli and D. Caporale and A Settimi and L. Pallottino} } @conference {2878, title = {Assessing the Potential of Autonomous Multi-agent Surveillance in Asset Protection from Underwater Threats}, booktitle = {International Workshop on Modelling and Simulation for Autonomous Systems MESAS 2016}, volume = {9991 of the book series Lecture Notes in Computer Science (LNCS)}, year = {2016}, pages = {204 - 213}, publisher = {Springer}, organization = {Springer}, address = {Rome, Italy, June 15-16, 2016}, abstract = {

A Serious Game (SG) system for the assessment of the potential of the multi-vehicle surveillance is presented. The SG system is applied to the problem of protection of strategic assets from underwater asymmetric threats. The SG platform integrates the active sonar performance evaluator able to estimate the real performance on the basis of the environmental conditions. The final goal is to provide new technology tools to realize a Decision Support System (DDS) to support the design phase of a naval unit. The SG system is developed in the framework of the ProDifCon project supported by the (DLTM) (Italy).

}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-47605-6_17}, url = {http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-47605-6_17}, author = {T. Fabbri and S. Nardi and L. Isgr{\`o} and L. Pallottino and A. Caiti} } @article {3231, title = {Assessment of a Smart Sensing Shoe for Gait Phase Detection in Level Walking}, journal = {ELECTRONICS}, volume = {5}, year = {2016}, pages = {1{\textendash}15}, keywords = {accelerometers, force sensors, gait cycle, gait phase, smart shoe, walking, wearable technology}, doi = {10.3390/electronics5040078}, url = {http://www.mdpi.com/2079-9292/5/4/78}, author = {N. Carbonaro and F. Lorussi and A. Tognetti} } @article {3246, title = {Assessment of spontaneous cardiovascular oscillations in Parkinson{\textquoteright}s disease}, journal = {Biomedical Signal Processing and Control}, volume = {26}, year = {2016}, pages = {80{\textendash}89}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and S. Orsolini and S. Diciotti and L. Citi and E. P. Scilingo and M. Guerrisi and S. Danti and C. Lucetti and C. Tessa and R. Barbieri} } @article {2847, title = {An Attitude Estimation Algorithm for Mobile Robots under Unknown Magnetic Disturbances}, journal = {IEEE/ASME TRANSACTIONS ON MECHATRONICS}, volume = {21}, year = {2016}, pages = {1900-1911}, chapter = {1900}, abstract = {
Attitude estimation is a crucial aspect for navigation and motion control of autonomous vehicles. This concept is particularly true in the case of unavailability of localization sensors when navigation and control rely on dead reckoning strategies; in this case, indeed, the orientation estimate is also used along with speed measurements to update the position estimate. Among the different approaches proposed in the literature, the de facto state of the art in this field is represented by nonlinear complementary filters: they fuse the measurements of angular rate obtained through gyroscopes, and a measurement of gravity and Earth{\textquoteright}s magnetic field vectors respectively obtained through accelerometers and magnetometers. This paper is focused on an attitude estimation strategy for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV). The proposed novelty includes the identification of some critical issues that arise when AUV attitude estimation algorithms are applied in practice.
They are mainly due to the use of low-accuracy low-cost microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) sensors and on different sources of magnetic disturbances. Some strategies to overcome the identified issues are proposed, including the integration of a single-axis fiber optic gyroscope (FOG) that ensures a considerable performance improvement with a moderate cost increase. The proposed strategies for detection of issues and sensor fusion have been experimentally tested and validated in a real application scenario estimating the attitude of an AUV performing a lawn mower path.
The expected performance improvement is confirmed; the obtained results are described and analyzed in this paper.
}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/TMECH.2016.2559941}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7460980/}, author = {R. Costanzi and F. Fanelli and N. Monni and A. Ridolfi and B. Allotta} } @article {3235, title = {A bi-articular model for scapular-humeral rhythm reconstruction through data from wearable sensors}, journal = {JOURNAL OF NEUROENGINEERING AND REHABILITATION}, volume = {13}, year = {2016}, pages = {1{\textendash}13}, keywords = {Hand posture estimation, Reaching activity, Scapular girdle movement, Scapular-humeral rhythm, Wearable sensing}, doi = {10.1186/s12984-016-0149-2}, url = {https://jneuroengrehab.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12984-016-0149-2}, author = {F. Lorussi and N. Carbonaro and D. De Rossi and A. Tognetti} } @article {2896, title = {A bioreactor with an electro-responsive elastomeric membrane for mimicking intestinal peristalsis}, journal = {Bioinspiration \& Biomimetics}, volume = {12}, year = {2016}, abstract = {

This study describes an actuated bioreactor which mimics the pulsatile contractile motion of the intestinal barrier using electro-responsive elastomers as smart materials that undergo deformation upon electrical stimulation. The device consists of an annular dielectric elastomer actuator working as a radial artificial muscle able to rhythmically contract and relax a central cell culture well. The bioreactor maintained up to 4 h of actuation at a frequency of 0.15 Hz and a strain of 8\%{\textendash}10\%, to those of the cyclic contraction and relaxation of the small intestine. In vitro tests demonstrated that the device was biocompatible and cell-adhesive for Caco-2 cells, which formed a confluent monolayer following 21 days of culture in the central well. In addition, cellular adhesion and cohesion were maintained after 4 h of continuous cyclic strain. These preliminary results encourage further investigations on the use of dielectric elastomer actuation as a versatile technology that might overcome the limitations of commercially available pneumatic driving systems to obtain bioreactors that can cyclically deform cell cultures in a biomimetic fashion.

}, url = {http://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-3190/12/1/016001/pdf}, author = {D. Cei and J. Costa and G. Gori and G. Frediani and C. Domenici and F. Carpi and A. Ahluwalia} } @article {2835, title = {Clarifying CLARITY: Quantitative Optimization of the Diffusion Based Delipidation Protocol for Genetically Labeled Tissue}, journal = {Frontiers in Neuroscience}, year = {2016}, abstract = {

Tissue clarification has been recently proposed to allow deep tissue imaging without light scattering. The clarification parameters are somewhat arbitrary and dependent on tissue type, source and dimension: every laboratory has its own protocol, but a quantitative approach to determine the optimum clearing time is still lacking. Since the use of transgenic mouse lines that express fluorescent proteins to visualize specific cell populations is widespread, a quantitative approach to determine the optimum clearing time for genetically labeled neurons from thick murine brain slices using CLARITY2 is described. In particular, as the main objective of the delipidation treatment is to clarify tissues, while limiting loss of fluorescent signal, the {\textquotedblleft}goodness{\textquotedblright} of clarification was evaluated by considering the bulk tissue clarification index (BTCi) and the fraction of the fluorescent marker retained in the slice as easily quantifiable macroscale parameters. Here we describe the approach, illustrating an example of how it can be used to determine the optimum clearing time for 1 mm-thick cerebellar slice from transgenic L7GFP mice, in which Purkinje neurons express the GFP (green fluorescent protein) tag. To validate the method, we evaluated confocal stacks of our samples using standard image processing indices (i.e., the mean pixel intensity of neurons and the contrast-to-noise ratio) as figures of merit for image quality. The results show that detergent-based delipidation for more than 5 days does not increase tissue clarity but the fraction of GFP in the tissue continues to diminish. The optimum clearing time for 1 mm-thick slices was thus identified as 5 days, which is the best compromise between the increase in light penetration depth due to removal of lipids and a decrease in fluorescent signal as a consequence of protein loss: further clearing does not improve tissue transparency, but only leads to more protein removal or degradation. The rigorous quantitative approach described can be generalized to any clarification method to identify the moment when the clearing process should be terminated to avoid useless protein loss.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2016.00179}, url = {http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fnins.2016.00179/full}, author = {C. Magliaro and A. L. Callara and G. Mattei and M. Morcinelli and C. Viaggi and Vaglini, F and A. Ahluwalia} } @article {2848, title = {Cooperative navigation of AUVs via acoustic communication networking: field experience with the Typhoon vehicles}, journal = {AUTONOMOUS ROBOTS}, volume = {40}, year = {2016}, month = {10/2016}, pages = {1229{\textendash}1244}, abstract = {

A cooperative navigation procedure for a team of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) is described and validated on experimental data. The procedure relies on acoustic communication networking among the AUVs and/or fixed acoustic nodes, and it is suitable as a low-cost solution for team navigation. Embedding the acoustic localization measurements in the communication scheme causes delays and sometimes loss of acoustic data, depending on acoustic propagation conditions. Despite this drawback, the results obtained show that on-board localization estimates have an error of the order of few meters, improving the overall navigation performance and leading the system towards long-term autonomy in terms of operating mission time, without the need of periodic resurfacings dedicated to reset the estimation error. The data were collected during the CommsNet\ {\textquoteright}13 experiment, led by the NATO Science and Technology Organization Center for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE), and the Breaking The Surface\ {\textquoteright}14 workshop, organized by the University of Zagreb.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0929-5593}, doi = {10.1007/s10514-016-9594-9}, url = {http://link.springer.com/journal/volumesAndIssues/10514}, author = {B. Allotta and A. Caiti and R. Costanzi and F. Di Corato and D. Fenucci and N. Monni and L. Pugi and A. Ridolfi} } @article {2710, title = {fabrication and perivascular implantation of bioactive scaffolds engineered with human adventitial progenitor cells for stimulation of arteriogenesis in peripheral ischemia}, journal = {Biofabrication}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, month = {03/24}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1088/1758-5090/8/1/015020}, author = {Carrabba, M. and C. De Maria and A. Oikawa and C. Reni and I. Rodriguez-Arabaolaza and H. Spencer and S. Slater and E. Avolio and Z. Dang and G. Spinetti and MADEDDU, P. and G. Vozzi} } @inbook {2886, title = {From Soft to Adaptive Synergies: The Pisa/IIT SoftHand}, booktitle = {Human and Robot Hands}, volume = {Springer Series on Touch and Haptic Systems}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Springer}, organization = {Springer}, chapter = {101 - 125}, abstract = {

Taking inspiration from the neuroscientific findings on hand synergies discussed in the first part of the book, in this chapter we present the Pisa/IIT SoftHand, a novel robot hand prototype. The design moves under the guidelines of making an hardware robust and easy to control, preserving an high level of grasping capabilities and an aspect as similar as possible to the human counterpart. First, the main theoretical tools used to enable such simplification are presented, as for example the notion of soft synergies. A discussion of some possible actuation schemes shows that a straightforward implementation of the soft synergy idea in an effective design is not trivial. The proposed approach, called adaptive synergy, rests on ideas coming from underactuated hand design, offering a design method to implement the desired set of soft synergies as demonstrated both with simulations and experiments. As a particular instance of application of the synthesis method of adaptive synergies, the Pisa/IIT SoftHand is described in detail. The hand has 19 joints, but only uses one actuator to activate its adaptive synergy. Of particular relevance in its design is the very soft and safe, yet powerful and extremely robust structure, obtained through the use of innovative articulations and ligaments replacing conventional joint design. Moreover, in this work, summarizing results presented in previous papers, a discussion is presented about how a new set of possibilities is open from paradigm shift in manipulation approaches, moving from manipulation with rigid to soft hands.

}, issn = {978-3-319-26705-0}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-26706-7_8}, author = {M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and E. Farnioli and A. Serio and M. Bonilla and M. Garabini and C. Piazza and M Gabiccini and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2818, title = {A game theoretic approach for antagonistic-task coordination of underwater autonomous robots in asymmetric threats scenarios}, booktitle = {OCEANS 2016}, year = {2016}, month = {12/2016}, abstract = {

This work proposes a game theoretic approach
to tackle the problem of multi-robot coordination
in critical scenarios where communication is
limited and the robots must accomplish different tasks
simultaneously. An important application falls in underwater
robotic framework where robots are used to
protect a ship against asymmetric threats guaranteeing
simultaneously the coverage of the area around the ship
and the tracking of a possible intruder. The problem is
modelled as a potential game for which novel learning
protocols are introduced. Indeed, a general extension
of pay-off based algorithms is herein proposed where
the main difference with state-of-the-art protocols is
that the trajectory optimization is considered instead
of single action optimization. Moreover, the proposed
T-algorithms, steer the robots toward Nash equilibria
that will be shown to correspond to the accomplishment
of different, possibly antagonistic, goals. Finally, performances
of the algorithms, under different scenarios,
have been evaluated in simulations.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/OCEANS-Genova.2015.7271413}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7761346/}, author = {S. Nardi and T. Fabbri and A. Caiti and L. Pallottino} } @article {2652, title = {Hand synergies: Integration of robotics and neuroscience for understanding the control of biological and artificial hands}, journal = {Physics of Life Reviews}, volume = {17}, year = {2016}, month = {07/2016}, pages = {1-23}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, url = {http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1571064516000269}, author = {M. Santello and M. Bianchi and M Gabiccini and E. Ricciardi and G. Salvietti and D Prattichizzo and M. Ernst and A. Moscatelli and H. Jorntell and A. Kappers and K. Kyriakopulos and A Albu-Schaeffer and C. Castellini and A. Bicchi} } @article {3227, title = {A Hands-Free Interface for Controlling Virtual Electric-Powered Wheelchairs}, journal = {INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADVANCED ROBOTIC SYSTEMS}, volume = {13}, year = {2016}, pages = {1{\textendash}10}, keywords = {Assistive Technologies, Electric-powered Wheelchair, Hands-free Interface}, doi = {10.5772/62028}, author = {Gulrez, T and A. Tognetti and W. J. YooN and Kavakli-Thorne, M. and J.-J. Cabibihan} } @conference {3228, title = {A highly stretchable artificial sensitive skin using EIT}, booktitle = {Book of abstracts: 16th International Conference on Electrical Bio-Impedance, 17th International Conference on Electrical Impedance Tomography. ICEBI and EIT Stockholm 19{\quotesinglbase}{\"A}{\`\i}23 June 2016}, year = {2016}, pages = {132{\textendash}132}, publisher = {Karolinska Institutet}, organization = {Karolinska Institutet}, address = {Stoccolma}, url = {http://www.icebi2016.org/images/ICEBI_2016_web.pdf}, author = {S. Russo and A. Tognetti and N. Carbonaro and S. Nefti-meziani} } @article {3255, title = {Inhomogeneous point-processes to instantaneously assess affective haptic perception through heartbeat dynamics information}, journal = {Scientific reports}, volume = {6}, year = {2016}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and A. Greco and L. Citi and M. Bianchi and R. Barbieri and E. P. Scilingo} } @inbook {2713, title = {Machine design for multimaterial processing}, booktitle = {Nanobiomaterials in Soft Tissue Engineering - Applications of Nanobiomaterials}, year = {2016}, publisher = {Elsevier}, organization = {Elsevier}, issn = {978-0-323-42865-1}, author = {C. De Maria and De Acutis, A and Carrabba, M. and G. Criscenti and G. Vozzi} } @conference {2545, title = {A Modular Compliant Actuator for Emerging High Performance and Fall-Resilient Humanoids}, booktitle = {15th IEEE RAS Humanoids Conference (HUMANOIDS2015)}, year = {2016}, note = {

This work is supported by the WALK-MAN FP7-ICT-2013-10 European Commission project.

}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, keywords = {Robotics}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?arnumber=7363567}, author = {F. Negrello and M. Garabini and M. G. Catalano and J. Malzahn and D. G. Caldwell and A. Bicchi and N. G. Tsagarakis} } @conference {2893, title = {Motion Primitive Based Random Planning for Loco{\textendash}Manipulation Tasks}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Humanoid Robots (HUMANOIDS 2016)}, year = {2016}, note = {
This work is supported by the European commission project Walk-Man EU FP7-ICT no. 611832 and the ECs Horizon 2020 robotics program ICT-23-2014 under grant agreement 644727 (CogIMon)
}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Cancun, Mexico, 15-17 Nov. 2016 }, abstract = {

Several advanced control laws are available for
complex robotic systems such as humanoid robots and mobile
manipulators. Controls are usually developed for locomotion or
for manipulation purposes. Resulting motions are usually executed
sequentially and the potentiality of the robotic platform
is not fully exploited.
In this work we consider the problem of loco{\textendash}manipulation
planning for a robot with given parametrized control laws
known as primitives. Such primitives, may have not been
designed to be executed simultaneously and by composing
them instability may easily arise. With the proposed approach,
primitives combination that guarantee stability of the system
are obtained resulting in complex whole{\textendash}body behavior.
A formal definition of motion primitives is provided and a
random sampling approach on a manifold with limited dimension
is investigated. Probabilistic completeness and asymptotic
optimality are also proved. The proposed approach is tested
both on a mobile manipulator and on the humanoid robot
Walk-Man, performing loco{\textendash}manipulation tasks.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, isbn = {978-1-5090-4718-5 }, doi = {10.1109/HUMANOIDS.2016.7803402}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7803402/}, author = {A Settimi and D. Caporale and P. Kryczka and M. Ferrati and L. Pallottino} } @article {2866, title = {A Multi-Modal Sensing Glove for Human Manual-Interaction Studies}, journal = {Electronics}, volume = { 5}, year = {2016}, note = {

This work is supported in part by the European Research Council under the Advanced Grant {\textquotedblleft}SoftHands: A Theory of Soft Synergies for a New Generation of Artificial Hands{\textquotedblright} (No. ERC-291166), by the EU H2020 projects {\textquotedblleft}SoftPro: Synergy-based Open-source Foundations and Technologies for Prosthetics and RehabilitatiOn{\textquotedblright} (No. 688857) and {\textquotedblleft}SOMA: Soft Manipulation{\textquotedblright} (No. 64559) and by the EU FP7 project (No. 601165) {\textquotedblleft}WEARable HAPtics for Humans and Robots (WEARHAP){\textquotedblright}.

}, abstract = {

We present an integrated sensing glove that combines two of the most visionary wearable sensing technologies to provide both hand posture sensing and tactile pressure sensing in a unique, lightweight, and stretchable device. Namely, hand posture reconstruction employs Knitted Piezoresistive Fabrics that allows us to measure bending. From only five of these sensors (one for each finger) the full hand pose of a 19 degrees of freedom (DOF) hand model is reconstructed leveraging optimal sensor placement and estimation techniques. To this end, we exploit a-priori information of synergistic coordination patterns in grasping tasks. Tactile sensing employs a piezoresistive fabric allowing us to measure normal forces in more than 50 taxels spread over the palmar surface of the glove. We describe both sensing technologies, report on the software integration of both modalities, and describe a preliminary evaluation experiment analyzing hand postures and force patterns during grasping. Results of the reconstruction are promising and encourage us to push further our approach with potential applications in neuroscience, virtual reality, robotics and tele-operation.

}, keywords = {Haptics}, doi = {10.3390/electronics5030042}, url = {http://www.mdpi.com/2079-9292/5/3/42/pdf}, author = {M. Bianchi and R. Haschke and G. B{\"u}scher and S. Ciotti and N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti} } @conference {2892, title = {Natural encoding of user intentions in a soft prosthesis using Dynamic Synergies}, booktitle = {International Workshop on Human-Friendly Robotics}, year = {2016}, author = {C. Piazza and C. Della Santina and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and M. Garabini and A. Bicchi} } @article {2845, title = {A new AUV navigation system exploiting unscented Kalman filter}, journal = {OCEAN ENGINEERING}, volume = {113}, year = {2016}, pages = {121-132}, abstract = {

The development of precise and robust navigation strategies for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) is fundamental to reach the high level of performance required by complex underwater tasks, often including more than one AUV. One of the main factors affecting the accuracy of AUVs navigation systems is the algorithm used to estimate the vehicle motion, usually based on kinematic vehicle models and linear estimators. A precise and reliable navigation system is indeed fundamental to AUVs: the Global Positioning System (GPS) signal is not available underwater, thus making it very hard to know the position of the vehicle in real-time. In this paper, the authors present an innovative navigation strategy specifically designed for AUVs, based on the Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF). The new algorithm proves to be effective if applied to this class of vehicles and allows us to achieve a satisfying accuracy improvement compared to standard navigation algorithms. The proposed strategy has been experimentally validated using the navigation data acquired in suitable sea tests performed in Biograd Na Moru (Croatia) in the framework of the FP7 European ARROWS project tests performed during the Breaking the Surface 2014 (BtS 2014) workshop. The vehicles involved are the two Typhoon AUVs, developed and built by the Department of Industrial Engineering of the University of Florence within the THESAURUS Tuscany Region project for exploration and surveillance of underwater archaeological sites. The experiment, described in the paper, was performed to preliminary test the cooperative navigation between these AUVs. The new algorithm has been initially tested offline, and the validation of the proposed strategy provided accurate results in estimating the vehicle dynamic behaviour.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1016/j.oceaneng.2015.12.058}, author = {B. Allotta and A. Caiti and R. Costanzi and F. Fanelli and D. Fenucci and E. Meli and A. Ridolfi} } @article {2627, title = {No More Heavy Lifting: Robotic Solutions to the Container Unloading Problem}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Magazine}, volume = {23}, year = {2016}, month = {08/2016}, chapter = {94}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {https://doi.org/10.1109/MRA.2016.2535098}, url = {https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7553531}, author = {T. Stoyanov and N. Vaskeviciusz and C. A. Mueller and T. Fromm and R. Krug and V. Tincani and R. Mojtahedzadeh and S. Kunaschk and R. M. Ernits and D. R. Canelhas and M. Bonilla and S. Schwertfeger and M. Bonini and H. Halfar and K. Pathak and M. Rohde and G Fantoni and A. Bicchi and A. Birk and A. Lilienthal and W. Echelmeyer} } @article {2834, title = {Polymeric microporous nanofilms as smart platforms for in vitro assessment of nanoparticle translocation and Caco-2 cell culture}, journal = { IEEE Transactions on NanoBioscience }, year = {2016}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = { 10.1109/TNB.2016.2603191}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7552480/}, author = {L. Ricotti and G. Gori and D. Cei and J. Costa and G. Signore and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {3232, title = {A preliminary framework for a social robot {\quotesinglbase}{\"A}{\'u}sixth sense{\quotesinglbase}{\"A}{\`u}}, booktitle = {Biomimetic and Biohybrid Systems 5th International Conference, Living Machines 2016, Edinburgh, UK, July 19-22, 2016. Proceedings}, volume = {9793}, year = {2016}, pages = {58{\textendash}70}, publisher = {Springer Verlag}, organization = {Springer Verlag}, address = {Dordrecht}, keywords = {Affective computing, Behaviour monitoring, Computer Science (all), human-robot interaction, social robotics, Synthetic tutor, Theoretical Computer Science}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-42417-0_6}, url = {http://springerlink.com/content/0302-9743/copyright/2005/}, author = {Cominelli, L. and D. Mazzei and N. Carbonaro and R. Garofalo and A. Zaraki and A. Tognetti and D. De Rossi} } @conference {3230, title = {A Quantitative Evaluation of Drive Patterns in Electrical Impedance Tomography}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the 6th EAI International Conference on Wireless Mobile Communication and Healthcare}, year = {2016}, pages = {337{\textendash}344}, keywords = {drive patterns, EIT, Electrical impedance tomography, stretchable sensors}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-58877-3}, author = {S. Russo and N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti and S. Nefti-meziani} } @article {2711, title = {Reconstruction of medial patello-femoral ligament: Comparison of two surgical techniques}, journal = {J Mech Behav Biomed Mater.}, year = {2016}, month = {02/10}, pages = {272-278}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1016/j.jmbbm.2016.02.009}, author = {Criscenti, G. and C. De Maria and E. Sebastiani and M. Tei and G. Placella and G. Vozzi and Cerulli, G.} } @article {2712, title = {riphasic scaffolds for the regeneration of the bone-ligament interface}, journal = {Biofabrication}, volume = {8}, year = {2016}, chapter = {015009}, doi = {10.1088/1758-5090/8/1/015009}, author = {G. Criscenti and A. Longoni and A. Di Luca and C. De Maria and Van Blitterswijk, C. and G. Vozzi and Moroni, L.} } @conference {2889, title = {Robust Optimization of System Compliance for Physical Interaction in Uncertain Scenarios}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Humanoid Robots (HUMANOIDS2016)}, year = {2016}, note = {
This work was supported by the European Commission projects (FP7 framework) Walk-Man and the European Commission Grant no. H2020- ICT-645599 {\textquotedblleft}SOMA{\textquotedblright}: SOft MAnipulation
}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Cancun, Mexico, 15-17 Nov. 2016 }, abstract = {

Compliance in robot design and control is often introduced to improve the robot performance in tasks where interaction with environment or human is required. However a rigorous method to choose the correct level of compliance is still not available. In this work we use robust optimization as a tool to select the optimal compliance value in a robotenvironment interaction scenario under uncertainties. We propose an approach that can be profitably applied on a variety of tasks, e.g.manipulation tasks or locomotion tasks. The aim is to minimize the forces of interaction considering model constraints and uncertainties. Numerical results show that: i) in case of perfect knowledge of the environment stiff robots behave better in terms of force minimization, ii) in case of uncertainties the optimal stiffness of the robot is lower than the previous case and optimal solutions provide a faster task accomplishment, iii) the optimal stiffness decreases as a function of the uncertainty measure. Experiments are carried out in a realistic set-up in case of bi-manual object handover.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, isbn = {978-1-5090-4718-5 }, doi = { 10.1109/HUMANOIDS.2016.7803381}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7803381/}, author = {Gasparri, G. M. and F. Fabiani and M. Garabini and L. Pallottino and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and R. Persichini and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3086, title = {Soft Robots that Mimic the Neuromusculoskeletal System}, booktitle = {3rd International Conference on NeuroRehabilitation (ICNR2016)}, volume = {Converging Clinical and Engineering Research on Neurorehabilitation}, year = {2016}, month = {10/2016}, pages = {259-263}, publisher = {Springer}, organization = {Springer}, abstract = {

In motor control studies, the question on which
parameters human beings and animals control through their
nervous system has been extensively explored and discussed,
and several hypotheses proposed. It is widely acknowledged
that useful inputs in this problem could be provided by
developing artificial replication of the neuromusculoskeletal
system, to experiment different motor control hypothesis. In
this paper we present such device, which reproduces many of
the characteristics of an agonistic-antagonistic muscular pair
acting on a joint.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = { 10.1007/978-3-319-46669-9_45}, url = {http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-46669-9_45}, author = {M. Garabini and C. Della Santina and M. Bianchi and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @inbook {2865, title = {The SoftHand Pro: Translation from Robotic Hand to Prosthetic Prototype}, booktitle = {Converging Clinical and Engineering Research on Neurorehabilitation II}, volume = {15}, number = {Biosystems \& Biorobotics }, year = {2016}, note = {

Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on NeuroRehabilitation (ICNR2016), October 18-21, 2016, Segovia, Spain

}, pages = {469-473}, publisher = {Springer International Publishing}, organization = {Springer International Publishing}, abstract = {

This work presents the translation from a humanoid robotic hand to a prosthetic prototype and its first evaluation in a set of 9 persons with amputation. The Pisa/IIT SoftHand is an underactuated hand built on the neuroscientific principle of motor synergies enabling it to perform natural, human-like movements and mold around grasped objects with minimal control input. These features motivated the development of the SoftHand Pro, a prosthetic version of the SoftHand built to interface with a prosthetic socket. The results of the preliminary testing of the SoftHand Pro showed it to be a highly functional design with an intuitive control system. Present results warrant further testing to develop the SoftHand Pro.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, issn = {978-3-319-46668-2}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-46669-9_78}, url = {http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-46669-9_78}, author = {S. B. Godfrey and M. Bianchi and K. Zhao and M. G. Catalano and R. Breighner and A. Theuer and K. Andrews and G. Grioli and M. Santello and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2725, title = {SoftHand Pro-D: Matching Dynamic Content of Natural User Commands with Hand Embodiment for Enhanced Prosthesis Control}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference of Robotics and Automation (ICRA2016)}, year = {2016}, note = {

softpro soma softhands

}, pages = {3516 - 3523}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Stockholm, Sweden, May 16-21}, abstract = {

State of the art of hand prosthetics is divided between simple and reliable gripper-like systems and sophisticate hi-tech poly-articular hands which tend to be complex both in their design and for the patient to operate. In this paper, we introduce the idea of decoding different movement intentions of the patient using the dynamic frequency content of the control signals in a natural way. We move a step further showing how this idea can be embedded in the mechanics of an underactuated soft hand by using only passive damping components.

In particular we devise a method to design the hand hardware to obtain a given desired motion. This method, that we call of the dynamic synergies, builds on the theory of linear descriptor systems, and is based on the division of the hand movement in a slow and a fast components. We use this method to evolve the design of the Pisa/IIT SoftHand in a prototype prosthesis which, while still having 19 degrees of freedom and just one motor, can move along two different synergistic directions of motion (and combinations of the two), to perform either a pinch or a power grasp. Preliminary experimental results are presented, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed design

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ICRA.2016.7487532}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7487532}, author = {C. Piazza and C. Della Santina and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and M. Garabini and A. Bicchi} } @article {2867, title = {A Synergy-Based Optimally Designed Sensing Glove for Functional Grasp Recognition}, journal = {Sensors}, volume = {16}, year = {2016}, abstract = {

Achieving accurate and reliable kinematic hand pose reconstructions represents a challenging task. The main reason for this is the complexity of hand biomechanics, where several degrees of freedom are distributed along a continuous deformable structure. Wearable sensing can represent a viable solution to tackle this issue, since it enables a more natural kinematic monitoring. However, the intrinsic accuracy (as well as the number of sensing elements) of wearable hand pose reconstruction (HPR) systems can be severely limited by ergonomics and cost considerations. In this paper, we combined the theoretical foundations of the optimal design of HPR devices based on hand synergy information, i.e., the inter-joint covariation patterns, with textile goniometers based on knitted piezoresistive fabrics (KPF) technology, to develop, for the first time, an optimally-designed under-sensed glove for measuring hand kinematics. We used only five sensors optimally placed on the hand and completed hand pose reconstruction (described according to a kinematic model with 19 degrees of freedom) leveraging upon synergistic information. The reconstructions we obtained from five different subjects were used to implement an unsupervised method for the recognition of eight functional grasps, showing a high degree of accuracy and robustness.

}, keywords = {Haptics}, doi = {10.3390/s16060811}, url = {http://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/16/6/811}, author = {S. Ciotti and E. Battaglia and N. Carbonaro and A. Bicchi and A. Tognetti and M. Bianchi} } @conference {2820, title = {Tactile Augmented Reality for Arteries Palpation in Open Surgery Training}, booktitle = {7th International Conference, MIAR 2016}, volume = {Medical Imaging and Augmented Reality - Volume 9805 of the series Lecture Notes in Computer Science }, year = {2016}, pages = {186-197}, publisher = {Springer International Publishing}, organization = {Springer International Publishing}, address = {Bern, Switzerland, August 24-26, 2016}, abstract = {

Palpation is an essential step of several open surgical procedures for locating arteries by arterial pulse detection. In this context, surgical simulation would ideally provide realistic haptic sensations to the operator. This paper presents a proof of concept implementation of tactile augmented reality for open-surgery training. The system is based on the integration of a wearable tactile device into an augmented physical simulator which allows the real time tracking of artery reproductions and the user finger and provides pulse feedback during palpation. Preliminary qualitative test showed a general consensus among surgeons regarding the realism of the arterial pulse feedback and the usefulness of tactile augmented reality in open-surgery simulators.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, isbn = {978-3-319-43774-3}, author = {S. Condino and R. Vigliaoro and M. Bianchi and Morelli, L and M. Ferrari and A. Bicchi and V. Ferrari} } @article {2544, title = {ThimbleSense: a fingertip-wearable tactile sensor for grasp analysis}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Haptics}, volume = {9}, year = {2016}, note = {
This work was partially supported by the European Community funded projects WEARHAP, PACMAN and SOMA (contracts 601165, 600918 and 645599 respectively), by the ERC Advanced Grant no. 291166 SoftHands
}, month = {03/2016}, pages = {121-133}, abstract = {

Accurate measurement of contact forces between hand and grasped objects is crucial to study sensorimotor control during grasp and manipulation. In this work we introduce ThimbleSense, a prototype of individual-digit wearable force/torque sensor based on the principle of intrinsic tactile sensing. By exploiting the integration of this approach with an active marker-based motion capture system, the proposed device simultaneously measures absolute position and orientation of the fingertip, which in turn yields measurements of contacts and force components expressed in a global reference frame. The main advantage of this approach with respect to more conventional solutions is its versatility. Specifically, ThimbleSense can be used to study grasping and manipulation of a wide variety of objects, while still retaining complete force/torque measurements. Nevertheless, validation of the proposed device is a necessary step before it can be used for experimental purposes. In this work we present the results of a series of experiments designed to validate the accuracy of ThimbleSense measurements and evaluate the effects of distortion of tactile afferent inputs caused by the device{\textquoteright}s rigid shells on grasp forces.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, issn = {1939-1412}, doi = {10.1109/TOH.2015.2482478}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7294702}, author = {E. Battaglia and M. Bianchi and Altobelli, A and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and A. Serio and M. Santello and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2881, title = {Toward an Adaptive Foot for Natural Walking}, booktitle = {International Conference on Humanoid Robots (HUMANOIDS2016)}, year = {2016}, address = {Cancun, Mexico, November 15-17, 2016}, abstract = {

Many walking robot presented in literature stand
on rigid flat feet, with a few notable exceptions that embed
flexibility in their feet to optimize the energetic cost of walking.
This paper proposes a novel adaptive robot foot design, whose
main goal is to ease the task of standing and walking on uneven
terrains. After explaining the rationale behind our design
approach, we present the design of the SoftFoot, a foot able
to comply with uneven terrains and to absorb shocks thanks to
its intrinsic adaptivity, while still being able to rigidly support
the stance, maintaining a rather extended contact surface,
and effectively enlarging the equivalent support polygon. The
paper introduces the robot design and prototype and presents
preliminary validation and comparison versus a rigid flat foot
with comparable footprint and sole.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/HUMANOIDS.2016.7803423}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7803423}, author = {C. Piazza and C. Della Santina and Gasparri, G. M. and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and M. Garabini and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3234, title = {Towards the development of an EIT-based stretchable sensor for multi-touch industrial human-computer interaction systems}, booktitle = {Cross-Cultural Design 8th International Conference, CCD 2016, Held as Part of HCI International 2016, Toronto, ON, Canada, July 17-22, 2016, Proceedings}, volume = {9741}, year = {2016}, pages = {563{\textendash}573}, publisher = {Springer Verlag}, organization = {Springer Verlag}, address = {Dordrecht}, keywords = {Computer Science (all), Theoretical Computer Science}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-40093-855}, url = {http://springerlink.com/content/0302-9743/copyright/2005/}, author = {S. Russo and S. Nefti-meziani and Gulrez, T and N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti} } @article {2846, title = {An unscented Kalman filter based navigation algorithm for autonomous underwater vehicles}, journal = {Mechatronics}, volume = {39}, year = {2016}, month = {11/2016}, pages = {185-195}, abstract = {

Robust and performing navigation systems for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) play a discriminant role towards the success of complex underwater missions involving one or more AUVs. The quality of the filtering algorithm for the estimation of the AUV navigation state strongly affects the performance of the overall system. In this paper, the authors present a comparison between the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) approach, classically used in the field of underwater robotics and an Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF). The comparison results to be significant as the two strategies of filtering are based on the same process and sensors models. The UKF-based approach, here adapted to the AUV case, demonstrates to be a good trade-off between estimation accuracy and computational load. UKF has not yet been extensively used in practical underwater applications, even if it turns out to be quite promising. The proposed results rely on the data acquired during a sea mission performed by one of the two Typhoon class vehicles involved in the NATO CommsNet13 experiment (held in September 2013). As ground truth for performance evaluation and comparison, performed offline, position measurements obtained through Ultra-Short BaseLine (USBL) fixes are used. The result analysis leads to identify both the strategies as effective for the purpose of being included in the control loop of an AUV. The UKF approach demonstrates higher performance encouraging its implementation as a more suitable navigation algorithm even if, up to now, it is still not used much in this field.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.mechatronics.2016.05.007}, url = {http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S095741581630037X}, author = {B. Allotta and A. Caiti and L. Chisci and R. Costanzi and F. Di Corato and D. Fantacci and D. Fenucci and E. Meli and A. Ridolfi} } @article {2904, title = {Variable Stiffness Actuators: Review on Design and Components}, journal = { IEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics }, volume = {21}, year = {2016}, month = {10/2016}, pages = {2418 - 2430}, abstract = {

Variable stiffness actuators (VSAs) are complex mechatronic devices that are developed to build passively compliant, robust, and dexterous robots. Numerous different hardware designs have been developed in the past two decades to address various demands on their functionality. This review paper gives a guide to the design process from the analysis of the desired tasks identifying the relevant attributes and their influence on the selection of different components such as motors, sensors, and springs. The influence on the performance of different principles to generate the passive compliance and the variation of the stiffness are investigated. Furthermore, the design contradictions during the engineering process are explained in order to find the best suiting solution for the given purpose. With this in mind, the topics of output power, potential energy capacity, stiffness range, efficiency, and accuracy are discussed. Finally, the dependencies of control, models, sensor setup, and sensor quality are addressed.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/TMECH.2015.2501019}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7330025}, author = {S. Wolf and G. Grioli and O. Eiberger and W. Friedl and M. Grebenstein and H. Hoppner and E. Burdet and D. G. Caldwell and R. Carloni and M. G. Catalano and D. Lefeber and S. Stramigioli and N. G. Tsagarakis and M. Van Damme and R. Van Ham and B. Vanderborght and L. C. Visser and A. Bicchi and A Albu-Schaeffer} } @conference {2788, title = { WALK-MAN humanoid lower body design optimization for enhanced physical performance}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference of Robotics and Automation (ICRA2016)}, year = {2016}, pages = {1817 - 1824}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Stockholm, Sweden, May 16-21, 2016 }, abstract = {
The deployment of robots to assist in environments hostile for humans during emergency scenarios require robots to demonstrate enhanced physical performance, that includes adequate power, adaptability and robustness to physical interactions and efficient operation. This work presents the design and development of the lower body of the new high performance humanoid WALK-MAN, a robot developed recently to assist in disaster response scenarios. The paper introduces the details of the WALK-MAN lower-body, highlighting the innovative design optimization features considered to maximize the leg performance. Starting from the general lower body specifications the objectives of the design and how they were addressed are introduced, including the selection of the leg kinematics, the arrangement of the actuators and their integration with the leg structure to maximize the range of motion, reduce the leg mass and inertia, and shape the leg mass distribution for better dynamic performance. Physical robustness is ensured with the integration of elastic transmission and impact energy absorbing covers. Experimental walking trials demonstrate the correct operation of the legs while executing a walking gait.
}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ICRA.2016.7487327}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7487327}, author = {F. Negrello and M. Garabini and M. G. Catalano and P. Kryczka and W. Choi and D. G. Caldwell and A. Bicchi and N. G. Tsagarakis} } @conference {2723, title = {A Wearable Fabric-based Display for Haptic Multi-Cue Delivery}, booktitle = {IEEE Haptics Symposium}, year = {2016}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Philadelphia, USA, April 8-11, 2016}, abstract = {

Softness represents one of the most informative

haptic properties, which plays a fundamental role in both

everyday tasks and more complex procedures. Thus, it is not

surprising that much effort has been devoted to designing haptic

systems able to suitably reproduce this information. At the

same time, wearability has gained an increasing importance as

a novel paradigm to enable a more effective and naturalistic

human robot interaction. Capitalizing upon our previous works

on grounded softness devices, in this paper we present the

Wearable Fabric Yielding Display (W-FYD), a fabric-based

tactile display for multi-cue delivery that can be worn by

user{\textquoteright}s finger. W-FYD enables to implement both passive and

active tactile exploration. Different levels of stiffness can be

reproduced by modulating the stretching state of a fabric

through two DC motors. An additional vertical degree of

freedom is implemented through a lifting mechanism, which

enables to convey softness stimuli to the user{\textquoteright}s finger pad.

Furthermore, a sliding effect on the finger can be also induced.

Experiments with humans show the effectiveness of W-FYD for

haptic multi-cue delivery.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/HAPTICS.2016.7463190}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/search/searchresult.jsp?queryText=A\%20Wearable\%20Fabric-based\%20Display\%20for\%20Haptic\%20Multi-Cue\%20Delivery\&newsearch=true}, author = {M. Bianchi and E. Battaglia and M. Poggiani and S. Ciotti and A. Bicchi} } @article {3233, title = {Wearable Textile Platform for Assessing Stroke Patient Treatment in Daily Life Conditions}, journal = {FRONTIERS IN BIOENGINEERING AND BIOTECHNOLOGY}, volume = {4}, year = {2016}, pages = {1{\textendash}28}, keywords = {ambulatory monitoring, data fusion, gait, Grasping, reaching, stroke rehabilitation, wearable sensors}, doi = {10.3389/fbioe.2016.00028}, author = {F. Lorussi and N. Carbonaro and D. De Rossi and R. Paradiso and Veltink, P. and A. Tognetti} } @article {3237, title = {Characterization of Depressive States in Bipolar Patients using Wearable Textile Technology and Instantaneous Heart Rate Variability Assessment}, journal = {IEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics}, volume = {19}, year = {2015}, pages = {263{\textendash}274}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and C. Gentili and A Lanata and E. P. Scilingo and R. Barbieri} } @conference {2454, title = {Characterization of Nonlinear Finger Pad Mechanics for Tactile Rendering}, booktitle = {IEEE World Haptics Conference}, year = {2015}, note = {

softhands, werahap

}, pages = {63-68}, address = {Chicago, USA, 22-25 June 2015}, abstract = {

The computation of skin forces and deformations for\ tactilerendering\ requires an accurate model of the extremely\ nonlinear\ behavior of the skin. In this work, we investigate the\ characterization\ of\ fingermechanics\ with the goal of designing accurate\ nonlinear\ models for\ tactilerendering. First, we describe a measurement setup that enables the acquisition of contact force and contact area in the context of controlled\ finger\ indentation experiments. Second, we describe an optimization procedure that estimates the parameters of strain-limiting deformation models that match best the acquired data. We show that the acquisition setup allows the measurement of force and area information with high repeatability, and the estimation method reaches\ nonlinear\ models that match the measured data with high accuracy.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/WHC.2015.7177692}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7177692}, author = {E. Miguel and M. L. D{\textquoteright}Angelo and F. Cannella and M. Bianchi and M Memeo and A. Bicchi and D. G. Caldwell and M. A. Otaduy} } @article {2387, title = {Characterizing psychological dimensions in non-pathological subjects through autonomic nervous system dynamics}, journal = {Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience}, volume = {9}, year = {2015}, month = {03/2015}, doi = {dx.doi.org/10.3389/fncom.2015.00037}, author = {M. Nardelli and G. Valenza and Cristea, I. and C. Gentili and C. Cotet and David, D. and A Lanata and E. P. Scilingo} } @article {2501, title = {Combining Inkjet Printing and Sol-Gel chemistry for Making pH-Sensitive surfaces}, journal = {Current topics in medicinal chemistry}, volume = {15(3)}, year = {2015}, pages = {271-278}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Orsi and C. De Maria and F. Montemurro and Chauhan, V. and Aylott, J. and G. Vozzi} } @article {2489, title = {cvxEDA: a Convex Optimization Approach to Electrodermal Activity Processing}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering}, year = {2015}, author = {A. Greco and G. Valenza and A Lanata and Scilingo E.P. and L. Citi} } @conference {2495, title = {Damasio{\textquoteright}s Somatic Marker for Social Robotics: Preliminary Implementation and Test}, booktitle = {Living Machines - The 4th International Conference on Biomimetic and Biohybrid Systems}, year = {2015}, pages = {316-328}, publisher = {Springer}, organization = {Springer}, address = {Barcelona, Spain, 28 - 31 July 2015}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, url = {http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-22979-9_31$\#$page-1}, author = {Cominelli, L. and D. Mazzei and M. Pieroni and A. Zaraki and R. Garofalo and D. De Rossi} } @conference {2560, title = {Design and Realization of the CUFF - Clenching Upper-Limb Force Feedback Wearable Device for Distributed Mechano-Tactile Stimulation of Normal and Tangential Skin Forces}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference of Intelligent Robots and Systems - IROS2015}, year = {2015}, note = {

The authors want to thank Cosimo della Santina, Andrea Di Basco, Riccardo Persichini and Fabio Bonomo for their really valuable support in the development of the hardware prototype. This work is supported in part by the European Research Council under the Advanced Grant SoftHands {\textquotedblleft}A Theory of Soft Synergies for a New Generation of Artificial Hands{\textquotedblright} (no. ERC-291166), and by the EU FP7 project (no. 601165) {\textquotedblleft}WEARable HAPtics for Humans and Robots (WEARHAP)

}, pages = {1186 - 1193}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Hamburg, Germany, 28 Sept - 2 Oct 2015}, abstract = {

Rendering forces to the user is one of the main goals of haptic technology. While most force-feedback interfaces are robotic manipulators, attached to a fixed frame and designed to exert forces on the users while being moved, more recent haptic research introduced two novel important ideas. On one side, cutaneous stimulation aims at rendering haptic stimuli at the level of the skin, with a distributed, rather than, concentrated approach. On the other side, wearable haptics focuses on highly portable and mobile devices, which can be carried and worn by the user as the haptic equivalent of an mp3 player. This paper presents a light and simple wearable device (CUFF) for the distributed mechano-tactile stimulation of the user{\textquoteright}s arm skin with pressure and stretch cues, related to normal and tangential forces, respectively. The working principle and the mechanical and control implementation of the CUFF device are presented. Then, after a basic functional validation, a first application of the device is shown, where it is used to render the grasping force of a robotic hand (the Pisa/IIT SoftHand). Preliminary results show that the device is capable to deliver in a reliable manner grasping force information, thus eliciting a good softness discrimination in users and enhancing the overall grasping experience.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/IROS.2015.7353520}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/articleDetails.jsp?arnumber=7353520\&newsearch=true\&queryText=Design\%20and\%20Realization\%20of\%20the\%20CUFF\%20-\%20Clenching\%20Upper-Limb\%20Force\%20Feedback\%20Wearable\%20Device\%20for\%20Distributed\%20Mechano-Tactile\%20Stimulatio}, author = {S. Casini and M. Morvidoni and M. Bianchi and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2537, title = {Dexterity augmentation on a synergistic hand: the Pisa/IIT SoftHand+}, booktitle = {15th IEEE RAS Humanoids Conference (HUMANOIDS2015)}, year = {2015}, note = {

Softhands, SOMA

Best Interactive Paper Award

}, pages = {497 - 503}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Seoul, Korea, November 3 - 5, 2015}, abstract = {
Soft robotics and under-actuation were recently demonstrated as good approaches for the implementation of humanoid robotic hands. Nevertheless, it is often difficult to increase the number of degrees of actuation of heavily under-actuated hands without compromising their intrinsic simplicity. In this paper we analyze the Pisa/IIT SoftHand and its underlying logic of adaptive synergies, and propose a method to double its number of degree of actuation, with a very reduced impact on its mechanical complexity. This new design paradigm is based on constructive exploitation of friction phenomena.
Based on this method, a novel prototype of under-actuated robot hand with two degrees of actuation is proposed, named Pisa/IIT SoftHand+. A preliminary validation of the prototype follows, based on grasping and manipulation examples of some objects.
}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/HUMANOIDS.2015.7363595}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7363595}, author = {C. Della Santina and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and Brando, A. and A. Bicchi} } @article {2530, title = {Epsilon-Optimal Synthesis for Unicycle-like Vehicles with Limited Field-Of-View Sensors}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Robotics (T-RO)}, volume = {31}, year = {2015}, pages = {1404 - 1418}, abstract = {

In this paper we study the minimum length paths covered by the center of a unicycle equipped with a limited Field{\textendash}Of{\textendash}View (FOV) camera, which must keep a given landmark in sight. Previous works on this subject have provided the optimal synthesis for the cases in which the FOV is only limited in the horizontal directions (i.e. left and right bounds) or in the vertical directions (i.e. upper and lower bounds). In this paper we show how to merge previous results and hence obtaining, for a realistic image plane modeled as a rectangle, a finite alphabet of extremal arcs and the overall synthesis. As shown, this objective can not be straightforwardly achieved from previous results but needs further analysis and developments. Moreover, there are initial configurations such that there exists no optimal path. Nonetheless, we are always able to provide an e{\textendash}optimal path whose length approximates arbitrarily well any other shorter path. As final results, we provide a partition of the motion plane in regions such that the optimal or e{\textendash}optimal path from each point in thatregion is univocally determined.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/TRO.2015.2492878}, author = {P Salaris and A. Cristofaro and L. Pallottino} } @article {2207, title = {Epsilon{\textendash}optimal synthesis for vehicles with vertically bounded Field-Of-View}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Automatic Control}, volume = {60}, year = {2015}, pages = {1204 - 1218}, abstract = {

This paper presents a contribution to the problem of obtaining an optimal synthesis for shortest paths for a unicycle guided by an on{\textendash}board limited Field Of{\textendash}View (FOV) sensor, which must keep a given landmark in sight. Previous works on this subject have provided an optimal synthesis for the case in which the FOV is limited in the horizontal directions (H{\textendash} FOV, i.e. left and right boundaries). In this paper we study the complementary case in which the FOV is limited only in the vertical direction (V{\textendash}FOV, i.e. upper and lower boundaries). With respect to the H{\textendash}FOV case, the vertical limitation is all but a simple extension. Indeed, not only the geometry of extremal arcs is different, but also a more complex structure of the synthesis is revealed by analysis. We will indeed show that there exist initial configurations for which the optimal path does not exist. In such cases, we provide an e{\textendash}optimal path whose length approximates arbitrarily well any other shorter path. Finally, we provide a partition of the motion plane in regions such that the optimal or e{\textendash}optimal path from each point in that region is univocally determined.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, issn = {0018-9286}, doi = {10.1109/TAC.2014.2366271}, author = {Salaris, P. and Cristofaro, A. and L. Pallottino and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2718, title = {Evaluation of wearable KPF goniometers in knee flexion-extension measurement for daily-life applications}, booktitle = {Proceedings of Wireless EAI 4th International Conference on Mobile Communication and Healthcare (Mobihealth)}, year = {2015}, pages = {1-4}, publisher = {ICST (Institute for Computer Sciences, Social-Informatics and Telecommunications Engineering}, organization = {ICST (Institute for Computer Sciences, Social-Informatics and Telecommunications Engineering}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.4108/eai.14-10-2015.2261613}, url = {http://dl.acm.org/citation.cfm?id=2897477}, author = {F. Lorussi and N. Carbonaro and D. De Rossi and A. Tognetti} } @conference {2539, title = {A Finite Element Model of Tactile Flow for Softness Perception}, booktitle = {37th Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC2015)}, year = {2015}, note = {

This work was partially supported by the European Research Council under the ERC Advanced Grant no. 291166 SoftHands (A Theory of Soft Synergies for a New Generation of Artificial Hands) and under the grant agreement no. 601165 Wearhap (Wearable Haptics for Humans and Robots), within the FP7/2007-2013 program: Cognitive Systems and Robotics.

}, pages = {2430 - 2433}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Milano, Italy, August 25th-29th, 2015}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/EMBC.2015.7318884}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7318884}, author = {E. Battaglia and M. Bianchi and M. L. D{\textquoteright}Angelo and M. D{\textquoteright}Imperio and F. Cannella and E. P. Scilingo and A. Bicchi} } @conference {3245, title = {Instantaneous transfer entropy for the study of cardio-respiratory dynamics}, booktitle = {Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC), 2015 37th Annual International Conference of the IEEE}, year = {2015}, pages = {7885{\textendash}7888}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Faes and L. Citi and Orini, M. and R. Barbieri} } @conference {2621, title = {An instrumented manipulandum for human grasping studies}, booktitle = {14th IEEE/RAS-EMBS International Conference on Rehabilitation Robotics, ICORR 2015}, year = {2015}, pages = {169-174}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Singapore, 11-14 Aug. 2015}, doi = {10.1109/ICORR.2015.7281194}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7281194}, author = {Altobelli, A and M. Bianchi and M. G. Catalano and A. Serio and Baud-Bovy, G and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2336, title = {Kinematic Analysis and Design Considerations for Optimal Base Frame Arrangement of Humanoid Shoulders}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA2015)}, year = {2015}, pages = {2710 - 2715}, address = {Seattle, USA, 25 - 30 May}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ICRA.2015.7139566}, author = {M. Bagheri and A. Ajoudani and J. Lee and D. G. Caldwell and N G Tsagarakis} } @conference {3247, title = {Lower instantaneous entropy of heartbeat dynamics during seizures in untreated temporal lobe epilepsy}, booktitle = {Computing in Cardiology Conference (CinC), 2015}, year = {2015}, pages = {1037{\textendash}1040}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Barbieri, R. and G. Valenza and L. Citi and F. Placidi and F. Izzi and M. Albanese and M. Marciani and M. Guerrisi and A. Romigi and N. Toschi} } @article {2500, title = {Magnetic-Driven Pointing System: a Feasibility Study}, journal = {Sensors Journal}, volume = {15 (2)}, year = {2015}, month = {02/2015}, pages = {703 - 714}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Russo and C. De Maria and Cerulli, G. and G. Vozzi} } @article {2716, title = {Music, clicks, and their imaginations favor differently the event-based timing component for rhythmic movements}, journal = {EXPERIMENTAL BRAIN RESEARCH}, volume = {233}, year = {2015}, pages = {1945{\textendash}1961}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0014-4819}, doi = {10.1007/s00221-015-4267-z}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1007/s00221-015-4267-z}, author = {Bravi, R. and E. Quarta and Del Tongo, C. and N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti and Minciacchi, D.} } @article {2717, title = {Neuro-fuzzy physiological computing to assess stress levels in virtual reality therapy}, journal = {INTERACTING WITH COMPUTERS}, volume = {27}, year = {2015}, pages = {521{\textendash}533}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0953-5438}, doi = {10.1093/iwc/iwv010}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1093/iwc/iwv010}, author = {Tartarisco, G. and N. Carbonaro and A. Tonacci and G. M. Bernava and A. Arnao and G. Crifaci and P. Cipresso and G. Riva and A. Gaggioli and D. De Rossi and A. Tognetti and G. Pioggia} } @article {3239, title = {Nonlinear digital signal processing in mental health: characterization of major depression using instantaneous entropy measures of heartbeat dynamics}, journal = {Frontiers in physiology}, volume = {6}, year = {2015}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and R. G. Garcia and L. Citi and E. P. Scilingo and C. A. Tomaz and R. Barbieri} } @conference {2512, title = {P2SF: Physically-based Point Spread Function for digital image processing}, booktitle = {Imaging Systems and Applications}, year = {2015}, pages = {IT3A{\textendash}5}, publisher = {Optical Society of America}, organization = {Optical Society of America}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {M. Pieroni and B. Wandell and P. Catrysse and D. De Rossi} } @conference {2478, title = {Potential merits for space robotics from novel concepts of actuation for soft robotics}, booktitle = {Advanced Space Technologies for Robotics and Automation (ASTRA) }, year = {2015}, address = {Noordwijk, The Netherlands May 11-13, 2015}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {G. Mathijssen and S. Terryn and R. Funemont and M. Garabini and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and D. Lefeber and A. Bicchi and B. Vanderborght} } @article {2506, title = {Profile analysis of hepatic porcine and murine brain tissue slices obtained with a vibratome}, journal = {PeerJ}, volume = {3:e932}, year = {2015}, month = {04/2015}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.7717/peerj.932}, url = {https://peerj.com/articles/932/}, author = {G. Mattei and I. Cristiani and C. Magliaro and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {2543, title = {Soft Actuation in Cyclic Motions: Stiffness Profile Optimization for Energy Efficiency}, booktitle = {15th IEEE RAS Humanoids Conference (HUMANOIDS2015)}, year = {2015}, note = {

saphari walkman

}, pages = {107 - 113}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, abstract = {
In this paper, we investigate the role of variable stiffness in the reduction of the energy cost for mechanical systems that perform desired tasks. The objective is to assess the use of Variable Stiffness Actuation (VSA) by determining an optimal stiffness profile and the associated energy cost of performing a desired task. For the analysis we consider mechanical systems of n-Degrees of Freedom (DoF), using VSA. We find an analytical solution that expresses the optimal stiffness profile during the task as a function of joint trajectories. This stiffness profile can be either constant or variable in time, and it minimizes a cost function, when performing a desired task.
We calculate the cost related to the torque of the system and the additional cost of changing or keeping a stiffness actively constant. Additionally, we discuss some cases for which it is worth to change the stiffness during a task and cases for which a constant stiffness may be better solution. Furthermore, from simulations and experiments we show cases in which using a variable stiffness profile allows cost savings w.r.t. constant
stiffness. The use of variable stiffness depends on the task, i.e. on the joint trajectories and their frequency, as well as on the mechanical implementation of the actuator used.
}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/HUMANOIDS.2015.7363522}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7363522}, author = {A. Velasco and M. Garabini and M. G. Catalano and A. Bicchi} } @article {2158, title = {Tele- Impedance based Assistive Control for a Compliant Knee Exoskeleton: Stiffness Augmentation and Motion Assistance}, journal = {Robotics and Autonomous Systems}, volume = {73 part A}, year = {2015}, note = {

special issue\ "Wearable Robotics"

}, month = {11/2015}, pages = {78-90}, abstract = {

This paper presents a tele-impedance based assistive control scheme for a knee exoskeleton device. The proposed controller captures the user{\textquoteright}s intent to generate task-related assistive torques by means of the exoskeleton in different phases of the subject{\textquoteright}s normal activity. To do so, a detailed musculoskeletal model of the human knee is developed and experimentally calibrated to best match the user{\textquoteright}s kinematic and dynamic behavior. Three dominant antagonistic muscle pairs are used in our model, in which electromyography (EMG) signals are acquired, processed and used for the estimation of the knee joint torque, trajectory and the stiffness trend, in real time. The estimated stiffness trend is then scaled and mapped to a task-related stiffness interval to agree with the desired degree of assistance. The desired stiffness and equilibrium trajectories are then tracked by the exoskeleton{\textquoteright}s impedance controller. As a consequence, while minimum muscular activity corresponds to low stiffness, i.e.\ highly transparent motion, higher co-contractions result in a stiffer joint and a greater level of assistance. To evaluate the robustness of the proposed technique, a study of the dynamics of the human{\textendash}exoskeleton system is conducted, while the stability in the steady state and transient condition is investigated. In addition, experimental results of standing-up and sitting-down tasks are demonstrated to further investigate the capabilities of the controller. The results indicate that the compliant knee exoskeleton, incorporating the proposed tele-impedance controller, can effectively generate assistive actions that are volitionally and intuitively controlled by the user{\textquoteright}s muscle activity.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1016/j.robot.2014.09.027}, url = {http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921889014002127}, author = {N. Karavas and A. Ajoudani and N G Tsagarakis and J. Saglia and A. Bicchi and D. Caldwell} } @article {2080, title = {Variable Stiffness Actuators: the user{\textquoteright}s point of view}, journal = {Int. J. Robotics Research}, volume = {34}, year = {2015}, note = {

Extensions.zip

}, month = {05/2015}, pages = {727-743}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1177/0278364914566515}, url = {http://ijr.sagepub.com/cgi/reprint/0278364914566515v1.pdf?ijkey=anmgudvoLz7ZloP\&keytype=finite}, author = {G. Grioli and S. Wolf and M. Garabini and M. G. Catalano and E. Burdet and D. G. Caldwell and R. Carloni and W. Friedl and M. Grebenstein and M. Laffranchi and D. Lefeber and S. Stramigioli and N G Tsagarakis and M. Van Damme and B. Vanderborght and A Albu-Schaeffer and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2450, title = {Variable Stiffness Control for Oscillation Damping}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference of Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS2015)}, year = {2015}, note = {
This work is supported by the EC under the grant agreements no.611832 Walk-Man and ICT-287513 {\textquotedblleft}SAPHARI{\textquotedblright}
}, pages = {6543 - 6550}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Hamburg, Germany, September 28 - October 02, 2015}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/IROS.2015.7354312}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7354312}, author = {G M Gasparri and M. Garabini and L. Pallottino and L. Malagia and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @article {2715, title = {Wearable goniometer and accelerometer sensory fusion for knee joint angle measurement in daily-life}, journal = {SENSORS}, volume = {15}, year = {2015}, pages = {28435{\textendash}28455}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1424-8220}, doi = {10.3390/s151128435}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.3390/s151128435}, author = {A. Tognetti and F. Lorussi and N. Carbonaro and D. De Rossi} } @article {1665, title = {Adaptive Synergies for the Design and Control of the Pisa/IIT SoftHand}, journal = {International Journal of Robotics Research}, volume = {33}, year = {2014}, pages = {768{\textendash}782}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1177/0278364913518998}, author = {M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and E. Farnioli and A. Serio and C. Piazza and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2342, title = {Assessment of Dynamic Autonomic Changes with Posture using Instantaneous Entropy Measures}, booktitle = {Computers in Cardiology}, volume = { 41}, year = {2014}, note = {

Winner of a Mortara Fellowship

}, pages = {489-492}, address = {Cambridge (MA, USA)}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and E. P. Scilingo and R. Barbieri} } @article {2192, title = {An Autologously Generated Platelet-Rich Plasma Suturable Membrane May Enhance Peripheral Nerve Regeneration after Neurorraphy in an Acute Injury Model of Sciatic Nerve Neurotmesis}, journal = {Journal of reconstructive microsurgery}, year = {2014}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Giannessi, E. and Coli, A. and Stornelli, M. R. and Miragliotta, V. and Pirone, A. and Lenzi, C. and Burchielli, S. and G. Vozzi and C. De Maria and Giorgetti, M.} } @article {2145, title = {Characterization of Depressive States in Bipolar Patients using Wearable Textile Technology and Instantaneous Heart Rate Variability Assessment}, journal = {IEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics}, year = {2014}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and C. Gentili and A Lanata and E. P. Scilingo and R. Barbieri} } @article {2217, title = {Collagen-gelatin-genipin-hydroxyapatite composite scaffolds colonized by human primary osteoblasts are suitable for bone tissue engineering applications: In vitro evidences}, journal = {Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part A}, volume = {102}, year = {2014}, pages = {1415{\textendash}1421}, author = {G. Vozzi and Corallo, C. and Carta, S. and Fortina, M. and Gattazzo, F. and Galletti, M. and N. Giordano} } @conference {2214, title = {Daily-Life Monitoring of Stroke Survivors Motor Performance: The INTERACTION Sensing System}, year = {2014}, abstract = {

The objective of the INTERACTION Eu project is to develop and validate an unobtrusive and modular system for monitoring daily life activities, physical interactions with the environment and for training upper and lower extremity motor function in stroke subjects. This paper describes the development and preliminary testing of the project sensing platform made of sensing shirt, trousers, gloves and shoes. Modular prototypes were designed and built considering the minimal set of inertial, force and textile sensors that may enable an efficient monitoring of stroke patients. The single sensing elements are described and the results of their preliminary lab-level testing are reported.

}, author = {A. Tognetti and F. Lorussi and N. Carbonaro and D. De Rossi and De Toma, G. and Mancuso, C. and Paradiso, R. and Luinge, H. and Reenalda, J. and Droog, E. and Veltink, P.} } @article {2228, title = {A Decision Support System for Real-Time Stress Detection During Virtual Reality Exposure}, year = {2014}, pages = {114{\textendash}120}, abstract = {

Virtual Reality (VR) is increasingly being used in combination with psycho-physiological measures to improve assessment of distress in mental health research and therapy. However, the analysis and interpretation of multiple physiological measures is time consuming and requires specific skills, which are not available to most clinicians. To address this issue, we designed and developed a Decision Support System (DSS) for automatic classification of stress levels during exposure to VR environments. The DSS integrates different biosensor data (ECG, breathing rate, EEG) and behavioral data (body gestures correlated with stress), following a training process in which self-rated and clinical-rated stress levels are used as ground truth. Detected stress events for each VR session are reported to the therapist as an aggregated value (ranging from 0 to 1) and graphically displayed on a diagram accessible by the therapist through a web-based interface.

}, doi = {10.3233/978-1-61499-375-9-114}, author = {A. Gaggioli and P. Cipresso and Serino, S. and G. Pioggia and Tartarisco, G. and Baldus, G. and Corda, D. and M. Ferro and N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti and D. De Rossi and Giakoumis, D. and Tzovaras, D. and Riera, A. and G. Riva} } @article {2203, title = {Development of a novel Micro-Ablation System to realise micrometric and well-defined hydrogel structures for Tissue Engineering applications}, journal = {Rapid Prototyping Journal}, volume = {20}, year = {2014}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {C. De Maria and Grassi, L. and Vozzi, F. and A. Ahluwalia and G. Vozzi and Campbell, R. I.} } @article {2242, title = {Enabling variable-stiffness hand rehabilitation orthoses with dielectric elastomer transducers}, journal = {Medical Engineering and Physics}, volume = {36}, year = {2014}, pages = {205{\textendash}211}, abstract = {

Patients affected by motor disorders of the hand and having residual voluntary movements of fingers or wrist can benefit from self-rehabilitation exercises performed with so-called dynamic hand splints. These systems consist of orthoses equipped with elastic cords or springs, which either provide a sustained stretch or resist voluntary movements of fingers or wrist. These simple systems are limited by the impossibility of modulating the mechanical stiffness. This limitation does not allow for customizations and real-time control of the training exercise, which would improve the rehabilitation efficacy. To overcome this limitation, {\textquoteright}active{\textquoteright} orthoses equipped with devices that allow for electrical control of the mechanical stiffness are needed. Here, we report on a solution that relies on compact and light-weight electroactive elastic transducers that replace the passive elastic components. We developed a variable-stiffness transducer made of dielectric elastomers, as the most performing types of electromechanically active polymers. The transducer was manufactured with a silicone film and tested with a purposely-developed stiffness control strategy that allowed for electrical modulations of the force-elongation response. Results showed that the proposed new technology is a promising and viable solution to develop electrically controllable dynamic hand orthoses for hand rehabilitation. ? 2013 IPEM.

}, doi = {10.1016/j.medengphy.2013.10.015}, author = {F. Carpi and G. Frediani and C. Gerboni and J. Gemignani and D. De Rossi} } @article {2340, title = {Estimation of Instantaneous Complex Dynamics through Lyapunov Exponents: A Study on Heartbeat Dynamics}, journal = {PLoS One}, volume = {9}, year = {2014}, pages = {e105622}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and R. Barbieri} } @conference {2233, title = {Exploiting hand kinematic synergies and wearable under-sensing for hand functional grasp recognition}, booktitle = { 4th International Conference on Wireless Mobile Communication and Healthcare - "Transforming healthcare through innovations in mobile and wireless technologies" }, year = {2014}, address = {November 3{\textendash}5, 2014 Athens, Greece}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = { http://dx.doi.org/10.4108/icst.mobihealth.2014.257228}, author = {M. Bianchi and N. Carbonaro and E. Battaglia and F. Lorussi and A. Bicchi and D. De Rossi and A. Tognetti} } @article {2211, title = {Exploiting wearable goniometer technology for motion sensing gloves}, journal = {IEEE JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL AND HEALTH INFORMATICS}, year = {2014}, abstract = {

This paper presents an innovative wearable kinesthetic glove realized with knitted piezoresistive fabric (KPF) sensor technology. The glove is conceived to capture hand movement and gesture by using KPF in a double layer configuration working as angular sensors (electro-goniometers). The sensing glove prototype is endowed by three KPF goniometers, used to track flexion and extension movement of metacarpo-phalangeal joint of thumb, index and middle fingers. The glove is devoted to the continuous monitoring of patients during their daily life activities, in particular for stroke survivors during their rehabilitation. The prototype performances have been evaluated in comparison with an optical tracking system considered as a gold standard both for relieving static and dynamic posture and gesture of the hand. The introduced prototype has shown very interesting figures of merit. The angular error, evaluated through the standard Bland Altman analysis, has been estimated in ? 3? which is slightly less accurate than commercial electro-goniometers. Moreover, a new conceptual prototype design, preliminary evaluated within this work, is presented and discussed in order to solve actual limitations in terms of number and type of sensor connections, avoiding mechanical constraints given by metallic inextensible wires and improving user comfort.

}, doi = {10.1109/JBHI.2014.2324293}, author = {N. Carbonaro and Dalle Mura, G. and F. Lorussi and Paradiso, R. and D. De Rossi and A. Tognetti} } @conference {2081, title = {Exploring haptic feedback for the Pisa/IIT SoftHand}, booktitle = {Haptics Symposium (HAPTICS), 2014 IEEE}, year = {2014}, address = {Houston, TX}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/HAPTICS.2014.6775572}, author = {S. B. Godfrey and A. Ajoudani and M. Bianchi and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @article {1668, title = {Exploring Teleimpedance and Tactile Feedback for Intuitive Control of the Pisa/IIT SoftHand}, journal = { IEEE Transactions on Haptics}, volume = {7}, year = {2014}, pages = {203 - 215}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/TOH.2014.2309142 }, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=6755554}, author = {A. Ajoudani and S. B. Godfrey and M. G. Catalano and M. Bianchi and G. Grioli and N G Tsagarakis and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2232, title = {Grasping with Soft Hands}, booktitle = {IEEE-RAS International Conference on Humanoid Robots (HUMANOIDS 2014)}, year = {2014}, pages = {581 - 587}, address = {Madrid, Spain, November 18 - 20}, abstract = {

Despite some prematurely optimistic claims, the ability of robots to grasp general objects in unstructured environments still remains far behind that of humans. This is not solely caused by differences in the mechanics of hands: indeed, we show that human use of a simple robot hand (the Pisa/IIT SoftHand) can afford capabilities that are comparable to natural grasping. It is through the observation of such human-directed robot hand operations that we realized how fundamental in everyday grasping and manipulation is the role of hand compliance, which is used to adapt to the shape of surrounding objects. Objects and environmental constraints are in turn used to functionally shape the hand, going beyond its nominal kinematic limits by exploiting structural softness. In this paper, we set out to study grasp planning for hands that are simple {\textemdash} in the sense of low number of actuated degrees of freedom (one for the Pisa/IIT SoftHand) {\textemdash} but are soft, i.e. continuously deformable in an infinity of possible shapes through interaction with objects. After general considerations on the change of paradigm in grasp planning that this setting brings about with respect to classical rigid multi-dof grasp planning, we present a procedure to extract grasp affordances for the Pisa/IIT SoftHand through physically accurate numerical simulations. The selected grasps are then successfully tested in an experimental scenario.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/HUMANOIDS.2014.7041421}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/articleDetails.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7041421\&queryText\%3DGrasping+with+Soft+Hands}, author = {M. Bonilla and E. Farnioli and C. Piazza and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and M. Garabini and M Gabiccini and A. Bicchi} } @inbook {1694, title = {HANDS.DVI: A DeVice-Independent programming and control framework for robotic HANDS}, booktitle = {Gearing up and accelerating cross-fertilization between academic and industrial robotics research in Europe - Technology transfer experiments from the ECHORD project}, volume = {94}, number = {Springer Tracts in Advanced Robotics}, year = {2014}, pages = {197-215}, abstract = {

The scientific goal of HANDS.DVI consists of developing a common
framework to programming robotic hands independently from their kinematics,
mechanical construction, and sensor equipment complexity. Recent results on the
organization of the human hand in grasping and manipulation are the inspiration
for this experiment. The reduced set of parameters that we effectively use to control
our hands is known in the literature as the set of synergies. The synergistic
organization of the human hand is the theoretical foundation of the innovative approach
to design a unified framework for robotic hands control. Theoretical tools
have been studied to design a suitable mapping function of the control action (decomposed
in its elemental action) from a human hand model domain onto the
articulated robotic hand co-domain. The developed control framework has been
applied on an experimental set up consisting of two robotic hands with dissimilar
kinematics grasping an object instrumented with force sensors.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-02934-4_10}, author = {G. Salvietti and G. Gioioso and M. Malvezzi and D Prattichizzo and A. Serio and E. Farnioli and M Gabiccini and A. Bicchi and I. Sarakoglou and N G Tsagarakis and D. G. Caldwell} } @conference {2119, title = {Haptic Exploration of Unknown Surfaces with Discontinuities}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE/RSJ Intl Conf. on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2014)}, year = {2014}, month = {09/2014}, pages = {1255 - 1260}, address = {Chicago, USA}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/IROS.2014.6942718}, url = {http://kormushev.com/papers/Jamisola_IROS-2014.pdf}, author = {Jamisola, R. S. and Kormushev, P. and A. Bicchi and D. G. Caldwell} } @conference {2185, title = {I-CLIPS Brain: A Hybrid Cognitive System for Social Robots }, booktitle = { Living Machines 2014}, year = {2014}, pages = {213-224}, publisher = {Springer-Verlag}, organization = {Springer-Verlag}, address = { Milan, Italy, July 30 {\textendash} August 1}, abstract = {

Sensing and interpreting the interlocutor{\textquoteright}s social behaviours is a core challenge in the development of social robots. Social robots require both an innovative sensory apparatus able to perceive the {\textquotedblleft}social and emotional world{\textquotedblright} in which they act and a cognitive system able to manage this incoming sensory information and plan an organized and pondered response. In order to allow scientists to design cognitive models for this new generation of social machines, it is necessary to develop control architectures that can be easily used also by researchers without technical skills of programming such as psychologists and neuroscientists. In this work an innovative hybrid deliberative/reactive cognitive architecture for controlling a social humanoid robot is presented. Design and implementation of the overall architecture take inspiration from the human nervous system. In particular, the cognitive system is based on the Damasio{\textquoteright}s thesis. The architecture has been preliminary tested with the FACE robot. A social behaviour has been modeled to make FACE able to properly follow a human subject during a basic social interaction task and perform facial expressions as a reaction to the social context.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, isbn = {978-3-319-09434-2}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-09435-9_19}, url = {http://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-09435-9_19}, author = {D. Mazzei and Cominelli, L. and Lazzeri, N. and A. Zaraki and D. De Rossi} } @article {2220, title = {In vitro development of engineered muscle using a scaffold based on the pressure-activated microsyringe (PAM) technique}, journal = {Journal of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine}, year = {2014}, author = {D. Cei and Malena, A. and C. De Maria and Loro, E. and Sandri, F. and Moro, G. and Bettio, S. and Vergani, L. and G. Vozzi} } @article {2209, title = {Inference of Human Affective States from Psychophysiological Measurements Extracted under Ecologically Valid Conditions}, journal = {FRONTIERS IN NEUROSCIENCE}, volume = {8}, year = {2014}, abstract = {

Compared to standard laboratory protocols, the measurement of psychophysiological signals in real world experiments poses technical and methodological challenges due to external factors that cannot be directly controlled. To address this problem, we propose a hybrid approach based on an immersive and human accessible space called the eXperience Induction Machine (XIM), that incorporates the advantages of a laboratory within a life-like setting. The XIM integrates unobtrusive wearable sensors for the acquisition of psychophysiological signals suitable for ambulatory emotion research. In this paper, we present results from two different studies conducted to validate the XIM as a general-purpose sensing infrastructure for the study of human affective states under ecologically valid conditions. In the first investigation, we recorded and classified signals from subjects exposed to pictorial stimuli corresponding to a range of arousal levels, while they were free to walk and gesticulate. In the second study, we designed an experiment that follows the classical conditioning paradigm, a well-known procedure in the behavioral sciences, with the additional feature that participants were free to move in the physical space, as opposed to similar studies measuring physiological signals in constrained laboratory settings. Our results indicate that, by using our sensing infrastructure, it is indeed possible to infer human event-elicited affective states through measurements of psychophysiological signals under ecological conditions.

}, doi = {10.3389/fnins.2014.00286}, author = {A. Betella and R. Zucca and Cetnarski, A and A. Greco and A Lanata and D. Mazzei and A. Tognetti and X. D. Arsiwalla and P Omedas and D. De Rossi and Verschure, P} } @article {2269, title = {Inhomogeneous point-process entropy: An instantaneous measure of complexity in discrete systems}, journal = {Physical Review E}, volume = {89}, year = {2014}, author = {G. Valenza and Citi, L. and E. P. Scilingo and Barbieri, R.} } @article {2247, title = {Instantaneous monitoring of heart beat dynamics during anesthesia and sedation}, journal = {Journal of Computational Surgery}, volume = {3}, year = {2014}, author = {G. Valenza and O. Akeju and K. J. Pavone and L. Citi and K. E. Hartnack and A. Sampson and Purdon, P.L. and Brown, E.N. and R. Barbieri} } @conference {2213, title = {Interpreting Psychophysiological States Using Unobtrusive Wearable Sensors in Virtual Reality}, booktitle = {Proc. of The Seventh International Conference on Advances in Computer-Human Interactions}, year = {2014}, abstract = {

One of the main challenges in the study of human be- havior is to quantitatively assess the participants? affective states by measuring their psychophysiological signals in ecologically valid conditions. The quality of the acquired data, in fact, is often poor due to artifacts generated by natural interactions such as full body movements and gestures. We created a technology to address this problem. We enhanced the eXperience Induction Machine (XIM), an immersive space we built to conduct experiments on human behavior, with unobtrusive wearable sensors that measure electrocardiogram, breathing rate and electrodermal response. We conducted an empirical validation where participants wearing these sensors were free to move in the XIM space while exposed to a series of visual stimuli taken from the International Affective Picture System (IAPS). Our main result consists in the quan- titative estimation of the arousal range of the affective stimuli through the analysis of participants? psychophysiological states. Taken together, our findings show that the XIM constitutes a novel tool to study human behavior in life-like conditions.

}, author = {A. Betella and Pacheco, D. and R. Zucca and X. D. Arsiwalla and P Omedas and A Lanata and D. Mazzei and A. Tognetti and A. Greco and N. Carbonaro and Wagner, J. and Lingenfelser, F. and Andr{\`e}, E. and D. De Rossi and Verschure, P.} } @conference {2159, title = {Manipulation Framework for Compliant Humanoid COMAN: Application to a Valve Turning Task}, booktitle = {IEEE-RAS International Conference on Humanoid Robots (HUMANOIDS 2014)}, year = {2014}, pages = {664 - 670}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Madrid, Spain, November 18 - 20}, abstract = {

With the purpose of achieving a desired interaction performance for our compliant humanoid robot (COMAN), in this paper we propose a semi-autonomous control framework and evaluate it experimentally in a valve turning setup. The control structure consists of various modules and interfaces to identify the valve, locate the robot in front of it and perform the manipulation. The manipulation module implements four motion primitives (Reach, Grasp, Rotate and Disengage) and realizes the corresponding desired impedance profile for each phase to accomplish the task. In this direction, to establish a stable and compliant contact between the valve and the robot hands, while being able to generate the sufficient rotational torques depending on the valve{\textquoteright}s friction, Rotate incorporates a novel dual-arm impedance control technique to plan and realize a task-appropriate impedance profile. Results of the implementation of the proposed control framework are firstly evaluated in simulation studies using Gazebo. Subsequent experimental results highlight the efficiency of the proposed impedance planning and control in generation of the required interaction forces to accomplish the task.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/HUMANOIDS.2014.7041434}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7041434}, author = {A. Ajoudani and J. Lee and A. Rocchi and M. Ferrati and E. Mingo Hoffman and A Settimi and D. G. Caldwell and A. Bicchi and N G Tsagarakis} } @conference {2180, title = {Method for supporting the selection of robot grippers}, booktitle = {24th CIRP Design Conference}, year = {2014}, address = {Milan, April 14 - 16}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {G Fantoni and Capiferri, S. and Tilli, J.} } @article {2032, title = {Modulation of isochronous movements in a flexible environment: links between motion and auditory experience}, journal = {Experimental Brain Research}, volume = {232}, year = {2014}, month = {06/2014}, pages = {1663 - 1675}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1007/s00221-014-3845-9}, author = {Bravi, R. and Del Tongo, C. and Cohen, E. J. and Dalle Mura, G. and A. Tognetti and Minciacchi, D.} } @conference {2198, title = {Multimaterial and multiscale biofabrication for smart scaffolds}, booktitle = {JOURNAL OF TISSUE ENGINEERING AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE}, year = {2014}, pages = {470{\textendash}470}, publisher = {WILEY-BLACKWELL 111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ USA}, organization = {WILEY-BLACKWELL 111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ USA}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {C. De Maria and Carrabba, M. and G. Criscenti and G. Orsi and F. Montemurro and G. Vozzi} } @conference {2199, title = {Nanoparticles doped sol-gel ink for inkjet printers}, booktitle = {JOURNAL OF TISSUE ENGINEERING AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE}, year = {2014}, pages = {197{\textendash}198}, publisher = {WILEY-BLACKWELL 111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ USA}, organization = {WILEY-BLACKWELL 111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ USA}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Orsi and C. De Maria and F. Montemurro and Chauhan, V. and Aylott, J. and G. Vozzi} } @article {2212, title = {New generation of wearable goniometers for motion capture systems}, journal = {JOURNAL OF NEUROENGINEERING AND REHABILITATION}, volume = {11}, year = {2014}, abstract = {

Background Monitoring joint angles through wearable systems enables human posture and gesture to be reconstructed as a support for physical rehabilitation both in clinics and at the patient{\textquoteright}s home. A new generation of wearable goniometers based on knitted piezoresistive fabric (KPF) technology is presented. Methods KPF single-and double-layer devices were designed and characterized under stretching and bending to work as strain sensors and goniometers. The theoretical working principle and the derived electromechanical model, previously proved for carbon elastomer sensors, were generalized to KPF. The devices were used to correlate angles and piezoresistive fabric behaviour, to highlight the differences in terms of performance between the single layer and the double layer sensors. A fast calibration procedure is also proposed. Results The proposed device was tested both in static and dynamic conditions in comparison with standard electrogoniometers and inertial measurement units respectively. KPF goniometer capabilities in angle detection were experimentally proved and a discussion of the device measurement errors of is provided. The paper concludes with an analysis of sensor accuracy and hysteresis reduction in particular configurations. Conclusions Double layer KPF goniometers showed a promising performance in terms of angle measurements both in quasi-static and dynamic working mode for velocities typical of human movement. A further approach consisting of a combination of multiple sensors to increase accuracy via sensor fusion technique has been presented.

}, doi = {10.1186/1743-0003-11-56}, author = {A. Tognetti and F. Lorussi and Dalle Mura, G. and N. Carbonaro and Pacelli, M. and Paradiso, R. and D. De Rossi} } @conference {2183, title = {Object shaping with a sonotrode}, booktitle = { 25th symposium on Free Form Fabrication}, year = {2014}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {Tilli, J. and G Fantoni and Currenti, S. and Razionale, A. V.} } @conference {2151, title = {Open Source VSA-CubeBots for Rapid Soft Robot Prototyping }, booktitle = { Robot Makers - Workshop in conjunction with 2014 Robotics Science and Systems}, year = {2014}, address = { July 12, 2014, Berkeley, California }, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {K. Melo and M. Garabini and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and L. Malagia and A. Bicchi} } @article {2153, title = {Peripheral Machine Interfaces: going beyond traditional surface electromyography}, journal = {Frontiers in Neurorobotics}, volume = {8}, year = {2014}, month = {08/2014}, pages = {1 - 17}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.3389/fnbot.2014.00022}, author = {C. Castellini and P. Artemiadis and M. Wininger and A. Ajoudani and M. Alimusaj and A. Bicchi and B. Caputo and W. Craelius and S. Dosen and K. Englehart and D. Farina and A. Gijsberts and S. B. Godfrey and L. Hargrove and M. Ison and T. Kuiken and M. Markovic and P. M. Pilarski and R. Rupp and E. Scheme} } @conference {1996, title = {Piezoresistive Goniometer Network for Sensing Gloves}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the XIII Mediterranean Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering and Computing}, year = {2014}, pages = {1547{\textendash}1550}, publisher = {Springer International Publishing}, organization = {Springer International Publishing}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-00846-2_382}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1007/978-3-319-00846-2_382}, author = {Dalle Mura, G. and F. Lorussi and A. Tognetti and G. Anania and N. Carbonaro and M. Pacelli and R. Paradiso and D. De Rossi} } @article {2341, title = {Point-Process Nonlinear Autonomic Assessment of Depressive States in Bipolar Patients}, journal = {Methods of Information in Medicine}, volume = {53}, year = {2014}, note = {

invited

}, pages = {296{\textendash}302}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and C. Gentili and A Lanata and E. P. Scilingo and R. Barbieri} } @article {2210, title = {Psychometric Assessment of Cardio-Respiratory Activity Using a Mobile Platform}, journal = {INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HANDHELD COMPUTING RESEARCH}, volume = {5}, year = {2014}, pages = {13{\textendash}29}, abstract = {

Stress is an increasingly recognized phenomenon that has negative effects on growing numbers of people. Stress assessment is a complex issue, but different studies have shown that monitoring user psychophysi- ological parameter during daily life can be greatly helpful in stress evaluation. In this context, the European Collaborative Project INTERSTRESS is aimed at designing and developing advanced simulation and sensing technologies for the assessment and treatment of psychological stress, based on mobile biosensors.In this study a wearable biosensor platform able to collect physiological and behavioral parameters is reported. The developed mobile platform, in terms of hardware and processing algorithms, is described. Moreover the use of this wearable biosensor platform in combination with advanced simulation technologies, such as virtual reality, offer interesting opportunities for innovative personal health-care solutions to stress.

}, doi = {10.4018/ijhcr.2014010102}, author = {N. Carbonaro and Cipresso, P and A. Tognetti and G. Anania and D. De Rossi and Pallavicini, F and A. Gaggioli and Riva, G} } @conference {2222, title = {Realization of a soft-MI electrospun scaffold for tissue engineering applications}, booktitle = {JOURNAL OF TISSUE ENGINEERING AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE}, year = {2014}, pages = {255{\textendash}256}, publisher = {WILEY-BLACKWELL 111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ USA}, organization = {WILEY-BLACKWELL 111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ USA}, author = {G. Criscenti and Cerulli, G. and Saris, D. and Van Blitterswijk, C. and G. Vozzi and Fernandes, H. and Moroni, L.} } @article {2149, title = {Revealing Real-Time Emotional Responses: a Personalized Assessment based on Heartbeat Dynamics}, journal = {Nature Scientific Reports}, volume = {4}, year = {2014}, pages = {1{\textendash}13}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and A Lanata and E. P. Scilingo and R. Barbieri} } @conference {2275, title = {Sensorized Squeeze Pressure Bioreactor For mechanical modulation of cardiomyocyte phenotype}, booktitle = {Journal of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine}, volume = {8 Suppl 1}, year = {2014}, pages = {67{\textendash}8}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1002/term.1943}, url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24912686}, author = {S. Giusti and Vozzi, F. and F. Pagliari and Tirella, A and D. Mazzei and Cabiati, M and S. del Ry and A. Ahluwalia} } @article {2234, title = {Special Issue on the Mechanics and Design of Robotic Hands}, year = {2014}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, author = {Dollar, A. and A. Bicchi and M. Cutkosky and Howe, D.} } @conference {2083, title = {ThimbleSense: A new wearable tactile device for human and robotic fingers }, booktitle = {Haptics Symposium (HAPTICS), 2014 IEEE}, year = {2014}, address = {Houston, TX}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/HAPTICS.2014.6775571}, author = {E. Battaglia and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and M. Bianchi and A. Serio and M. Santello and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2130, title = {ThimbleSense: An Individual-Digit Wearable Tactile Sensor for Experimental Grasp Studies}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation - ICRA 2014}, year = {2014}, pages = {2728 - 2735 }, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = { Hong Kong, May 31 - June 7, 2014}, abstract = {

Measuring contact forces applied by a hand to a grasped object is a necessary step to understand the mysteries that still hide in the unparalleled human grasping ability. Nevertheless, simultaneous collection of information about the position of contacts and about the magnitude and direction of forces is still an elusive task. In this paper we introduce a wearable device that addresses this problem, and can be used to measure generalized forces during grasping. By assembling two supports around a commercial 6-axis force/torque sensor we obtain a thimble that can be easily positioned on a fingertip. The device is used in conjunction with an active marker-based motion capture system to simultaneously obtain absolute position and orientation of the thimbles, without requiring any assumptions on the kinematics of the hand. Finally, using the contact centroid algorithm, introduced in [1], position of contact points during grasping are determined. This paper shows the design and implementation of the device, as well as some preliminary experimental validation.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ICRA.2014.6907250 }, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=6907250}, author = {E. Battaglia and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and M. Santello and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2223, title = {On Time-Optimal Trajectories for Differential Drive Vehicles with Field-Of-View Constraints}, booktitle = {IEEE Conference on Decision and Control (CDC2014)}, year = {2014}, pages = {2191 - 2197}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Los Angeles, USA, December 15-17}, abstract = {

This paper presents the first step toward the study of minimum time trajectories for a differential drive robot, which is equipped with a fixed and limited Field-Of-View (FOV) camera, towards a desired configuration while keeping a given landmark in sight during maneuvers. While several previous works have provided a complete synthesis of shortest paths in case of both nonholonomic and FOV constraints, to the best of our knowledge, this paper represents the first analysis of minimum time trajectories with the two constraints. After showing the extremals of the problem at hand, i.e. straight lines, rotations on the spot, logarithmic spirals and involute of circles, we provide the optimal control laws that steer the vehicle along the path and the cost in terms of time along each extremal. Moreover, we compare some concatenations of extremals in order to reduce the complexity of the problem toward the definition of a sufficient finite set of optimal maneuvers.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, isbn = {978-1-4799-7746-8}, doi = {10.1109/CDC.2014.7039723}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7039723}, author = {Cristofaro, A. and Salaris, P. and L. Pallottino and Giannoni, F. and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2343, title = {Tracking Instantaneous Entropy in Heartbeat Dynamics through Inhomogeneous Point-Process Nonlinear Models}, booktitle = {36th Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC)}, year = {2014}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and E. P. Scilingo and R. Barbieri} } @article {2177, title = {Tuning of the freezing and melting points of [Hmim][NO3] by the addition of water and nitrate salts }, journal = {RSC Advances}, volume = {4}, year = {2014}, pages = {40407 - 40413}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1039/c4ra06290f}, author = {Di Francesco, F. and Ferrari, F. and Moni, L. and Melai, B. and Bernazzania, L. and Chiappe, C.} } @conference {2182, title = {Underwater drilling of foam-like materials and wax using ultrasound technology}, booktitle = {International Conference On Innovative Design And Manufacturing}, year = {2014}, address = {Montreal, Quebec, Canada, August 13-15}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {Tilli, J. and G Fantoni and Currenti, S.} } @conference {2160, title = {Upper-body Impedance Control with an Intuitive Stiffness Emulation for a Door Opening Task}, booktitle = {IEEE-RAS International Conference on Humanoid Robots (HUMANOIDS 2014)}, year = {2014}, pages = {713 - 719}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {Madrid, Spain, November 18 - 20}, abstract = {

The advent of humanoids has brought new challenges in the real-world application. As a part of ongoing efforts to foster functionality of the robot accommodating a real environment, this paper introduces a recent progress on a door opening task with our compliant humanoid, CoMan. We presents a task-prioritized impedance control framework for an upper body system that includes a dual-arm, a waist, two soft hands, and 3D camera. Aimed to create desired responses to open the door, a novel stiffness modulation method is proposed, incorporating a realtime optimization. As a preliminary experiment, a full door-opening scenario (approaching to the door and reaching, grasping, rotating and pulling the door handle) is demonstrated under a semi-autonomous operation with a pilot. The experimental result shows the effectiveness and efficacy of the proposed impedance control approach. Despite of uncertainties from sensory data, the door opening task is successfully achieved and safe and robust interaction is established without creating excessive forces.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/HUMANOIDS.2014.7041441}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=7041441}, author = {J. Lee and A. Ajoudani and E. Mingo Hoffman and A. Rocchi and A Settimi and M. Ferrati and A. Bicchi and N G Tsagarakis and D. G. Caldwell} } @article {2241, title = {Wearable Wireless Tactile Display for Virtual Interactions with Soft Bodies}, journal = {Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology}, volume = {2}, year = {2014}, abstract = {

We describe here a wearable, wireless, compact, and lightweight tactile display, able to mechanically stimulate the fingertip of users, so as to simulate contact with soft bodies in virtual environments. The device was based on dielectric elastomer actuators, as high-performance electromechanically active polymers. The actuator was arranged at the user{\textquoteright}s fingertip, integrated within a plastic case, which also hosted a compact high-voltage circuitry. A custom-made wireless control unit was arranged on the forearm and connected to the display via low-voltage leads. We present the structure of the device and a characterization of it, in terms of electromechanical response and stress relaxation. Furthermore, we present results of a psychophysical test aimed at assessing the ability of the system to generate different levels of force that can be perceived by users.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.3389/fbioe.2014.00031}, url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4150388/}, author = {G. Frediani and D. Mazzei and D. De Rossi and F. Carpi} } @article {1994, title = {An Activity Classifier based on Heart Rate and Accelerometer Data Fusion}, journal = {INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOELECTROMAGNETISM}, volume = {15}, year = {2013}, pages = {7{\textendash}12}, issn = {1456-7857}, author = {Curone, D. and Secco, E. L. and A. Tognetti and G. Magenes} } @article {1781, title = {Collagen VI regulates satellite cell self-renewal and muscle regeneration}, journal = {Nat Commun}, volume = {4}, year = {2013}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1038/ncomms2964}, author = {Urciuolo, A and M. Quarta and V. Morbidoni and Gattazzo, F and S. Molon and P. Grumati and F. Montemurro and F. S. Tedesco and B. Blaauw and G. Cossu and G. Vozzi and T. A. Rando and Bonaldo, P} } @article {1780, title = {Collagen-gelatin-genipin-hydroxyapatite composite scaffolds colonized by human primary osteoblasts are suitable for bone tissue engineering applications: In vitro evidences}, journal = {J Biomed Mater Res A}, year = {2013}, month = {06/2013}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Vozzi and C. Corallo and S. Carta and M. Fortina and Gattazzo, F and M. Galletti and N. Giordano} } @article {1786, title = {Collagen-gelatin-genipin-hydroxyapatite composite scaffolds colonized by human primary osteoblasts are suitable for bone tissue engineering applications: In vitro evidences}, journal = {Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part A}, year = {2013}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1002/jbm.a.34823}, author = {G. Vozzi and C. Corallo and S. Carta and M. Fortina and Gattazzo, F and M. Galletti and N. Giordano} } @conference {1667, title = {Controlling the active surfaces of the Velvet Fingers: sticky to slippy fingers}, booktitle = {IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems, IROS 2013}, year = {2013}, month = {November 3-7}, pages = {5494 - 5499}, address = {Tokyo, Japan}, abstract = {

Industrial grippers are often used for grasping, while in-hand re-orientation and positioning are dealt with by other means. Contact surface engineering has been recently proposed as a possible mean to introduce dexterity in simple grippers, as in the Velvet Fingers smart gripper, a novel concept of end-effector combining simple under-actuated mechanics and high manipulation possibilities, thanks to conveyors which are built in the finger pads. This paper undergoes the modeling and control of the active conveyors of the Velvet Fingers gripper which are rendered able to emulate different levels of friction and to apply tangential thrusts to the contacted objects. Through the paper particular attention is dedicated to the mechanical implementation, sense drive and control electronics of the device. The capabilities of the prototype are showed in some grasping and manipulation experiments.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/IROS.2013.6697152}, url = {http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/login.jsp?tp=\&arnumber=6697152\&url=http\%3A\%2F\%2Fieeexplore.ieee.org\%2Fxpls\%2Fabs_all.jsp\%3Farnumber\%3D6697152}, author = {V. Tincani and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and M. Bonilla and M. Garabini and G Fantoni and A. Bicchi} } @conference {1702, title = {Distributed Multi{\textendash}level Motion Planning for Autonomous Vehicles in Large Scale Industrial Environments}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Emerging Technologies \& Factory Automation (ETFA)}, year = {2013}, month = {09/2013}, pages = {1-8}, abstract = {

In this paper we propose a distributed coordination algorithm for safe and efficient traffic management of heterogeneous robotic agents, moving within dynamic large scale industrial environments. The algorithm consists of a distributed resource{\textendash}sharing protocol involving a re{\textendash}planning strategy. Once every agent is assigned with a desired motion path, the algorithm ensures ordered traffic flows of agents, that avoid inter{\textendash}robot collision and system deadlock (stalls). The algorithm allows multi{\textendash}level representation of the environment, i.e. large or complex rooms may be seen as a unique resource with given capacity at convenience, which makes the approach appealing for complex industrial environments. Under a suitable condition on the maximum number of agents with respect to the capacity of the environment, we prove that the algorithm correctly allows mutual access to shared resources while avoiding deadlocks. The proposed solution requires no centralized mechanism, no shared memory or ground infrastructure support. Only a local inter{\textendash}robot communication is required, i.e. every agent must communicate with a limited number of other spatially adjacent robots. We finally show the effectiveness of the proposed approach by simulations, with application to an industrial scenario.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ETFA.2013.6647973 }, author = {L. Cancemi and A. Fagiolini and L. Pallottino} } @article {2250, title = {FDTD Analysis of a Radiofrequency Knee Coil for Low-Field MRI: Sample-Induced Resistance and Decoupling Evaluation }, journal = {APPLIED MAGNETIC RESONANCE}, volume = {44}, year = {2013}, pages = {1393 - 1403}, doi = {10.1007/s00723-013-0488-0}, author = {Morelli, M. S. and V. Hartwig and Tassano, S. and N. Vanello and V. Positano and M. F. Santarelli and Carrozzi, A. and L. Landini and G. Giovannetti} } @conference {1438, title = {Implementation and Control of the Velvet Fingers: a Dexterous Gripper with Active Surfaces}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA2013)}, year = {2013}, pages = {2744 - 2750}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, url = {10.1109/ICRA.2013.6630955 }, author = {V. Tincani and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and M. Garabini and S. Grechi and G Fantoni and A. Bicchi} } @article {1791, title = {In vitro toxicological screening of nanoparticles on primary human endothelial cells and the role of flow in modulating cell response}, journal = {Nanotoxicology}, year = {2013}, abstract = {

Abstract After passage through biological barriers, nanomaterials inevitably end up in contact with the vascular endothelium and physiological flow, and can induce cardiovascular damage. In this study the toxicity and sublethal effects of 6 nanoparticles, including 4 of industrial and biomedical importance, on human endothelial cells was investigated using different in vitro assays. The results show that all the particles investigated induce some level of damage to the cells and that silver particles were most toxic, followed by titanium dioxide. Furthermore endothelial cells were shown to be more susceptible when exposed to silver nanoparticles under flow conditions in a bioreactor. The study underlines that although simple in vitro tests are useful to screen compounds and to identify the type of effect induced on cells, they may not be sufficient to define safe exposure limits. Therefore, once initial toxicity screening has been conducted on nanomaterials, it is necessary to develop more physiologically relevant in vitro models to better understand how nanomaterials can impact on human health.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1743-5404}, doi = {10.3109/17435390.2013.831500}, url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23909703}, author = {Ucciferri, N and Collnot, E. M. and Gaiser, B. and Tirella, A and Stone, V. and C. Domenici and Lehr, C.-M. and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {2144, title = {Increased Instability of Heartbeat Dynamics in Parkinson{\textquoteright}s Disease}, booktitle = {Computers in Cardiology}, year = {2013}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {R. Barbieri and L. Citi and G. Valenza and M. Guerrisi and S. Orsolini and C. Tessa and S. Diciotti and N. Toschi} } @conference {1995, title = {An Innovative Multisensor Controlled Prosthetic Hand}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the XIII Mediterranean Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering and Computing}, year = {2013}, pages = {93{\textendash}96}, publisher = {Springer International Publishing}, organization = {Springer International Publishing}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-00846-2_23}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1007/978-3-319-00846-2_23}, author = {N. Carbonaro and G. Anania and Bacchereti, M. and Donati, G. and Ferretti, G. and Pellicci, L. and Parrini, G. and Vitetta, N. and D. De Rossi and A. Tognetti} } @conference {2137, title = {Instantaneous bispectral characterization of the autonomic nervous system through a point-process nonlinear model}, booktitle = {World Congress on Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering}, year = {2013}, pages = {530{\textendash}533}, publisher = {Springer Berlin Heidelberg}, organization = {Springer Berlin Heidelberg}, address = {May 26-31, 2012, Beijing, China}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and E. P. Scilingo and R. Barbieri} } @conference {2142, title = {Instantaneous nonlinear assessment of complex cardiovascular dynamics by laguerre-volterra point process models}, booktitle = {Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC), 2013 35th Annual International Conference of the IEEE}, year = {2013}, pages = {6131{\textendash}6134}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and R. Barbieri} } @conference {1814, title = {A Mobile Biosensor to detect Cardiorespiratory Activity for Stress Tracking}, booktitle = {IEEE 7th International Conference on Pervasive Computing Technologies for Healthcare (PervasiveHealth)}, year = {2013}, pages = {440 - 445 }, address = {Venice, Italy}, abstract = {

Stress is an increasingly recognized phenomenon that has negative effects on growing numbers of people. Stress assessment is a complex issue, but different studies have shown that monitoring user psychophysiological parameter during daily life can be greatly helpful in stress evaluation. In this study a wearable biosensor platform able to collect physiological and behavioral parameters is reported. The developed wearable platform, in terms of hardware and processing algorithms, is described. Moreover the use of this wearable biosensor platform in combination with advanced simulation technologies, such as virtual reality offer interesting opportunities for innovative personal health-care solutions to stress. A recently founded European project, "INTERSTRESS - Interreality in the management and treatment of stress-related disorders," will take into account these relevant aspects.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {978-1-4799-0296-5 }, author = {N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti and G. Anania and D. De Rossi and P. Cipresso and A. Gaggioli and G. Riva} } @article {1876, title = {Mobile underwater sensor networks for protection and security: field experience at the UAN11 experiment}, journal = {JOURNAL OF FIELD ROBOTICS}, volume = {30}, year = {2013}, pages = {237{\textendash}253}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1556-4959}, doi = {10.1002/rob.21447}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1002/rob.21447}, author = {A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o} and G. Dini and A. Lo Duca and A. Munaf{\`o}} } @conference {1940, title = {Neural correlates of haptic pop-out of shape discrimination in the human brain}, booktitle = {19th Annual Meeting of the Organization for Human Brain Mapping}, year = {2013}, address = {Seattle, USA, June2013}, author = {A. Leo and M. Feurra and S. Rossi and A. Kappers and A. Bicchi and D Prattichizzo and Cristea, I. and David, D. and P. Pietrini and E. Ricciardi} } @conference {2141, title = {A nonlinear heartbeat dynamics model approach for personalized emotion recognition}, booktitle = {Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC), 2013 35th Annual International Conference of the IEEE}, year = {2013}, pages = {2579{\textendash}2582}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and A Lanata and E. P. Scilingo and R. Barbieri} } @conference {1437, title = {Optimal Control and Design Guidelines for Soft Jumping Robots: Series Elastic Actuation and Parallel Elastic Actuation in comparison}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA2013)}, year = {2013}, pages = {2477 - 2484}, keywords = {Robotics}, url = {10.1109/ICRA.2013.6630914 }, author = {R. Incaini and L. Sestini and M. Garabini and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @conference {1447, title = {Optimal Control for Maximizing Velocity of the CompActTM Compliant Actuator}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA2013)}, year = {2013}, pages = {516 - 522}, keywords = {Robotics}, url = {10.1109/ICRA.2013.6630623}, author = {L. Chen and M. Garabini and M. Laffranchi and N. Kashiri and N G Tsagarakis and A. Bicchi and D. G. Caldwell} } @conference {1583, title = {Packet-based dynamic control for nonlinear networked systems}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Decision and Control (CDC2013)}, year = {2013}, pages = {6597,6603}, address = {Florence, Italy}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/CDC.2013.6760933}, author = {S. Falasca and M. Gamba and L. Greco and A. Chaillet and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2243, title = {Piezoresistive Goniometer Network for Sensing Gloves}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the XIII Mediterranean Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering and Computing}, year = {2013}, pages = {1547{\textendash}1550}, publisher = {Springer International Publishing}, organization = {Springer International Publishing}, abstract = {

This paper presents a kinesthetic glove realized with knitted piezoresistive fabric (KPF) sensor technology. The glove forefinger area is sensorized by two KPF goniometers obtained on the same piezoresistive substrate. The piezoresistive textile is used for the realization of both electrogoniometers and connections, thus avoiding mechanical constraints due to metallic wires. Sensors are characterized in comparison with commercial goniometers. The glove behavior is pointed out in terms of methacarpal-phalangeal and interphalangeal joint movement reconstruction.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-00846-2_382}, author = {G. Dalle Mura and F. Lorussi and A. Tognetti and G. Anania and N. Carbonaro and M. Pacelli and R. Paradiso and D. De Rossi} } @article {2139, title = {Point-Process Nonlinear Models with Laguerre and Volterra Expansions: Instantaneous Assessment of Heartbeat Dynamics}, journal = {IEEE Transactions on Signal Processing}, volume = {61}, year = {2013}, pages = {2914{\textendash}2926}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and E. P. Scilingo and R. Barbieri} } @article {1782, title = {Pressure-activated microsyringe composite scaffold of poly(L-lactic acid) and carbon nanotubes for bone tissue engineering}, journal = {Journal of Apllied polymer science}, volume = {129}, year = {2013}, pages = {528{\textendash}536}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Vozzi and C. Corallo and C. Daraio} } @conference {2140, title = {Quantitative EEG analysis in minimally conscious state patients during postural changes}, booktitle = {Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC), 2013 35th Annual International Conference of the IEEE}, year = {2013}, pages = {6313{\textendash}6316}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, author = {A. Greco and Carboncini, MC and Virgillito, A and A Lanata and G. Valenza and E. P. Scilingo} } @conference {1759, title = {Shortest paths for wheeled robots with limited Field-Of-View: introducing the vertical constraint}, booktitle = {IEEE Conference on Decision and Control}, year = {2013}, pages = {5143 - 5149}, address = {Florence, Italy}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {P Salaris and A. Cristofaro and L. Pallottino and A. Bicchi} } @article {1784, title = {Silk Fibroin/Gelatin Blend Films Crosslinked with Enzymes for Biomedical Applications}, year = {2013}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1002/mabi.201300156}, author = {P. Taddei and V. Chiono and A. Anghileri and G. Vozzi and G. Freddi and G. Ciardelli} } @article {2281, title = {SQPR 3.0: A Sensorized Bioreactor for Modulating Cardiac Phenotype}, journal = {Procedia Engineering}, volume = {59}, year = {2013}, pages = {219{\textendash}225}, abstract = {

In cardiac tissue engineering, the use of bioreactors is fundamental for applying controlled mechanical stimuli on cells and recreate a physiological environment for cardiomyocyte cultures. This work is focused on the design of a sensorized Squeeze Pressure bioreactor (SQPR 3.0) able to apply a periodic contactless hydrodynamic pressure on tissue constructs. This system was then tested with H2c9, a murine cardiomyoblast cell line, to investigate the effect of different stimulation times (2h, 24h, 30h) on cell shape and cardiotypic marker expression.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {18777058}, doi = {10.1016/j.proeng.2013.05.114}, url = {http://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S187770581301028X}, author = {S. Giusti and F. Pagliari and Vozzi, F. and Tirella, A and D. Mazzei and Cabiati, M and S. del Ry and A. Ahluwalia} } @article {1999, title = {Struttura protesica per amputazione mano}, volume = {PI2013A000004}, year = {2013}, pages = {{\textendash}}, author = {Bacchereti, M. and N. Carbonaro and GABRIELE, D. and FERRETTI, L. and PELLICCI, G. and A. Tognetti and Vitetta, N.} } @booklet {2229, title = {Struttura protesica per amputazione mano}, year = {2013}, author = {Bacchereti, M. and N. Carbonaro and G. Dalle Mura and FERRETTI, L. and PELLICCI, G. and A. Tognetti and Vitetta, N.} } @conference {1664, title = {A synergy-driven approach to a myoelectric hand}, booktitle = {13TH International Conference on Rehabilitation Robotics}, year = {2013}, pages = {1 - 6}, address = {June 24-26, 2013, Seattle, WA.}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, url = {10.1109/ICORR.2013.6650377 }, author = {S. B. Godfrey and A. Ajoudani and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @conference {1435, title = {Tele-Impedance based Stiffness and Motion Augmentation for a Knee Exoskeleton Device}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA2013)}, year = {2013}, pages = {2194 - 2200}, keywords = {Robotics}, url = {10.1109/ICRA.2013.6630872}, author = {N. Karavas and A. Ajoudani and N G Tsagarakis and J. Saglia and A. Bicchi and D. G. Caldwell} } @conference {1666, title = {Teleimpedance Control of a Synergy-Driven Anthropomorphic Hand}, booktitle = {IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems, IROS 2013}, year = {2013}, month = {November 3-7}, pages = {1985 - 1991}, address = {Tokyo, Japan}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/IROS.2013.6696620 }, author = {A. Ajoudani and S. B. Godfrey and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and N G Tsagarakis and A. Bicchi} } @conference {1802, title = {Towards a controlled and monitorable hepatic micro-environment}, booktitle = {Advanced Cell Culture}, year = {2013}, address = {Liverpool, UK}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Tirella, A and La Marca, M and Carroll, L. A. and Aylott, J and A. Ahluwalia} } @article {1698, title = {Variable Impedance Actuators: a Review}, journal = {Robotics and Autonomous Systems}, volume = {61}, year = {2013}, note = {

Available online 6 August 2013

}, month = {12/2013}, pages = {1601{\textendash}1614}, abstract = {

Variable Impedance Actuators (VIA) have received increasing attention in recent years as many novel applications involving interactions with an unknown and dynamic environment including humans require actuators with dynamics that are not well-achieved by classical stiff actuators. This paper presents an overview of the different VIAs developed and proposes a classification based on the principles through which the variable stiffness and damping are achieved. The main classes are active impedance by control, inherent compliance and damping actuators, inertial actuators, and combinations of them, which are then further divided into subclasses. This classification allows for designers of new devices to orientate and take inspiration and users of VIA{\textquoteright}s to be guided in the design and implementation process for their targeted application.

}, keywords = {Robotics, Soft robotics, Variable Impedance Actuators}, url = {http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921889013001188}, author = {B. Vanderborght and A Albu-Schaeffer and A. Bicchi and E. Burdet and D. G. Caldwell and R. Carloni and M. G. Catalano and O. Eiberger and W. Friedl and G. Ganesh and M. Garabini and M. Grebenstein and G. Grioli and S. Haddadin and H. Hoppner and A. Jafari and M. Laffranchi and D. Lefeber and F. Petit and S. Stramigioli and N G Tsagarakis and M. Van Damme and R. Van Ham and L. C. Visser and S. Wolf} } @conference {1502, title = {3D SOFT-MI: novel microfabrication method of 3D molecular imprinted structures}, booktitle = {Congresso Nazionale di Bioingegneria 2012 Atti}, year = {2012}, pages = {132 - 133}, address = {Roma, Italy}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Carrabba, M and G. Vozzi} } @conference {1241, title = {Adaptive Synergies: an approach to the design of under-actuated robotic hands}, booktitle = {International Conference of Intelligent Robots and Systems - IROS 2012}, year = {2012}, month = {October 7 - 12}, pages = {1251 - 1256 }, address = {Vilamoura, Algarve, Portugal}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/IROS.2012.6385881 }, author = {G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and E. Silvestro and S. Tono and A. Bicchi} } @conference {1188, title = {Adaptive Synergies for a Humanoid Robot Hand}, booktitle = {IEEE-RAS International Conference on Humanoid Robots}, year = {2012}, note = {

Best Paper Award

}, pages = {7-14}, address = {Osaka, Japan}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and A. Serio and E. Farnioli and C. Piazza and A. Bicchi} } @article {1479, title = {Are socially anxious individuals less empathic? A psychophysiological investigation of facial mimicry for emotional expressions}, journal = {International Journal of Psychophysiology}, volume = {85}, year = {2012}, pages = {375{\textendash}376}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Matu, S. and Cristea, I. and Cote{\c t}, C. and G. Valenza and C. Gentili and E. P. Scilingo and David, D.} } @article {2000, title = {Assessment of Sensing Fire Fighters Uniforms for Physiological Parameter Measurement in Harsh Environment}, journal = {IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN BIOMEDICINE}, volume = {16}, year = {2012}, pages = {501{\textendash}511}, issn = {1089-7771}, doi = {10.1109/TITB.2011.2182615}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/TITB.2011.2182615}, author = {Curone, D. and Secco, E. L. and Caldani, L. and A Lanata and R. Paradiso and A. Tognetti and G. Magenes} } @conference {1504, title = {Characterization and modeling of mechanical behavior a discrete gradient structure}, booktitle = {Congresso Nazionale di Bioingegneria 2012 Atti}, year = {2012}, pages = {130 - 131}, address = {Roma, Italy}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Caputo, M and G. Vozzi and G. Mattei} } @article {1480, title = {Cognitive reappraisal and acceptance distinctively impact heart rate variability in socially anxious individuals}, journal = {International Journal of Psychophysiology}, volume = {85}, year = {2012}, pages = {339}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Cristea, I. and G. Valenza and C. Gentili and Tatar, A.S. and E. P. Scilingo and David, D.} } @article {GCB11, title = {Exploiting Packet Size in Uncertain Nonlinear Networked Control Systems}, journal = {Automatica}, volume = {48}, year = {2012}, pages = {2801 - 2811}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {L. Greco and A. Chaillet and A. Bicchi} } @inbook {1875, title = {Further Advances in Unmanned Marine Vehicles}, year = {2012}, pages = {309{\textendash}330}, publisher = {IET}, organization = {IET}, chapter = {The enhanced FOLAGA: a hybrid glider/propelled AUV capable of carrying universal payload modules}, address = {Londra}, keywords = {Robotics}, isbn = {9781849194792}, author = {A. Caffaz and A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o} and G. Casalino and A Maguer and A. Munaf{\`o} and J.R. Potter and H Tay and A. Turetta} } @article {1290, title = {A geographical information system (GIS)-based simulation tool to assess civilian harbor protection levels}, journal = {IEEE JOURNAL OF OCEANIC ENGINEERING}, volume = {37}, year = {2012}, pages = {85{\textendash}102}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0364-9059}, doi = {10.1109/JOE.2011.2174675}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/JOE.2011.2174675}, author = {A. Caiti and A. Munaf{\`o} and G. Vettori} } @inbook {1494, title = {Hydrogels with 3D Gradient of Mechanical Properties}, booktitle = {Hydrogels: Synthesis, Characterization and Applications}, number = {Biochemistry Research Trends}, year = {2012}, edition = {online edition}, chapter = {Hydrogels with 3D Gradient of Mechanical Properties }, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Orsi and Carta, V and G. Vozzi} } @conference {1499, title = {Hydrogels with 3D gradient of mechanical properties}, booktitle = {Congresso Nazionale di Bioingegneria 2012 Atti}, year = {2012}, pages = {200 - 201}, address = {Roma, Italy}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Carta, V and G. Orsi and G. Vozzi} } @conference {1483, title = {Instantaneous estimation of high-order nonlinear heartbeat dynamics by Lyapunov exponents}, booktitle = {2012 Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC)}, year = {2012}, pages = {13{\textendash}16}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {L. Citi and G. Valenza and R. Barbieri} } @article {1232, title = {Interacting with networks: How does structure relate to controllability in single-leader, consensus networks?}, journal = {Control Systems Magazine}, volume = {32}, year = {2012}, pages = {66 - 73}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {M. Egerstedt and S. Martini and M. Cao and K. Camlibel and A. Bicchi} } @conference {1804, title = {Monitoring cell culture 3D microenvironments: oxygen and pH nano-sensors within hydrogels}, booktitle = {National Conference of Bioengineering}, year = {2012}, address = {Rome, Italy}, abstract = {

Ratiometric pH and O2 nanosensors were fabricated independently using a fluorophore that produces a signal proportional to the concentration of the analyte of interest, and a second fluorophore that produces a reference signal, insensitive to the analyte of interest. These fluorophores emit at different wavelengths and were either entrapped or covalently bound, within an inert optically transparent polymeric matrix. In this work uniform sized 3D micro-scaled alginate hydrogel constructs of approximately 100-300 $μ$m were fabricated. Through dual incorporation of HepG2 cells and nanosensors within these alginate constructs we aim to have a real-time, non-invasive method to measure microenvironmental pH and O2 content. Ratiometric fluorescent output from the microenvironment is used to monitor O2 concentrations and pH during cell culture. Measurements show that 3D micro-scaled constructs are suitable for cell growth and proliferation. Moreover O2 and pH values within the hydrogel cellularised microspheres are shown to have physiological values that enable the maintenance of the hepatic phenotype

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Tirella, A and Carroll, L. A. and Aylott, J and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {1486, title = {Monitoring heartbeat nonlinear dynamics during general anesthesia by using the instantaneous dominant Lyapunov exponent}, booktitle = {2012 Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC)}, year = {2012}, pages = {3124{\textendash}3127}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {L. Citi and G. Valenza and Purdon, P.L. and Brown, E.N. and R. Barbieri} } @conference {1800, title = {{Monitoring microconstructs: cell and nanosensor encapsulation in alginate micro-beads}}, booktitle = {TERMIS 3rd World Congress}, year = {2012}, address = {Vienna, Austria}, abstract = {

Monitoring and controlling the microenvironment of cell cultures is an ongoing challenge for many researchers. Much research has been conducted characterising individual aspects such as 3D architecture, mechanical properties, biochemicals, etc. The biggest deficits in existing models for monitoring analytes within the cellular environment is the lack of appropriate means for non invasive, real-time and integrated monitoring of the cellular responses. Nanosensors can overcome these issues: they are porous polymeric nanoparticles that are sensitive to a range of analytes including pH and O2. Microfabrication techniques are innovative tools to obtain controlled microstructures with a defined 3D architecture. In this work uniform sized 3D micro-scaled hydrogel constructs of approximately 300-400 um diameter were fabricated. Through dual incorporation of cells and nanosensors within these constructs we aim to have a real-time, non invasive method to measure microenvironmental pH value and O2 content. Ratiometric fluorescent output from the microenvironment is used to monitor O2 and pH during cell culture. Measurements show that 3D micro-scaled constructs are suitable for cell growth and proliferation. Moreover O2 content and pH within hydrogel cellularised microspheres are shown to have physiological values which enable the maintenance of the hepatic phenotype.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering, Nanotools}, author = {Tirella, A and A. Ahluwalia and Aylott, J and Carroll, L. A.} } @conference {1874, title = {MOOS middleware and node adaptivity in underwater sensor networks: Results from the UAN11 sea trial}, booktitle = {Proceedings of Meetings on Acoustics}, year = {2012}, month = {2-6 July,}, pages = {1{\textendash}9}, publisher = {Acoustical Society of America}, organization = {Acoustical Society of America}, address = {Edinburgh}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1121/1.4772678}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1121/1.4772678}, author = {A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o} and G. Dini and A. Duca and A. Munaf{\`o}} } @article {1287, title = {Multivariable constrained process control via Lyapunov R-functions}, journal = {JOURNAL OF PROCESS CONTROL}, year = {2012}, note = {

Available on line since Aug 10 2012 - paper version in press

}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0959-1524}, doi = {10.1016/j.jprocont.2012.07.013}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1016/j.jprocont.2012.07.013}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and S Grammatico} } @article {1288, title = {A new class of Lyapunov functions for the constrained stabilization of linear systems}, journal = {AUTOMATICA}, year = {2012}, note = {

Available on-line since July 18 2012 - Paper version in press

}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0005-1098}, doi = {10.1016/j.automatica.2012.06.099}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1016/j.automatica.2012.06.099}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and S Grammatico} } @article {1331, title = {The PAM2 system: a multilevel approach for fabrication of complex three-dimensional microstructures}, journal = {Rapid Prototyping Journal}, volume = {18}, year = {2012}, pages = {299{\textendash}307}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1108/13552541211231725}, author = {Tirella, A and C. De Maria and G. Criscenti and G. Vozzi and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {MGCGBB12, title = {Passive impedance control of a Qboid multi-DOF VSA-CubeBot manipulator}, booktitle = {International Conference of Robotics and Automation - ICRA 2012}, year = {2012}, month = {May 14 - 18}, pages = {3335 - 3340 }, address = {Saint Paul, MN, USA}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ICRA.2012.6225082 }, author = {M. Mancini and G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and M. Garabini and F. Bonomo and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2005, title = {Personal Biomonitoring System: a real-time physiological and behavioural parameter monitoring system for stress correlation}, booktitle = {17th Annual CyberPsychology \& CyberTherapy Conference (CYBER17)}, year = {2012}, month = {September 25-28,}, pages = {{\textendash}}, author = {N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti and G. Anania and Dalle Mura, G. and D. De Rossi} } @article {1334, title = {Realization of a poro-elastic ultrasound replica of pulmonary tissue}, journal = {Biomatter}, volume = {2}, year = {2012}, pages = {27{\textendash}26}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, url = {http://www.landesbioscience.com/journals/biomatter/article/19835/}, author = {Spinelli, A and Vinci, B. and Tirella, A and Matteucci, M and Gargani, L and A. Ahluwalia and C. Domenici and Picano, E and Chiarelli, P} } @conference {2283, title = {Replicating the 3D cardiomyocyte environment in the squeeze pressure bioreactor}, booktitle = {Journal of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine}, volume = {6 Suppl 1}, year = {2012}, pages = {341}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1002/term.1586}, url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22941753}, author = {S. Giusti and Tirella, A and Galli, E and Vozzi, F. and Cabiati, M and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {1792, title = {Replicating the cardiac environment in the Squeeze Pressure Bioreactor}, booktitle = {TERMIS 3rd World Congress}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {S. Giusti and Tirella, A and Galli, E and Vozzi, F. and Cabiati, M and A. Ahluwalia} } @article {1289, title = {Secure Cooperation of Autonomous Mobile Sensors Using an Underwater Acoustic Network}, journal = {SENSORS}, volume = {12}, year = {2012}, pages = {1967{\textendash}1989}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, issn = {1424-8220}, doi = {10.3390/s120201967}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.3390/s120201967}, author = {A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o} and G. Dini and A. Lo Duca and A. Munaf{\`o}} } @article {1491, title = {Small-Strain Modeling of Helical Dielectric Elastomer Actuators}, journal = {IEEE/ASME TRANSACTIONS ON MECHATRONICS}, volume = {17}, year = {2012}, pages = {318{\textendash}325}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1083-4435}, author = {F. Carpi and D. De Rossi} } @article {1485, title = {Tetravariate Point-Process Model for the Continuous Characterization of Cardiovascular-Respiratory Dynamics during Passive Postural Changes}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Orini, M. and G. Valenza and L. Citi and R. Barbieri} } @conference {1239, title = {Towards variable impedance assembly: the VSA peg-in-hole}, booktitle = {IEEE-RAS International Conference on Humanoid Robots}, year = {2012}, address = {Osaka, Japan}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {L. Balletti and A. Rocchi and F. A. W. Belo and M. G. Catalano and M. Garabini and G. Grioli and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2006, title = {Unobtrusive Physiological and Gesture Wearable Acquisition System: A Preliminary Study on Behavioral and Emotional Correlations}, booktitle = {GLOBAL HEALTH 2012 : The First International Conference on Global Health Challenges}, year = {2012}, month = {21-26 October}, pages = {88{\textendash}92}, author = {N. Carbonaro and A. Greco and G. Anania and G. Dalle Mura and A. Tognetti and E. P. Scilingo and D. De Rossi and A Lanata} } @conference {BSTCB12, title = {On the Use of Postural Synergies to Improve Human Hand Pose Reconstruction}, booktitle = {Haptics Symposium}, year = {2012}, month = {March 4 - 7}, pages = {91 - 98}, address = {Vancouver, Canada}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, author = {M. Bianchi and P Salaris and A. Turco and N. Carbonaro and A. Bicchi} } @conference {1481, title = {Using Laguerre expansion within point-process models of heartbeat dynamics: A comparative study}, booktitle = {Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBC), 2012 Annual International Conference of the IEEE}, year = {2012}, pages = {29{\textendash}32}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and L. Citi and E. P. Scilingo and R. Barbieri} } @article {2001, title = {Validation of Smart Garments for Physiological and Activity-Related Monitoring of Humans in Harsh Environment}, journal = {AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING}, volume = {2}, year = {2012}, pages = {189{\textendash}196}, issn = {2163-1050}, doi = {10.5923/j.ajbe.20120204.07}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.5923/j.ajbe.20120204.07}, author = {Secco, E. L. and Curone, D. and A. Tognetti and Bonfiglio, A. and G. Magenes} } @conference {CGGBDBTB12, title = {A Variable Damping module for Variable Impedance Actuation}, booktitle = {International Conference of Robotics and Automation - ICRA 2012}, year = {2012}, month = {May 14 - 18}, pages = {2666 - 2672}, address = {Saint Paul, MN, USA}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and M. Garabini and F. A. W. Belo and A. Di Basco and N G Tsagarakis and A. Bicchi} } @article {1245, title = {Variable Impedance Actuators: Moving the Robots of Tomorrow}, year = {2012}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {B. Vanderborght and A Albu-Schaeffer and A. Bicchi and E. Burdet and D. G. Caldwell and R. Carloni and M. G. Catalano and G. Ganesh and M. Garabini and G. Grioli and S. Haddadin and A. Jafari and M. Laffranchi and D. Lefeber and F. Petit and S. Stramigioli and N G Tsagarakis and M. Van Damme and R. Van Ham and L. C. Visser and S. Wolf} } @conference {1243, title = { Velvet fingers: A dexterous gripper with active surfaces}, booktitle = {International Conference of Intelligent Robots and Systems - IROS 2012}, year = {2012}, month = {October 7 - 12}, pages = {1257 - 1263 }, address = {Vilamoura, Algarve, Portugal}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {V. Tincani and M. G. Catalano and E. Farnioli and M. Garabini and G. Grioli and G Fantoni and A. Bicchi} } @inbook {1873, title = {Advances in PID Control}, year = {2011}, pages = {85{\textendash}100}, publisher = {INTECH}, organization = {INTECH}, chapter = {From Basic to Advanced PI Controllers: A Complexity vs. Performance Comparison}, keywords = {Robotics}, isbn = {9789533072678}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o} and E. Crisostomi and A. Landi} } @article {1291, title = {Autonomous underwater vehicle teams for adaptive ocean sampling: a data-driven approach}, journal = {OCEAN DYNAMICS}, volume = {61}, year = {2011}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, issn = {1616-7341}, doi = {10.1007/s10236-011-0464-x}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1007/s10236-011-0464-x}, author = {A. Munaf{\`o} and E. Simetti and A. Turetta and G. Casalino and A. Caiti} } @conference {1870, title = {AUVs as mobile nodes in acoustic networks: field experience at the UAN10 experiment}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the OCEANS{\^a}{\texteuro}{\texttrademark}11 IEEE Santander Conference}, year = {2011}, month = {June}, pages = {1{\textendash}6}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/Oceans-Spain.2011.6003462}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/Oceans-Spain.2011.6003462}, author = {A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o} and G. Dini and A. Lo Duca and A. Munaf{\`o}} } @article {1477, title = {Daytime naps improve motor imagery learning}, journal = {Cognitive, Affective, \& Behavioral Neuroscience}, year = {2011}, pages = {1{\textendash}10}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Debarnot, U. and Castellani, E. and G. Valenza and Sebastiani, L. and Guillot, A.} } @conference {1474, title = {EEG complexity drug-induced changes in disorders of consciousness: A preliminary report}, booktitle = {Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, EMBC, 2011 Annual International Conference of the IEEE}, year = {2011}, pages = {3724{\textendash}3727}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Valenza and Carboncini, MC and Virgillito, A. and Creatini, I. and Bonfiglio, L. and Rossi, B. and A Lanata and E. P. Scilingo} } @conference {2012, title = {Electroactive polymer patches for wearable haptic interfaces}, booktitle = {Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society EMBC{\textquoteright}11}, year = {2011}, pages = {8369{\textendash}8372}, doi = {10.1109/IEMBS.2011.6092064}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/IEMBS.2011.6092064}, author = {D. De Rossi and F. Carpi and N. Carbonaro and A. Tognetti and E. P. Scilingo} } @conference {2014, title = {Enhancing the performance of upper limb gesture reconstruction through sensory fusion}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, EMBS}, year = {2011}, pages = {3496{\textendash}3499}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {USA}, doi = {10.1109/IEMBS.2011.6090944}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/IEMBS.2011.6090944}, author = {F. Lorussi and A. Tognetti and N. Carbonaro and G. Anania and D. De Rossi} } @conference {GCB11, title = {Exploiting Packet Size in Uncertain Nonlinear Networked Control Systems}, booktitle = {2011 Congress of the International Federation of Automatic Control - IFAC 2011}, year = {2011}, month = {August 28 - Sept}, pages = {14404 - 14409}, address = {Milano, italy}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {L. Greco and A. Chaillet and A. Bicchi} } @conference {SCGGB11, title = {The Hand Embodied}, booktitle = {Automatica.it 2011}, year = {2011}, note = {

poster presentation

}, month = {September, 7 - 9}, address = {Pisa, Italy}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, author = {A. Serio and M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and M Gabiccini and A. Bicchi} } @conference {1799, title = {How dimension a substrate for the realisation of controlled micro- and bio-inspired environment}, booktitle = {Euromat-FEMS}, year = {2011}, address = {Montpellier, France}, abstract = {

European Congress and Exhibition on Advanced Materials and Processes - Oral

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Tirella, A and A. Ahluwalia and C. De Maria and Vozzi, F. and G. Vozzi and Sandri, T and Sassano, D and Cognolato, L} } @article {1293, title = {Logical composition of Lyapunov functions}, journal = {INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CONTROL}, volume = {84}, year = {2011}, pages = {563{\textendash}573}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0020-7179}, doi = {10.1080/00207179.2011.562549}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1080/00207179.2011.562549}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi} } @article {1510, title = {Melt Extruded PU Hollow Fibers for Nerve Regeneration: In vivo Study}, journal = {VETERINARY RESEARCH}, year = {2011}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0928-4249}, author = {G. Vozzi and F. Dini and S. Burchielli and C. Salvadori and C. De Maria and V. Chiono and G. Barsotti and G. Ciardelli and F. Carlucci and R. Roni} } @article {1466, title = {Motor imagery effectiveness for mirror reversed movements}, journal = {Cognitive, Affective, \& Behavioral Neuroscience}, volume = {11}, year = {2011}, pages = {22{\textendash}31}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Debarnot, U. and G. Valenza and Champely, S. and E. P. Scilingo and D. De Rossi and Guillot, A.} } @inbook {1872, title = {Nonlinear Science and Complexity}, year = {2011}, pages = {381{\textendash}388}, publisher = {Springer}, organization = {Springer}, chapter = {A generalised entropy of curves approach for the analysis of dynamical systems}, keywords = {Robotics}, isbn = {9789048198832}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi} } @conference {FLGGMCFSB11, title = {Packet-based control}, booktitle = {Automatica.it 2011}, year = {2011}, note = {

poster presentation

}, month = {September, 7 - 9}, address = {Pisa, Italy}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {S. Falasca and G. Lorefice and L. Greco and M. Gamba and S. Melani and A. Chaillet and D. Fontanelli and R. Schiavi and C Belsito} } @article {1513, title = {Poly(ester urethane) Guides for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration}, journal = {MACROMOLECULAR BIOSCIENCE}, year = {2011}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1616-5187}, author = {V. Chiono and Sartori, S and Rechichi, A and Tonda-Turo, C and G. Vozzi and Vozzi, F. and D{\textquoteright}Acunto, M and C. Salvadori and F. Dini and G. Barsotti and F. Carlucci and S. Burchielli and Nicolino, S and Audisio, C and Perroteau, I and P. Giusti and G. Ciardelli} } @article {1292, title = {RT2: Real Time Ray Tracing for Underwater range Evaluation}, journal = {INTELLIGENT SERVICE ROBOTICS}, volume = {4}, year = {2011}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1861-2776}, doi = {10.1007/s11370-011-0093-8}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1007/s11370-011-0093-8}, author = {G. Casalino and A. Caiti and E. Simetti and A. Turetta} } @conference {1871, title = {Secure Cooperation of Mobile Sensors in an Underwater Acoustic Network}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the 8th European Conference on Wireless Sensor Networks}, year = {2011}, month = {23-25 February,}, pages = {1{\textendash}2}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Caiti and G. Dini and A. Lo Duca and A. Munaf{\`o}} } @article {2284, title = {Squeeze pressure bioreactor: a hydrodynamic bioreactor for noncontact stimulation of cartilage constructs}, journal = {Tissue engineering. Part C, Methods}, volume = {17}, year = {2011}, pages = {757{\textendash}64}, abstract = {

A novel squeeze pressure bioreactor for noncontact hydrodynamic stimulation of cartilage is described. The bioreactor is based on a small piston that moves up and down, perpendicular to a tissue construct, in a fluid-filled chamber. Fluid displaced by the piston generates a pressure wave and shear stress as it moves across the sample, simulating the dynamic environment of a mobile joint. The fluid dynamics inside the squeeze pressure bioreactor was modeled using analytical and computational methods to simulate the mechanical stimuli imposed on a construct. In particular, the pressure, velocity field, and wall shear stress generated on the surface of the construct were analyzed using the theory of hydrodynamic lubrication, which describes the flow of an incompressible fluid between two surfaces in relative motion. Both the models and in-situ pressure measurements in the bioreactor demonstrate that controlled cyclic stresses of up to 10 kPa can be applied to tissue constructs. Initial tests on three-dimensional scaffolds seeded with chondrocytes show that glycosaminoglycan production is increased with regard to controls after 24 and 48 h of cyclic noncontact stimulation in the bioreactor.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1937-3392}, doi = {10.1089/ten.TEC.2011.0002}, url = {http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/ten.tec.2011.0002 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21410315}, author = {C. De Maria and S. Giusti and D. Mazzei and A. Crawford and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {1869, title = {Stabilization of constrained linear systems via smoothed truncated ellipsoids}, booktitle = {IFAC World Congress}, year = {2011}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Balestrino and E. Crisostomi and S Grammatico and A. Caiti} } @conference {1868, title = {A statistical tool for analysing nonlinear properties of dynamical systems}, booktitle = {IEEE Mediterranean Conference on Automation and Control}, year = {2011}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi} } @article {1488, title = {Substrate stiffness influences high resolution printing of living cells with an ink-jet system}, journal = {Journal of bioscience and bioengineering}, volume = {112}, year = {2011}, pages = {79{\textendash}85}, abstract = {

The adaptation of inkjet printing technology for the realisation of controlled micro- and nano-scaled biological structures is of great potential in tissue and biomaterial engineering. In this paper we present the Olivetti BioJet system and its applications in tissue engineering and cell printing. BioJet, which employs a thermal inkjet cartridge, was used to print biomolecules and living cells. It is well known that high stresses and forces are developed during the inkjet printing process. When printing living particles (i.e., cell suspensions) the mechanical loading profile can dramatically damage the processed cells. Therefore computational models were developed to predict the velocity profile and the mechanical load acting on a droplet during the printing process. The model was used to investigate the role of the stiffness of the deposition substrate during droplet impact and compared with experimental investigations on cell viability after printing on different materials. The computational model and the experimental results confirm that impact forces are highly dependent on the deposition substrate and that soft and viscous surfaces can reduce the forces acting on the droplet, preventing cell damage. These results have high relevance for cell bioprinting; substrates should be designed to have a good compromise between substrate stiffness to conserve spatial patterning without droplet coalescence but soft enough to absorb the kinetic energy of droplets in order to maintain cell viability.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1347-4421}, doi = {10.1016/j.jbiosc.2011.03.019}, url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21497548}, author = {Tirella, A and Vozzi, F. and C. De Maria and G. Vozzi and Sandri, T and Sassano, D and Cognolato, L and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {GCGSSBMBP11, title = {Variable stiffness actuators: muscles for the next generation of robots}, booktitle = {Automatica.it 2011}, year = {2011}, note = {

poster presentation

}, month = {September, 7 - 9}, address = {Pisa, Italy}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {G. Grioli and M. G. Catalano and M. Garabini and F. Bonomo and A. Serio and P Salaris and F. A. W. Belo and M. Mancini and A. Bicchi and A. Passaglia} } @conference {CGGBB11, title = {VSA - CubeBot. A modular variable stiffness platform for multi degrees of freedom systems}, booktitle = {2011 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation}, year = {2011}, month = {May 9 - 13}, pages = {5090 - 5095}, address = {Shangai, China}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and M. Garabini and F. Bonomo and M. Mancini and N G Tsagarakis and A. Bicchi} } @conference {2013, title = {Wearable biomonitoring system for stress management: A preliminary study on robust ECG signal processing}, booktitle = {2011 IEEE International Symposium on a World of Wireless, Mobile and Multimedia Networks, WoWMoM 2011}, year = {2011}, month = {20-24 June}, pages = {{\textendash}}, doi = {10.1109/WoWMoM.2011.5986192}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/WoWMoM.2011.5986192}, author = {N. Carbonaro and G. Anania and G. Dalle Mura and M. Tesconi and A. Tognetti and G. Zupone and D. De Rossi} } @inbook {2009, title = {Wearable Monitoring Systems}, year = {2011}, pages = {205{\textendash}219}, publisher = {Springer US}, organization = {Springer US}, chapter = {Emergency and work}, isbn = {9781441973832}, doi = {10.1007/978-1-4419-7384-9_10}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-7384-9_10}, author = {Bonfiglio, A. and Curone, D. and Secco, E. and G. Magenes and A. Tognetti} } @article {2008, title = {Wearable Systems for Brain body Reading and Mind Healing}, journal = {CYBER THERAPY AND REHABILITATION MAGAZINE}, year = {2011}, pages = {39{\textendash}40}, issn = {1784-9926}, author = {A. Tognetti and E. P. Scilingo and G. Anania and N. Carbonaro and A Lanata and F. Lorussi and D. Mazzei and G. Valenza and D. De Rossi} } @conference {1861, title = {Adaptive Cooperative Algorithms for AUV Networks}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Communications ICC10, workshop WUnderNet 2010}, year = {2010}, month = {May}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Caiti and A. Munaf{\`o}} } @conference {1860, title = {AUV networks for adaptive area coverage with reliable acoustic communication links}, booktitle = {Proc. Int. Conf. on Computing and Information technology in the Maritime Industries, COMPIT2010}, year = {2010}, month = {Apr}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Caiti and A. Munaf{\`o}} } @article {1276, title = {Contenitore per alimenti caldi e simili}, year = {2010}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {PI2009A000145}, author = {M. Bonini and R. Casati and M. Falorni and G Fantoni and M. Massei and D. Mazzei and M. Mazzuoli and G. Renucci} } @conference {1862, title = {Control-oriented modelling of an hybrid AUV}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Conf. on Robotics and Automation, ICRA 2010}, year = {2010}, month = {May}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ROBOT.2010.5509365}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/ROBOT.2010.5509365}, author = {A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o}} } @conference {1864, title = {DCL: a real time portable distributed control telelaboratory}, booktitle = {IEEE Mediterranean Conference on Automation and Control}, year = {2010}, month = {Jun}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o} and E. Crisostomi} } @conference {FBCABB-ICRA10, title = {Design and Control of a Novel 3D Casting Manipulator}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA2010)}, year = {2010}, month = {May 3 - 8}, pages = {4169 - 4174}, address = {Anchorage, Alaska}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {A. Fagiolini and F. A. W. Belo and M. G. Catalano and S. Alicino and F. Bonomo and A. Bicchi} } @conference {CSB-ICRA10, title = {Design for Variable Stiffness Actuation based on Enumeration and Analysis of Performance}, booktitle = {IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA2010)}, year = {2010}, month = {May 3 - 8}, pages = {3285 - 3291}, address = {Anchorage, Alaska}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {M. G. Catalano and R. Schiavi and A. Bicchi} } @conference {1863, title = {Designing behaviours to improve observability for relative localization of AUVs}, booktitle = {IEEE Conf. on Robotics and Automation, ICRA 2010}, year = {2010}, month = {May}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/ROBOT.2010.5509292}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/ROBOT.2010.5509292}, author = {G. ANTONELLI and A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o} and S. CHIAVERINI} } @conference {PCBB10, title = {Distributed Estimation and Detection under Local Information}, booktitle = {IFAC Workshop on Distributed Estimation and Control in Networked Systems}, year = {2010}, month = {Sept 13-14}, pages = {263-268}, address = {Annecy, France}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {F. Pasqualetti and R. Carli and A. Bicchi and F. Bullo} } @conference {1529, title = {Engineered Skeletal Muscle using Pam Scaffold}, booktitle = {Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, ESB 2010}, year = {2010}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. Cei and E. Loro and A. Malena and C. De Maria and L. Vergani and G. Vozzi} } @article {1521, title = {Enzymatically crosslinked porous composite matrices for bone tissue regeneration}, journal = {JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH. PART A}, year = {2010}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1549-3296}, author = {G. Ciardelli and GENTILE, P and V. Chiono and Mattioli-Belmonte, M. and G. Vozzi and Barbani, N and P. Giusti} } @conference {1271, title = {The FACE of autism}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE RO-MAN}, year = {2010}, pages = {791{\textendash}796}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1109/ROMAN.2010.5598683}, author = {D. Mazzei and Billeci, L. and Armato, A. and Lazzeri, N. and Cisternino, A. and G. Pioggia and Igliozzi, R. and Muratori, F. and A. Ahluwalia and D. De Rossi} } @conference {1865, title = {Geometric and robust feedback control of an AUV exploring an underwater volcano}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Autonomous Underwater Vehicles Conference}, year = {2010}, month = {Aug}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/AUV.2010.5779646}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/AUV.2010.5779646}, author = {M. ANDONIAN and M. CHYBA and S Grammatico and A. Caiti} } @article {2015, title = {Heart Rate and Accelerometer data fusion for activity assessment of rescuers during emergency interventions}, journal = {IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN BIOMEDICINE}, volume = {14}, year = {2010}, pages = {702{\textendash}710}, issn = {1089-7771}, doi = {10.1109/TITB.2010.2047727}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/TITB.2010.2047727}, author = {Curone, D. and A. Tognetti and Secco, E. L. and G. Anania and N. Carbonaro and D. De Rossi and G. Magenes} } @article {1294, title = {The hybrid glider/auv FOLAGA}, journal = {IEEE ROBOTICS AND AUTOMATION MAGAZINE}, volume = {1}, year = {2010}, pages = {31{\textendash}44}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1070-9932}, doi = {10.1109/MRA.2010.935791}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/MRA.2010.935791}, author = {A. Caffaz and A. Caiti and G. Casalino and A. Turetta} } @conference {PCBB, title = {Identifying Cyber Attacks via Local Model Information}, booktitle = {International Conference on Decision and Control - CDC 2010}, year = {2010}, month = {December}, pages = {5961 - 5966}, address = {Atlanta, USA}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {F. Pasqualetti and R. Carli and A. Bicchi and F. Bullo} } @article {1284, title = {In vitro liver model using microfabricated scaffolds in a modular bioreactor.}, journal = {Biotechnol J}, volume = {5}, year = {2010}, month = {Feb}, pages = {232{\textendash}241}, abstract = {

Hepatocyte function on 3-D microfabricated polymer scaffolds realised with the pressure-activated microsyringe was tested under static and dynamic conditions. The dynamic cell culture was obtained using the multicompartment modular bioreactor system. Hepatocyte cell density, glucose consumption, and albumin secretion rate were measured daily over a week. Cells seeded on scaffolds showed an increase in cell density compared with monolayer controls. Moreover, in dynamic culture, cell metabolic function increased three times in comparison with static monolayer cultures. These results suggest that cell density and cell-cell interactions are mediated by the architecture of the substrate, while the endogenous biochemical functions are regulated by a sustainable supply of nutrients and interstitial-like flow. Thus, a combination of 3-D scaffolds and dynamic flow conditions are both important for the development of a hepatic tissue model for applications in drug testing and regenerative medicine.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/biot.200900074}, author = {Vinci, B. and Cavallone, D. and G. Vozzi and D. Mazzei and C. Domenici and Brunetto, M. and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {2024, title = {Interreality: The use of advanced technologies in the assessment and treatement of psychological stress}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the 2010 10th International Conference on Intelligent Systems Design and Applications ISDA{\textquoteright}10}, year = {2010}, month = {29 Nov- 1 Dec}, pages = {1047{\textendash}1051}, doi = {10.1109/ISDA.2010.5687047}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/ISDA.2010.5687047}, author = {G. Pioggia and N. Carbonaro and G. Anania and A. Tognetti and Tartarisco, G. and M. Ferro and D. De Rossi and G. Riva} } @conference {DCB, title = {Left invertibility of output-quantized systems: an application to cryptography}, booktitle = {International Conference on Decision and Control - CDC 2010}, year = {2010}, month = {December}, pages = {4078-4083}, address = {Atlanta, USA}, abstract = {

In this paper a secure communication method is proposed, based on left invertibility of output-quantized dynamical systems. The sender uses an output-quantized linear system with a feedback function to encode messages, which are sequences of inputs of the system. So left invertibility property enables the receiver to recover the messages. The secret key is formed by the system

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {N. Dubbini and A. Carluccio and A. Bicchi} } @article {1282, title = {Modification of Pointing Performance in Altered Gravitational Environments}, journal = {Microgravity Science and Technology}, volume = {22}, year = {2010}, note = {

10.1007/s12217-009-9163-3

}, pages = {123-128}, abstract = {

The Fitts{\textquoteright} law describes a correlation between the time needed to complete basic tasks such as pointing movements and the level of knowledge of the specific target to be reached. While it has been largely proved in normal gravity, very few experiments have been carried out in altered gravitational conditions. In our experiment, four subjects were positioned in front of a panel where round targets were placed along a circumference. They carried out pointing movements towards the targets when these were switched on. The task time was acquired and processed off-line. In all the cases, the performance of each subject have been significantly modified in the altered gravitational environment and, in particular, hypergravity seems to affect motor performance more considerably than microgravity. Even if experiments involving several subjects and more complex tasks have to be carried out in order to confirm our findings, these results show that ergonomics could be strongly affected by the modification of gravity, especially during the first phase of exposure to gravity alteration.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0938-0108}, doi = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12217-009-9163-3}, author = {Ciofani, G. and Migliore, A. and D. Mazzei and Carrozza, M. and P. Dario} } @article {1518, title = {Molecularly imprinted nanospheres for applications in a novel model biosensor-scaffold,}, journal = {SENSORS AND ACTUATORS. B, CHEMICAL}, year = {2010}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0925-4005}, author = {MORELLI, I and V. Chiono and G. Vozzi and G. Ciardelli and SILVESTRI, D and P. Giusti} } @conference {2021, title = {A MR Compatible Sensing Glove for Brain Studies}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the 16th Annual Meeting of the Organization for Human Brain Mapping}, year = {2010}, month = {6-10 Giugno}, pages = {1262 MT{\textendash}PM{\textendash}}, author = {N. Vanello and V. Hartwig and M. Tesconi and E. Ricciardi and G. Zupone and A. Tognetti and D. Bonino and E. P. Scilingo and F. Cutolo and G. Giovannetti and P. Pietrini and D. De Rossi and L. Landini} } @conference {2022, title = {Neural Correlates of Human-Robot Handshaking}, booktitle = {Proc. of the 19th IEEE International Symposium in Robot and Human Interactive Communication}, year = {2010}, note = {

http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?eid=2-s2.0-78649822141\&partnerID=40\&md5=e485b7dd908e69afd535dc7792a8e5b3

}, month = {13-15, Settembre}, pages = {555{\textendash}561}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, address = {NEW YORK {\textendash} USA}, doi = {10.1109/ROMAN.2010.5598624}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/ROMAN.2010.5598624}, author = {N. Vanello and D. Bonino and E. Ricciardi and M. Tesconi and E. P. Scilingo and V. Hartwig and A. Tognetti and G. Zupone and F. Cutolo and G. Giovannetti and P. Pietrini and D. De Rossi and L. Landini} } @article {1516, title = {NEW BIOARTIFICIAL SYSTEMS AND BIODEGRADABLE SYNTHETIC POLYMERS FOR CARDIAC TISSUE ENGINEERING: A PRELIMINARY SCREENING}, journal = {BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING. APPLICATIONS, BASIS, COMMUNICATIONS}, year = {2010}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1016-2372}, author = {Rosellini, E and Cristallini, C and Barbani, N and G. Vozzi and D{\textquoteright}Acunto, M and G. Ciardelli and P. Giusti} } @conference {1536, title = {Pam Scaffold For Tissue Engineering Of Skeletal Muscle}, booktitle = {Congresso Nazionale di Bioingegneria 2010}, year = {2010}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. Cei and E. Loro and A. Malena and L. Vergani and G. Vozzi} } @inbook {1867, title = {Sensor Systems and Software}, year = {2010}, pages = {111{\textendash}126}, publisher = {Springer}, organization = {Springer}, chapter = {Physical characterization of acoustic communication channel properties in underwater mobile sensor networks}, keywords = {Robotics}, isbn = {9783642115271}, author = {A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi and A. Munaf{\`o}} } @conference {1526, title = {Site Specific Nano-Tuning of Scaffolds Using Inkjet Printing}, booktitle = {NIP Conference}, year = {2010}, address = {Austin, Texas }, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Tirella, A and F. Montemurro and Vinci, B. and Vozzi, F. and G. Vozzi and Sassano, D and Sandri, T and Cognolato, L and A. Ahluwalia} } @article {2017, title = {Smart Garments for Emergency Operators: The ProeTEX Project}, journal = {IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY IN BIOMEDICINE}, volume = {14}, year = {2010}, pages = {694{\textendash}701}, issn = {1089-7771}, doi = {10.1109/TITB.2010.2045003}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/TITB.2010.2045003}, author = {Curone, D. and Secco, E. L. and A. Tognetti and G. Loriga and Dudnik, G. and Risatti, M. and Whyte, R. and Bonfiglio, A. and G. Magenes} } @article {1519, title = {SOFT-MI: a novel microfabrication technique integrating Soft-lithography and Molecular imprinting for tissue engineering applications}, journal = {BIOTECHNOLOGY AND BIOENGINEERING}, year = {2010}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0006-3592}, author = {G. Vozzi and MORELLI, I and Vozzi, F. and ANDREONI, C and SALSEDO, E and MORACHIOLI, A and P. Giusti and G. Ciardelli} } @conference {1866, title = {Stabilizability of Linear Differential Inclusions via R-Functions}, booktitle = {IFAC Symposium on Nonlinear Control Systems (NOLCOS)}, year = {2010}, month = {Sep}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi and S Grammatico} } @article {1515, title = {Three-dimensional microfabricated scaffolds with cardiac extracellular matrix-like architecture}, journal = {INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ARTIFICIAL ORGANS}, year = {2010}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0391-3988}, author = {Rossellini, E and G. Vozzi and Barbani, N and P. Giusti and Cristallini, C} } @inbook {FSBB10, title = {Visual Servoing via Advanced Numerical Methods}, volume = {401}, year = {2010}, pages = {335 - 360}, publisher = {Springer}, organization = {Springer}, chapter = {Unicycle{\textendash}like Robots with Eye-In-Hand Monocular Cameras: from PBVS Towards IBVS}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {D. Fontanelli and P Salaris and F. A. W. Belo and A. Bicchi}, editor = {Graziano Chesi and Koichi Hashimoto} } @conference {CGBSB10, title = {VSA-HD: From the Enumeration Analysis to the Prototypical Implementation}, booktitle = {IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent RObots and Systems}, year = {2010}, month = {October}, pages = {3676 - 3681}, address = {St. Louis MO USA}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {M. G. Catalano and G. Grioli and F. Bonomo and R. Schiavi and A. Bicchi} } @conference {FCB-CDC09, title = {Constructive robustness analysis of a limited-information feedback approach for nonlinear systems}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE International Conference on Decision and Control}, year = {2009}, month = {December, 16 - 1}, address = {Shangai, China}, abstract = {

We analyze the robustness properties of a recently introduced strategy for stabilization with limited information. We show that if the nominal closed-loop system can be made Input-to-State Stable (ISS) with respect to measurement errors, parameter uncertainty and exogenous disturbances then this robustness is preserved when only limited information is available on the plant. More precisely, if a sufficiently bandwidth is available on the communication network, then the resulting closed-loop is semiglobally practically ISS.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {A. Franci and A. Chaillet} } @conference {1856, title = {Cooperating AUV Teams: Adaptive Area Coverage With Space-Varying Communication Constraints}, booktitle = {IEEE Oceans Europe 09}, year = {2009}, month = {May}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/OCEANSE.2009.5278255}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/OCEANSE.2009.5278255}, author = {A. Caiti and G. Casalino and A. Munaf{\`o} and A. Turetta} } @article {1541, title = {Development of a RGDS-peptide modified polyurethane for tissue regeneration}, journal = {ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY}, volume = {611}, year = {2009}, pages = {249{\textendash}250}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0065-2598}, author = {Rechichi, A and Sartori, S and CAPORALE, A and G. Ciardelli and G. Vozzi and MAZZUCCO, L and PEGGION, E and P. Giusti} } @article {1300, title = {Folaga: a low cost autonomous underwater vehicle combining glider and auv capabilities}, journal = {OCEAN ENGINEERING}, volume = {36}, year = {2009}, pages = {24{\textendash}38}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0029-8018}, doi = {10.1016/j.oceaneng.2008.08.014}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1016/j.oceaneng.2008.08.014}, author = {A. Alvarez and A. Caffaz and A. Caiti and G. Casalino and L. Gualdesi and A. Turetta and R. Viviani} } @article {1296, title = {F{\`o}laga: A low cost AUV/glider for coastal environmental sampling}, journal = {UNDERWATER TECHNOLOGY}, volume = {28}, year = {2009}, pages = {151{\textendash}157}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1756-0543}, doi = {10.3723/ut.28.151}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.3723/ut.28.151}, author = {A. Caffaz and A. Caiti and G. Casalino and L. Gualdesi and A. Turetta} } @article {1297, title = {From remote experiments to web-based learning objects: an advanced tele-laboratory for robotics and control systems}, journal = {IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON INDUSTRIAL ELECTRONICS}, volume = {56}, year = {2009}, pages = {4817{\textendash}4825}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0278-0046}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi} } @article {1299, title = {Generalised Entropy of Curves for the Analysis and Classification of Dynamical Systems}, journal = {ENTROPY}, volume = {11}, year = {2009}, pages = {249{\textendash}270}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1099-4300}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi} } @conference {1855, title = {HISS: Harbour Intrusion Simulator System}, booktitle = {IEEE Oceans Europe 09}, year = {2009}, month = {May}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/OCEANSE.2009.5278264}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/OCEANSE.2009.5278264}, author = {A. Caiti and A. Munaf{\`o} and G. Vettori} } @article {1539, title = {Melt-extruded guides for peripheral nerve regeneration. Part I: Poly(epsilon-caprolactone)}, journal = {BIOMEDICAL MICRODEVICES}, year = {2009}, pages = {1037-1050}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1387-2176}, author = {V. Chiono and G. Vozzi and Vozzi, F. and C. Salvadori and F. Dini and F. Carlucci and ARISPICI, M and S. Burchielli and DI SCIPIO, F and GEUNA, S and FORNARO, M and TOS, P and Nicolino, S and Audisio, C and Perroteau, I and CHIARAVALLOTI, A and C. Domenici and P. Giusti and G. Ciardelli} } @article {1542, title = {A new library of HEMET model: Insulin effects on hepatic metabolism}, journal = {COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE}, volume = {94}, year = {2009}, pages = {181{\textendash}189}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0169-2607}, doi = {10.1016/j.cmpb.2008}, author = {CUTRONE, A and C. De Maria and Vinci, B. and Vozzi, F. and A. Ahluwalia and G. Vozzi} } @conference {2027, title = {ntegrating hands-free interface into 3d virtual reality environments}, booktitle = {ARO Non-Manual Control Devices Symposium}, year = {2009}, pages = {{\textendash}}, author = {A. Tognetti and Gulrez, T and N. Carbonaro and G. Dalle Mura and G. Zupone and D. De Rossi} } @article {1540, title = {Polyurethane unimorph bender microfabricated with Pressure Assisted Microsyringe (PAM) for biomedical applications}, journal = {MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING. C}, volume = {29}, year = {2009}, pages = {1835{\textendash}1841}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0928-4931}, author = {Tartarisco, G. and G. GALLONE and F. Carpi and G. Vozzi} } @article {1543, title = {Preparation and characterization of alginate/gelatin blend films for cardiac tissue engineering}, journal = {JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH. PART A}, volume = {91}, year = {2009}, pages = {447-453}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1549-3296}, doi = {10.1002/jbm.a.32216}, author = {Rosellini, E and Cristallini, C and Barbani, N and G. Vozzi and P. Giusti} } @conference {1859, title = {R-composition of Lyapunov functions}, booktitle = {2009 17th Mediterranean Conference on Control and Automation}, year = {2009}, pages = {126{\textendash}131}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1109/MED.2009.5164527}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/MED.2009.5164527}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi and S Grammatico} } @article {1298, title = {Robotics techniques for data acquisition in underwater archeology}, journal = {INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MECHANICS AND CONTROL}, volume = {10}, year = {2009}, pages = {45{\textendash}51}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1590-8844}, author = {G. Conte and S. M. Zanoli and D. Scaradozzi and A. Caiti} } @conference {ACBBGSFB-IROS09, title = {A Rough-Terrain, Casting Robot for the ESA Lunar Robotics Challenge}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent RObots and Systems}, year = {2009}, month = {October, 11 - 15}, pages = {3336-3342}, address = {St. Louis MO USA}, abstract = {

This paper describes the design and implementation of DAVID, a lunar vehicle developed for the European Space Agency (ESA) Lunar Robotics Challenge, presenting severe terrain negotiation and sample acquisition challenges. We discuss in some detail two of the main innovative aspects of our entry to the challenge, i.e. the locomotion system and the sample acquisition system. Motivated by the challenge specifications, a range of different locomotion systems were considered, among which we chose a simple, rugged and effective wheeled system. We provide an account of the choice of five different types of wheels, which were designed, analyzed and experimentally tested in conditions similar to the challenge. The system eventually turned out to be very effective in negotiating 89\% slopes of volcanic terrain on the challenge site, Mount Teide in Tenerife. To reduce the distance to be traveled on the difficult terrain and avoid risks in reaching the lowest parts of a crater, the vehicle was endowed with an innovative sample acquisition system, i.e. a casting manipulator. Casting manipulation is a technique in which the end-effector is thrown, the sample material is acquired, and the end-effector is retrieved using a light tether that acts as a

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {S. Alicino and M. G. Catalano and F. Bonomo and F. A. W. Belo and G. Grioli and R. Schiavi and A. Fagiolini and A. Bicchi} } @article {2026, title = {A SENSING SEAT FOR HUMAN AUTHENTICATION}, journal = {IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON INFORMATION FORENSICS AND SECURITY}, volume = {4}, year = {2009}, pages = {451{\textendash}459}, issn = {1556-6013}, author = {M. Ferro and G. Pioggia and A. Tognetti and N. Carbonaro and D. De Rossi} } @conference {2031, title = {A sensorized glove for hand rehabilitation}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the Annual Northeast Bioengineering Conference}, year = {2009}, month = {3-5 April}, pages = {139{\textendash}140}, doi = {10.1109/NEBC.2009.4967775}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/NEBC.2009.4967775}, author = {F. Cutolo and C. Mancinelli and S. Patel and N. Carbonaro and M. Schmid and A. Tognetti and D. De Rossi and P. Bonato} } @article {1538, title = {Simplified cell culture method for the diagnosis of atypical Primary Ciliary}, journal = {THORAX}, volume = {64}, year = {2009}, pages = {1077-81}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0040-6376}, doi = {10.1136/thx.2008}, author = {M. PIFFERI and F. Montemurro and CANGIOTTI, A M and RAGAZZO, V and DI CICCO, M and Vinci, B. and G. Vozzi and MACCHIA, P and BONER, A L} } @conference {1854, title = {Stability analysis of dynamical systems via R-functions}, booktitle = {Proc. European Control Conference}, year = {2009}, month = {July}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi and S Grammatico} } @conference {1857, title = {System performance trade-off in underwater harbour protection}, booktitle = {Proc. Int. Conf. Underwater Acoustic Measurements 09}, year = {2009}, month = {Jun}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Caiti and A. Munaf{\`o} and G. Vettori} } @article {1295, title = {Underwater vehicle technology in the European research project VENUS}, journal = {UNDERWATER TECHNOLOGY}, volume = {28}, year = {2009}, pages = {175{\textendash}185}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1756-0543}, doi = {10.3723/ut.28.175}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.3723/ut.28.175}, author = {G. Conte and L. Gambella and D. Scaradozzi and S. M. Zanoli and A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o} and A. Alcocer and J. Alves and B. Cardeira and R. Cunha and F. Curado and P. Oliveira and A. Oliveira and A. Pascoal and M. Rufino and L. Sebasti{\~a}o and C. Silvestre} } @conference {1858, title = {On the use of the generalised entropy of curves to evaluate chaotic behaviours}, booktitle = {International Scientific Conference on Physics and Control}, year = {2009}, month = {Aug}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi} } @conference {2030, title = {Wearable Kinesthetic Systems and Emerging Technologies in Actuation for Upperlimb Neurorehabilitation}, booktitle = {Proc. of the IEEE EMBC 2009}, year = {2009}, month = {02/09/ - 06/09/}, pages = {6830{\textendash}6833}, doi = {10.1109/IEMBS.2009.5334481}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/IEMBS.2009.5334481}, author = {D. De Rossi and F. Carpi and F. Lorussi and E. P. Scilingo and A. Tognetti} } @article {1550, title = {Chitosan/gelatin blends for biomedical applications}, journal = {JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH. PART A}, volume = {86}, year = {2008}, pages = {311{\textendash}322}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1549-3296}, author = {PULIERI, E and V. Chiono and G. Ciardelli and G. Vozzi and A. Ahluwalia and C. Domenici and Vozzi, F. and P. Giusti} } @conference {1649, title = {Composite polyurethane and carbon black bimorph bender microfabricated with pressure assisted microsyringe (PAM) for biomedical applications}, year = {2008}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Tartarisco, G. and G. GALLONE and F. Carpi and G. Vozzi} } @article {1549, title = {Criticality of the Biological and Physical Stimuli Array Inducing Resident Cardiac Stem Cell Determination}, journal = {STEM CELLS}, volume = {26}, year = {2008}, pages = {2093{\textendash}2103}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1066-5099}, author = {G. Forte and CAROTENUTO, F and F. Pagliari and S. Pagliari and COSSA, P and FIACCAVENTO, R and A. Ahluwalia and G. Vozzi and Vinci, B. and SERAFINO, A and RINALDI, A and E. Traversa and CAROSELLA, L and M. Minieri and P. Di Nardo} } @article {1629, title = {Degradable block polyurethanes from nontoxicbuilding blocks as scaffold materials to support cell growth and proliferation}, journal = {JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH. PART A}, year = {2008}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1549-3296}, author = {Rechichi, A and G. Ciardelli and D{\textquoteright}Acunto, M and G. Vozzi and P. Giusti} } @conference {CB-CDC08, title = {Delay compensation in packet-switching networked controlled systems}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Decision and Control}, year = {2008}, pages = {3620 - 3625}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and A. Bicchi} } @article {1560, title = {Enzymatically-modified melt-extruded guides for peripheral nerve repair}, journal = {ENGINEERING IN LIFE SCIENCES}, year = {2008}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1618-0240}, author = {V. Chiono and G. Ciardelli and G. Vozzi and CORTEZ, J and Barbani, N and GENTILE, P and P. Giusti} } @article {1556, title = {Genipin-crosslinked chitosan/gelatin blends for biomedical applications}, journal = {JOURNAL OF MATERIALS SCIENCE. MATERIALS IN MEDICINE}, year = {2008}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0957-4530}, author = {V. Chiono and PULIERI, E and G. Vozzi and G. Ciardelli and A. Ahluwalia and P. Giusti} } @article {1281, title = {A High-Throughput Bioreactor System for Simulating Physiological Environments}, journal = {IEEE T Ind Electron}, volume = {55}, year = {2008}, pages = {3273{\textendash}3280}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1109/TIE.2008.928122}, author = {D. Mazzei and Vozzi, F. and Cisternino, A. and G. Vozzi and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {1643, title = {Nanotechnology in Tissue Engineering}, booktitle = {Congresso Nazionale di Bioingegneria 2008}, year = {2008}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Ciardelli and V. Chiono and Rechici, A and Sartori, S and G. Vozzi and Bignardi, C and Georgiev, G and P. Giusti} } @conference {1644, title = {Nerve guide for peripheral nerve re generation}, year = {2008}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Tonda-Turo, C and V. Chiono and GEUNA, S and Perroteau, I and G. Vozzi and G. Ciardelli} } @article {1551, title = {Nerve regeneration using novel biomaterial supports}, journal = { Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy }, year = {2008}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0753-3322}, author = {G. Vozzi and V. Chiono and Vozzi, F. and C. Salvadori and F. Dini and F. Carlucci and ARISPICI, M and S. Burchielli and G. Ciardelli and P. Giusti} } @conference {1635, title = {Nerve regeneration using novel biomaterial supports}, booktitle = {Biomedicine \& Pharmacotherapy}, year = {2008}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Vozzi and V. Chiono and Vozzi, F. and C. Salvadori and F. Dini and F. Carlucci and ARISPICI, M and S. Burchielli and G. Ciardelli and P. Giusti} } @article {1558, title = {A New Bio-Inspired Robot Based on Senseless Motion: Theoretical study and Preliminary Technological Results}, journal = {MULTIDISCIPLINE MODELING IN MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES}, year = {2008}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1573-6105}, author = {COTRONEO, A and G. Vozzi and GEROVASI, L and D. De Rossi} } @article {1557, title = {PAM-microfabricated polyurethane scaffolds: in vivo and in vitro preliminary studies}, journal = {MACROMOLECULAR BIOSCIENCE}, year = {2008}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1616-5187}, author = {G. Vozzi and Rechichi, A and F. Dini and C. Salvadori and Vozzi, F. and S. Burchielli and F. Carlucci and ARISPICI, M and G. Ciardelli and P. Giusti and A. Ahluwalia} } @conference {AMC08, title = {Physical Human-Robot Interaction: Dependability, Safety, and Performance}, booktitle = {Proc. 10th Intl. Workshop Advanced Motion Control}, year = {2008}, pages = {9-14}, abstract = {

In this paper we discuss the problem of achieving good performance in accuracy and promptness by a robot manipulator under the condition that safety is guaranteed throughout task execution. Intuitively, while a rigid and powerful structure of the arm would favor its performance, lightweight compliant structures are more suitable for safe operation. The quantitative analysis of the resulting design trade-off between safety and performance has a strong impact on how robot mechanisms and controllers should be designed for human-interactive applications. We discuss few different possible concepts for safely actuating joints, and focus on aspects related to the implementation of the mechanics and control of this new class of robots.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Physical Human-Robot Interaction (pHRI), Robotics}, author = {A. Bicchi and M. Bavaro and G. Boccadamo and D. De Carli and R. Filippini and G. Grioli and M. Piccigallo and A. Rosi and R. Schiavi and S. Sen and G. Tonietti} } @article {1554, title = {Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)/poly(epsilon-caprolactone) blends for tissue engineering applications in the form of hollow fibers}, journal = {JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL MATERIALS RESEARCH. PART A}, year = {2008}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1549-3296}, author = {V. Chiono and G. Ciardelli and G. Vozzi and SOTGIU, MG and Vinci, B. and C. Domenici and P. Giusti} } @conference {1641, title = {Realizzazione di strutture micro fabbricate tramite tecnica di micro Laser Sintering per applicazione alla Tissue Engineering}, booktitle = {Congresso Nazionale Biomateriali 2008}, year = {2008}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Criscenti and Tirella, A and A. Ahluwalia and P. Giusti and G. Vozzi} } @article {VHTRTZGCSSGPSBPDRL08, title = {Sensing Glove for Brain Studies: Design and assessment of its Compatibility for fMRI with a Robust Test}, journal = {IEEE - ASME Transactions on Mechatronics}, volume = {13}, number = {3}, year = {2008}, pages = {345-354}, abstract = {

In this paper, we describe a biomimetic-fabric-based sensing glove that can be used tomonitor hand posture and gesture. Our device is made of a distributed sensor network of piezoresistive conductive elastomers integrated into an elastic fabric. This solution does not affect natural movement and hand gestures, and can be worn for a long time with no discomfort. The glove could be fruitfully employed in behavioral and functional studies with functional MRI (fMRI) during specific tactile or motor tasks. To assess MR compatibility of the system, a statistical test on phantoms is introduced. This test can also be used for testing the compatibility of mechatronic devices designed to produce different stimuli inside the MR environment. We propose a statistical test to evaluate changes in SNR and time-domain standard deviations between image sequences acquired under different experimental conditions. fMRI experiments on subjects wearing the glove are reported. The reproducibility of fMRIresults obtained with andwithout the glove was estimated. A good similarity between the activated regions was found in the two conditions.

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, author = {N. Vanello and V. Hartwig and M. Tesconi and E. Ricciardi and A. Tognetti and G. Zupone and R. Gassert and D. Chapuis and N. Sgambelluri and E. P. Scilingo and G. Giovannetti and V. Positano and M. F. Santarelli and A. Bicchi and P. Pietrini and D. De Rossi and L. Landini} } @article {1628, title = {Surface modification of a synthetic polyurethane by plasma glow discharge: preparation and characterisation of bioactive monolayers}, journal = {REACTIVE \& FUNCTIONAL POLYMERS}, volume = {68}, year = {2008}, pages = {809{\textendash}821}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1381-5148}, author = {Sartori, S and Rechichi, A and G. Vozzi and D{\textquoteright}Acunto, M and HEINE, E and P. Giusti and G. Ciardelli} } @inbook {1632, title = {Tissue Engineering: Roles, Materials and Applications}, year = {2008}, pages = {{\textendash}}, chapter = {Gellan/Gelatin-Based Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {V. Chiono and G. Vozzi and G. Ciardelli} } @article {1400, title = {Underwater cartography for archaeology in the VENUS project}, journal = {GEOMATICA}, volume = {62}, year = {2008}, pages = {419{\textendash}427}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1195-1036}, author = {P. Drap and J. SEINTURIER and G. Conte and A. Caiti and D. Scaradozzi and S. M. Zanoli and P. GAMBOGI} } @article {CHLOscl05, title = {Uniform Semiglobal Practical Asymptotic Stability for Non-autonomous Cascaded Systems and Applications}, journal = {Automatica}, volume = {44}, year = {2008}, pages = {337-347 }, abstract = {

It is due to the modularity they provide that results for cascaded systems have proved their utility in numerous control applications as well as in the development of general control techniques based on {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}adding integrators{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright}. Nevertheless, the standing assumptions in most of the present literature on cascaded systems is that, when \emph{decoupled}, the subsystems constituting the cascade are uniformly globally asymptotically stable (UGAS). Hence existing results fail in the more general case when the subsystems are uniformly semiglobally practically asymptotically stable (USPAS). This situation is often encountered in control practice, {\i}t e.g.}, in control of physical systems with external perturbations, measurement noise, unmodelled dynamics, {\i}t etc}. After giving a rigorous framework for the analysis of such stability properties, this paper generalizes previous results for cascades by establishing that, under a uniform boundedness condition on its solutions, the cascade of two USPAS systems remains USPAS. An analogous result is derived for uniformly semiglobally asymptotically stable (USAS) systems in cascade. Furthermore, we show the utility of our results in the PID control of mechanical systems affected by unknown non-dissipative forces and considering the dynamics of the DC motors.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, doi = {10.1016/j.automatica.2007.05.019}, author = {A. Chaillet and A. Lor} } @article {1655, title = {Acute retinal ganglion cell injury caused by intraocular pressure spikes is mediated by endogenous extracellular ATP}, journal = {EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE}, volume = {25}, year = {2007}, pages = {2741{\textendash}2754}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0953-816X}, author = {RESTA, V. and NOVELLI, E. and G. Vozzi and SCARPA, C. and CALEO, M. and A. Ahluwalia and SOLINI, A. and SANTINI, E. and PARISI, V. and DI VIRGILIO, F. and GALLI-RESTA, L.} } @article {1402, title = {Adaptive on-line planning of environmental sampling missions with a team of cooperating autonomous underwater vehicles}, journal = {INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CONTROL}, volume = {80}, year = {2007}, pages = {1151{\textendash}1168}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0020-7179}, doi = {10.1080/00207170701230973}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1080/00207170701230973}, author = {A. Caiti and A. Munaf{\`o} and R. Viviani} } @conference {1662, title = {Bioactive polyurethanes trough new functionalisation stretegies}, booktitle = {Biotechnical functionalisation of renewable polymeric materials}, year = {2007}, month = {16-17 April}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Ciardelli and Sartori, S and Rechichi, A and CAPORALE, A and S. BRONCO and G. Vozzi and P. Giusti} } @conference {1660, title = {Biomimetic materials for tissue engineering through enzyme mediated protein modification}, booktitle = {European Polymer Congress 2007 }, year = {2007}, month = {2-6 July}, address = {Portoroz, Slovenia}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Ciardelli and GENTILE, P and Mandrile, R. and V. Chiono and Barbani, N and Mattioli-Belmonte, M. and G. Vozzi and P. Giusti} } @conference {1657, title = {Cardiac and Mesenchymal Stem Cell Growth and Selective Differentiation on Three Dimensional Bioerodable Scaffolds}, booktitle = {Termis Eu-Meeting London (UK) 4-7 September 2007 Tissue Engineering 2007, 13 (7): 1647}, year = {2007}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Forte and CAROTENUTO, F and G. Vozzi and COSSA, P and FIACCAVENTO, R and M. Minieri and F. Pagliari and S. Pagliari and Romano, R. and A. Ahluwalia and E. Traversa and P. Di Nardo} } @conference {1269, title = {Development of a high-throughput bioreactor system for biomedical applications}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Symp. Industrial Electronics ISIE 2007}, year = {2007}, pages = {2788{\textendash}2792}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1109/ISIE.2007.4375051}, author = {D. Mazzei and G. Vozzi and A. Ahluwalia and Cisternino, A.} } @inbook {HCVRSGSPPLB07, title = {Electrocutaneous stimulation of skin mechanoreceptors for tactile studies with functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging}, booktitle = {Encyclopedia of Healthcare Information Systems}, year = {2007}, pages = {497 - 503}, publisher = {Medical Information Science}, organization = {Medical Information Science}, keywords = {Haptics}, author = {V. Hartwig and C. Cappelli and N. Vanello and E. Ricciardi and E. P. Scilingo and G. Giovannetti and M. F. Santarelli and V. Positano and A. Bicchi and P. Pietrini and L. Landini} } @conference {1658, title = {Hydroxyapatite/collagen composite matrices for bone reconstruction}, booktitle = {Termis Eu-Meeting - Tissue Engineering 2007}, year = {2007}, pages = {13 (7): 1708}, address = {London (UK) }, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {G. Ciardelli and GENTILE, P and Mandrile, R. and V. Chiono and Barbani, N and Mattioli-Belmonte, M. and G. Vozzi and P. Giusti} } @article {1652, title = {La rigenerazione nervosa negli innesti a polarit{\`a}~ invertita: dati a confronto tra applicazione sull{\textquoteright}uomo e analisi sperimentale su modello animale}, journal = {RIVISTA DI CHIRURGIA DELLA MANO}, year = {2007}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. S. POGGI and Massarella, M. and Cerulli, G. and Caraffa, A. and S. Burchielli and Modenato, M. and Cantile, C. and G. Vozzi and C. De Maria and Lisanti, M. and Bonicoli, E. and Cantini, G.} } @conference {1661, title = {Molecularly Imprinted Polymers with Recognition Properties Toward Fibronectin H-Gly-Arg-Gly-Asp-Ser-OH Sequence}, booktitle = {European Polymer Congress 2007}, year = {2007}, month = {2-6 July}, address = {Portoroz, Slovenia}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Rechichi, A and Rosellini, E and G. Ciardelli and Barbani, N and G. Vozzi and P. Giusti and Cristallini, C} } @article {1654, title = {New biomedical devices with selective peptide recognition properties. Part 1: Characterization and cytotoxicity of molecularly imprinted polymers}, journal = {JOURNAL OF CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR MEDICINE}, year = {2007}, pages = {{\textendash}}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {1582-1838}, author = {Rechichi, A and Cristallini, C and VITALE, U. and G. Ciardelli and Barbani, N and G. Vozzi and P. Giusti} } @conference {1659, title = {New strategies in polymer functionalisation}, booktitle = {Biosurf, 28-31 August 2007}, year = {2007}, pages = { European Cells and Materials Vol. 14. Suppl. 3}, address = {Zurich (Switzerland)}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Sartori, S and Rechichi, A and G. Ciardelli and CAPORALE, A and G. Vozzi and MAZZUCCO, L} } @booklet {CHCHLOSIcdc07, title = {Towards uniform linear time-invariant stabilization of systems with persistency of excitation}, howpublished = {Submitted to CDC 2007}, year = {2007}, month = {December}, address = {New Orleans, USA}, abstract = {

Consider the controlled system $dx/dt = Ax + \alpha(t)Bu$ where the pair $(A,B)$ is stabilizableand $\alpha(t)$ takes values in $[0,1]$ and is persistently exciting. In particular, when $\alpha(t)$ becomes zero the system dynamics switches to an uncontrollable system. In this paper, we address the following question: is it possible to find a linear time-invariant state-feedback, only depending on $(A,B)$ and the parameters of the persistent excitation, which globally exponentially stabilizes the system? We give a positive answer to this question for two cases: when $A$ is neutrally stable and when the system is the double integrator.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and Y. Chitour and A. Lor and M. Sigalotti} } @booklet {CHCHLOSI07, title = {Uniform stabilization for linear systems with persistency of excitation. The neutrally stable and the double integrator cases}, howpublished = {Submitted to Mathematics of Control, Signals and Systems}, year = {2007}, abstract = {

Consider the controlled system $dx/dt = Ax + \alpha(t)Bu$ where the pair $(A,B)$ is stabilizable and $\alpha(t)$ takes values in $[0,1]$ and is persistently exciting. In particular, when $\alpha(t)$ becomes zero the system dynamics switches to an uncontrollable system. In this paper, we address the following question: is it possible to find a linear time-invariant state-feedback, only depending on $(A,B)$ and the parameters of the persistent excitation, which globally asymptotically stabilizes the system? We give a positive answer to this question for two cases: when $A$ is neutrally stable and when the system is the double integrator.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and Y. Chitour and A. Lor and M. Sigalotti} } @article {1401, title = {Working towards autonomous distributed systems}, journal = {SEA TECHNOLOGY}, volume = {48}, year = {2007}, note = {

Editorial

}, pages = {7{\textendash}7}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0093-3651}, author = {A. Caiti} } @conference {GVetal06, title = {Active Mechatronic Interface for Haptic Perception Studies with Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Compatibility and Design Criteria}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Robotics and Automation}, year = {2006}, pages = {3832-3837}, abstract = {

Functional brain exploration methodologies such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), are critical tools to study perceptual and cognitive processes. In order to develop complex and well controlled fMRI paradigms, researchers are interested in using active interfaces with electrically powered actuators and sensors. Due to the particularity of the MR environment, safety and compatibility criteria have to be strictly followed in order to avoid risks to the subject under test, to the operators or to the environment, as well as to avoid artifacts in the images. This paper describes the design of an fMRI compatible mechatronic interface based on MR compatibility tests of materials and actuators. In particular, a new statistical test looks at the mean and variations of activity as a time series. The device with two degrees of freedom, allowing one translation with positionfeedback along a horizontal axis and one rotation about a vertical axis linked to the translation, was realized to investigate the brain mechanisms of dynamic tactile perception tasks. It can be used to move and orient various objects below the finger for controlled tactile stimulation. The MR compatibility of the complete interface is shown using the same statistical test as well as a functional study with a human subject.

}, keywords = {Haptics}, author = {R. Gassert and N. Vanello and D. Chapuis and V. Hartwig and E. P. Scilingo and A. Bicchi and L. Landini and E. Burdet and H. Bleuler} } @conference {FontanelliVGCB06, title = {Adaptive non Linear Control of Dynamic Mobile Robots with Parameters Uncertainty}, booktitle = {Int. IFAC Symp. on Robot Control}, year = {2006}, month = {September}, address = {Bologna, Italy}, abstract = {

Research of a modular stabilizing control law for uncertain, nonholonomic mobile systems with actuators limitation has been investigated. Modular design allows the definition of a stabilizing control law for the kinematic model. The presence of uncertainties in the actuators parameters or in the vehicle dynamics has been treated both adding suitable components to the Lyapunov function and using parameters adaptation laws (e.g. adaptive control and backstepping techniques). Simulations are reported for the set point stabilization of a unicycle like vehicle showing the feasibility of the proposed approach. Torque limitations for a unicycle like vehicle has been investigated using backstepping techniques for the vehicle tracking problem. Simulations are reported.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {D. Fontanelli and R. Viviani and L. Greco and A. Caiti and A. Bicchi} } @conference {KRLOCHNIcdc06, title = {Adaptive output feedback control of spacecraft relative translation}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Decision and Control}, year = {2006}, month = {December}, address = {San Diego, USA}, abstract = {

We address the problem of tracking relative translation in a leader-follower spacecraft formation using feedback from relative position only and under parameter uncertainty (spacecraft mass) and uncertainty in the leader variables (true anomaly rate and rate of change). We only assume boundedness of orbital perturbations and the leader control force but with unknown bounds. Under these conditions we propose a controller that renders the closed-loop system, uniformly semiglobally practically asymptotically stable. In particular, the domain of attraction can be made arbitrarily large by picking convenient gains, and the state errors in the closed-loop system are proved to converge from any initial condition within the domain of attraction to a ball in close vicinity of the origin in a stable way; moreover, this ball can be diminished arbitrarily by increasing the gains in the control law. Simulation results of a leader-follower spacecraft formation using the proposed controller are presented.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {R. Kristiansen and A. Lor and A. Chaillet and P. J. Nicklasson} } @conference {TSCHPAJOcdc06, title = {Cascaded lemma for set-stable systems}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Decision and Control}, year = {2006}, month = {December}, address = {San Diego, USA}, abstract = {

A previous result about uniform global asymptotic stability (UGAS) of the equilibrium of a cascaded time-varying systems, is here also shown to hold for closed (not necessarily compact) sets composed by set-stable subsystems of a cascade. In view of this result an optimal control allocation approach is discussed.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {J. Tsonnas and A. Chaillet and E. Panteley and T. A. Johansen} } @conference {HCV06, title = {A Compatible Electrocutaneous Display for functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging application}, booktitle = {Proc. 28th IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Conference}, year = {2006}, note = {(poster presentation)}, pages = {100-102}, abstract = {In this paper we propose an MR (Magnetic Resonance) compatible electrocutaneous stimulator able to inject an electric current, variable in amplitude and frequency, into the fingertips in order to elicit tactile skin receptors (mechanoreceptors). The desired goal is to evoke specific tactile sensations selectively stimulating skin receptors by means of an electric current in place of mechanical stimuli. The field of application ranges from functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) tactile studies to augmented reality technology. The device here proposed is designed using safety criteria in order to comply with the threshold of voltage and current permitted by regulations. Moreover, MR safety and compatibility criteria were considered in order to perform experiments inside the MR scanner during an fMRI acquisition for functional brain activation analysis. Psychophysical laboratory tests are performed in order to define the different evoked tactile sensation. After verifying the device MR safety and compatibility on a phantom, a test on a human subject during fMRI acquisition is performed to visualize the brain areas activated by the simulated tactile sensation.}, keywords = {Haptics}, author = {V. Hartwig and C. Cappelli and N. Vanello and E. Ricciardi and E. P. Scilingo and G. Giovannetti and M. F. Santarelli and V. Positano and L. Landini and A. Bicchi} } @conference {CHLOcdc06, title = {A converse Lyapunov theorem for semiglobal practical asymptotic stability and application to cascades-based control}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Decision and Control}, year = {2006}, month = {December}, address = {San Diego, USA}, abstract = {

We present a converse Lyapunov result for nonlinear time-varying systems that are uniformly semiglobally asymptotically stable. This stability property pertains to the case when the size of initial conditions may be arbitrarily enlarged and the solutions of the system converge, in a stable way, to a closed ball that may be arbitrarily diminished by tuning a design parameter of the system (typically but not exclusively, a control gain). This result is notably useful in cascaded-based control when uniform practical asymptotic stability is established without a Lyapunov function, , {\i}t e.g.} via averaging. We provide a concrete example by solving the stabilization problem of a hovercraft.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and A. Lor} } @article {1403, title = {Efficient Numerical Approximation of Maximum Entropy Estimates}, journal = {INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CONTROL}, volume = {79}, year = {2006}, pages = {1145{\textendash}1155}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0020-7179}, doi = {10.1080/00207170600818373}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1080/00207170600818373}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Caiti and E. Crisostomi} } @conference {CIFA06, title = {Estim}, booktitle = {CIFA 2006}, year = {2006}, note = {In French}, month = {June}, address = {Bordeaux, France}, abstract = {Pour les syst{\`e}mes non-lin{\'e}aires, il est connu que la propri{\'e}t{\'e} de stabilit{\'e} asymptotique est conserv{\'e}e par la structure de cascade. Le pr}, author = {A. Chaillet} } @article {1404, title = {GIS tools application for risk assessment of toxic waste buried in seafloor sediments}, journal = {CHEMISTRY IN ECOLOGY}, year = {2006}, pages = {S145{\textendash}S161}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0275-7540}, doi = {10.1080/02757540600670828}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1080/02757540600670828}, author = {A. Caiti and R. Minciardi and M. Palmese and M. Robba and R. Sacile and A. Trucco} } @article {1405, title = {Innovative technologies in underwater archaeology: field experience, open problems, research lines}, journal = {CHEMISTRY IN ECOLOGY}, year = {2006}, pages = {S383{\textendash}S396}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0275-7540}, doi = {10.1080/02757540600572321}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1080/02757540600572321}, author = {A. Caiti and G. Casalino and G. Conte and S. M. Zanoli} } @conference {CHANmtns06, title = {Integral Input to State Stability for cascaded systems}, booktitle = {MTNS 2006}, year = {2006}, month = {July}, address = {Kyoto, Japan}, abstract = {

The Integral Input to State Stability (iISS) property is studied is the context of nonlinear time-invariant systems in cascade. A sufficient condition is given, in terms of the storage function of each subsystem, to ensure that the cascade composed of an iISS system driven by a Globally Asymptotically Stable (GAS) one remains GAS. Some sufficient conditions for the preservation of the iISS property under a cascade interconnection are also presented.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and D. Angeli} } @inbook {SSB06, title = {Minimally Invasive Therapies \& Novel Embedded Technology Systems}, booktitle = {ARISER 2006 Augmented Reality in Surgery}, year = {2006}, pages = {133-142}, abstract = {

Recent developments in advanced interface technology allowed to implement new haptic device for biomedical applications. Specifically, several innovative and more effective tools that allow people to interact by touch with virtual objects have been developed. Besides several applications such as gaming, entertainment, virtual reality, an important and promising field of application is the surgical simulation. Novice surgeons can be able to practice their first incisions without actually cutting anyone. Simulation for surgical training is a major focus for several research activity during the last few years. Simulating an organ is not easy, because is more complicated to model than is a common physical object, e.g. a ball. In this chapter we report several examples of haptic interfaces and introduce new technologies for implementation.

}, keywords = {Haptics}, author = {E. P. Scilingo and N. Sgambelluri and A. Bicchi}, editor = {S. Casciaro and A. Distante} } @article {CHLOautomatica05, title = {Necessary and sufficient conditions for uniform semiglobal practical asymptotic stability: Application to cascaded systems}, journal = {Automatica}, volume = {42}, number = {11}, year = {2006}, month = {November}, pages = {1899-1906}, abstract = {

It is well established that for a cascade of two uniformly globally asymptotically stable (UGAS) systems, the origin remains UGAS provided that the solutions of the cascade are uniformly globally bounded. While this result has met considerable popularity in specific applications it remains restrictive since, in practice, it is often the case that the decoupled subsystems are only uniformly \emph{semiglobally} \emph{practically} asymptotically stable (USPAS). Recently, we established that the cascade of USPAS systems is USPAS under a local boundedness assumption and the hypothesis that one knows a Lyapunov function for the driven subsystem. The contribution of this paper is twofold: 1) we establish USPAS of cascaded systems without the requirement of a Lyapunov function and 2) we present a converse theorem for USPAS. While other converse theorems in the literature cover the case of USPAS ours has the advantage of providing a bound on the gradient of the Lyapunov function, which is fundamental to establish theorems for cascades.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and A. Lor} } @inbook {BSSTB06, title = {Optimization and Fail-Safety Analysis of Antagonistic Actuation for pHRI}, booktitle = {European Robotics Symposium 2006}, series = {Springer Tracts in Advanced Robotics}, volume = {22}, year = {2006}, pages = {109 - 118}, publisher = {Springer Berlin / Heidelberg}, organization = {Springer Berlin / Heidelberg}, abstract = {

In this paper we consider some questions in the design of actuators for physical Human-Robot Interaction (pHRI) under strict safety requirements in all circumstances, including unexpected impacts and HW/SW failures. We present the design and optimization of agonistic-antagonistic actuation systems realizing the concept of variable impedance actuation (VIA). With respect to previous results in the literature, in this paper we consider a realistic physical model of antagonistic systems, and include the analysis of the effects of cross-coupling between actuators. We show that antagonistic systems compare well with other possible approaches in terms of the achievable performance while guaranteeing limited risks of impacts. Antagonistic actuation systems however are more complex in both hardware and software than other schemes. Issues are therefore raised, as to fault tolerance and fail safety of different actuation schemes. In this paper, we analyze these issues and show that the antagonistic implementation of the VIA concept fares very well under these regards also.

}, keywords = {Physical Human-Robot Interaction (pHRI), Robotics}, author = {G. Boccadamo and R. Schiavi and S. Sen and G. Tonietti and A. Bicchi}, editor = {H. Christensen} } @inbook {KRLOCHNI06, title = {Output feedback control of relative translation in a leader-follower spacecraft formation}, series = {Lecture Notes in Control and Information Sciences}, year = {2006}, pages = {131{\textendash}151}, publisher = {Springer Verlag}, organization = {Springer Verlag}, chapter = {in Workshop on Group Coordination and Cooperative Control}, address = {Tromsoe, Norway}, abstract = {

We present a solution to the problem of tracking relative translation in a leader-follower spacecraft formation using feedback from relative position only. Three controller configurations are presented which enables the follower spacecraft to track a desired reference trajectory relative to the leader. The controller design is performed for different levels of knowledge about the leader spacecraft and its orbit. The first controller assumes perfect knowledge of the leader and its orbital parameters, and renders the equilibrium points of the closed-loop system uniformly globally asymptotically stable (UGAS). The second controller uses the framework of the first to render the closed-loop system uniformly globally practically asymptotically stable (UGPAS), with knowledge of bounds on some orbital parameters, only. That is, the state errors in the closed-loop system are proved to converge from any initial conditions to a ball in close vicinity of the origin in a stable way, and this ball can be diminished arbitrarily by increasing the gains in the control law. The third controller, based on the design of the second, utilizes adaptation to estimate the bounds that were previously assumed to be known. The resulting closed-loop system is proved to be uniformly semiglobally practically asymptotically stable (USPAS). The last two controllers assume boundedness only of orbital perturbations and the leader control force. Simulation results of a leader-follower spacecraft formation using the proposed controllers are presented.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {R. Kristiansen and A. Lor and A. Chaillet and P. J. Nicklasson} } @conference {CHLOKEcdc06, title = {Robustness of PID controlled manipulators with respect to external disturbances}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Decision and Control}, year = {2006}, month = {December}, address = {San Diego, USA}, abstract = {

We present a robustness analysis for PID-controlled robot manipulators. For robot manipulators under the influence of external disturbances we provide a proof, and a tuning procedure, to establish uniform semiglobal practical asymptotic stability. In particular, in contrasts to other works on robust stability of PIDs, we do not use La Salle{\textquoteright}s principle but provide a strict Lyapunov function. The perturbations that we consider include discontinuous functions of the state, such as Coulomb friction. As corollaries of our main results, one may conclude the same stability property for the case of motion control using linear PID.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and A. Lor and R. Kelly} } @conference {PHRI06, title = {Safe and Dependable Physical Human-Robot Interaction in Anthropic Domains: State of the Art and Challenges}, booktitle = {Proc. IROS{\textquoteright}06 Workshop on pHRI - Physical Human-Robot Interaction in Anthropic Domains}, year = {2006}, publisher = {IEEE}, organization = {IEEE}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {R. Alami and A Albu-Schaeffer and A. Bicchi and R. Bischoff and R. Chatila and A. De Luca and De Santis, A and G. Giralt and J. Guiochet and G. Hirzinger and F. Ingrand and V. Lippiello and R. Mattone and D. Powell and S. Sen and B. Siciliano and G. Tonietti and L. Villani}, editor = {A. Bicchi and A. De Luca} } @article {1273, title = {Sensore di flusso tattile e di parametri ambientali}, year = {2006}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {PI2006A000119}, author = {G. Vozzi and Cisternino, A. and Colombo, D. and D. Mazzei and Migliore, A.} } @mastersthesis {ChailletPhD, title = {On stability and robustness of nonlinear systems {\textendash} Applications to cascaded systems}, year = {2006}, note = {

Obtained Cum Laude. Jury: J.M. Coron, T.I. Fossen (reviewer), A. Lor

}, month = {Jully}, school = {Universit}, type = {phd}, address = {Orsay, France}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet} } @conference {CHPAmtns06, title = {Stability of sets for nonlinear systems in cascade}, booktitle = {MTNS 2006}, year = {2006}, month = {July}, address = {Kyoto, Japan}, abstract = {

The stability of (not necessarily compact) sets for nonlinear systems in cascade is addressed. It is proved that if two sets are globally asymptotically stable (GAS) for the subsystems taken separately then their cross-product is GAS for the corresponding cascade, provided that the solutions of the latter are globally bounded. In the case of a suitable growth rate of the interconnection in the state of the driven subsystem, we show that this latter requirement can be relaxed to just forward completeness of the cascade. Our results extend similar results on the stability analysis of cascaded systems and find applications in partial stability analysis and adaptive control.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and E. Panteley} } @inbook {CTS-HYCON06, title = {Tools for semiglobal practical stability analysis of cascaded systems and applications}, series = {International Scientific and Technical Encyclopedia}, year = {2006}, month = {July}, chapter = {in Proceedings of the CTS{\textendash}HYCON Workshop}, address = {Paris, France}, abstract = {

We present sufficient conditions for semiglobal and/or practical stability in terms of Lyapunov-like functions. Based on this, we provide a result for the stability analysis of cascaded systems. A converse result is also presented for a particular class of uniformly semiglobally practically asymptotically stable systems. We briefly show the usefulness of these results through various applications in the control of mechanical systems.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet} } @article {CHLOEJC06, title = {Uniform global practical asymptotic stability for non-autonomous cascaded systems}, journal = {European Journal of Control}, volume = {12}, number = {6}, year = {2006}, abstract = {

This paper aims to give sufficient conditions for a cascade composed of nonlinear time-varying systems that are uniformly globally practically asymptotically stable (UGPAS) to be UGPAS. These conditions are expressed as relations between the Lyapunov function of the driven subsystem and the interconnection term. Our results generalise previous theorems that establish the uniform global asymptotic stability of cascades.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and A. Lor} } @conference {CHLO06, title = {Uniform Global Practical Stability for non-autonomous cascaded systems}, booktitle = {MTNS 2006}, year = {2006}, month = {July}, address = {Kyoto, Japan}, abstract = {

This paper aims to give sufficient conditions for a cascade composed of nonlinear time-varying systems that are uniformly globally practically asymptotically stable (UGPAS) to be UGPAS. These conditions are expressed as relations between the Lyapunov function of the driven subsystem and the interconnection term. Our results generalize previous theorems that establish the uniform global asymptotic stability of cascades.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and A. Lor} } @inbook {KYPACHPE06, title = {A virtual vehicle approach to underway replenishment}, series = {Lecture Notes in Control and Information Sciences}, year = {2006}, pages = {171{\textendash}189}, publisher = {Springer Verlag}, organization = {Springer Verlag}, chapter = {in Workshop on Group Coordination and Cooperative Control}, address = {Tromsoe, Norway}, abstract = {

The problem of coordinated control of a leader-follower system is solved using a virtual vehicle approach to alleviate information requirements on the leader. The virtual vehicle stabilizes to a shifted reference position/heading defined by the leader, and provides a reference velocity for the synchronization control law of the follower. Only position/heading measurements are available from the leader, and the closed-loop errors are shown to be uniformly globally practically asymptotically stable.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {E. Kyrkjebo and E. Panteley and A. Chaillet and K. Pettersen} } @inbook {DLMS01, title = {Wearable Mechanosensing and Emerging Technologies in Fabric-based Actuation}, booktitle = {Intelligent Textiles for Personal Protection and Safety}, volume = {3}, year = {2006}, pages = {55-64}, publisher = {IOS Press}, organization = {IOS Press}, edition = { }, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. De Rossi and F. Carpi and F. Lorussi and E. P. Scilingo and A. Tognetti} } @booklet {BCFGV05, title = {Adaptive nonlinear control of dynamic mobile robots with parameters uncertainty}, year = {2005}, publisher = {Dipartimento di Sistemi Elettrici e Automazione, Universit\à di Pisa}, abstract = {

Research of a modular stabilizing control law for uncertain, nonholonomic mobile systems with actuators limitation has been investigated. Modular design allows the definition of a stabilizing control law for the kinematic model. The presence of uncertainties in the actuators parameters or in the vehicle dynamics has been treated both adding suitable components to the Lyapunov function and using parameters adaptation laws (e.g. adaptive control and backstepping techniques). Simulations are reported for the set point stabilization of a unicycle like vehicle showing the feasibility of the proposed approach. Torque limitations for a unicycle like vehicle has been investigated using backstepping techniques for the vehicle tracking problem. Simulations are reported.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {A. Bicchi and A. Caiti and D. Fontanelli and L. Greco and R. Viviani} } @inbook {DCLPST05, title = {Electroactive fabrics and wearable man-machine interfaces}, booktitle = {Wearable Electronics and Photonics}, year = {2005}, pages = {59-80}, publisher = {Woodhead Publishing Ltd}, organization = {Woodhead Publishing Ltd}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. De Rossi and F. Carpi and F. Lorussi and R. Paradiso and E. P. Scilingo and A. Tognetti} } @conference {BBCCCCPT05, title = {From tele-laboratory to e-learning in automation curricula at the university of Pisa}, booktitle = {Proc. IFAC World Congress}, year = {2005}, abstract = {

The design and development of computational infrastructures supporting existing tele-laboratory experiences in the field of automation and robotics are described. The goal of the activity is to provide a proper e-learning environment in which remote laboratory experiences are integrated in a coherent way. The addition of e-learning features, as self-assessment and progress monitoring tools, asynchronous tutor interaction, authentication, evaluation and follow-up features, has led also to the modification of the original tele-laboratory set-up.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Bicchi and A. Caiti and V. Calabr{\`o} and T. Cecchini and A. Coppelli and L. Pallottino and G. Tonietti} } @booklet {CHANscl05, title = {Integral Input to State Stable systems in cascade}, howpublished = {Submitted to Systems and Control Letters}, year = {2005}, abstract = {

The Integral Input to State Stability (iISS) property is studied is the context of nonlinear time-invariant systems in cascade. A sufficient condition is given, in terms of the storage function of each subsystem, to ensure that the cascade composed of an iISS system driven by a Globally Asymptotically Stable (GAS) one remains GAS. Some sufficient conditions for the preservation of the iISS property under a cascade interconnection are also presented.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and D. Angeli} } @article {1407, title = {Localization of autonomous underwater vehicles by floating acoustic buoys: a set-membership approach}, journal = {IEEE JOURNAL OF OCEANIC ENGINEERING}, volume = {30}, year = {2005}, pages = {140{\textendash}152}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0364-9059}, author = {A. Caiti and A. Garulli and F. Livide and D Prattichizzo} } @article {BCPT03, title = {On-line Robotic Experiments for Tele-Education at the University of Pisa}, journal = {Int. Journal of Robotic Systems}, volume = {22}, number = {4}, year = {2005}, note = {

Special Issue on Internet \& Online Robots for Telemanipulation

}, pages = {217-230}, abstract = {

In this paper we describe work being done at our department to make the Robotics Laboratory accessible to student and colleagues, to execute and watch real-time experiments at any time and from anywhere. We describe few different installations, and highlight the underlying philosophy, wich is aimed at enlarging the lab in all the dimensions of space, time, and available resources, through the use of Internet technologies.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Bicchi and A. Caiti and L. Pallottino and G. Tonietti} } @article {1280, title = {Osmolality control by inhalation or micro-infusions?}, journal = {WIT Transactions on Biomedicine and Health}, volume = {9}, year = {2005}, pages = {559-570}, abstract = {

A model of osmolarity is proposed in this paper. This model represents a typical example of embedded physiological feedback control in physiology. Extensive simulation tests with a compartmental approach (using the specific software SAAM II) have been performed, showing that the model agrees with the findings published in the literature of endocrine physiology and with medical practice. As a relevant example of application of the models, the diabetes insipidus pathology was considered. In the case of central insipidus diabetes, it is possible to predict effects of a therapy, giving out synthetic ADH (where ADH is the antidiuretic hormone, the vasopressine) for restoring homeostatic conditions. Two kinds of therapy were considered: supply by inhalation or by microinfusion. In the first case, we evaluated the effect of inhalation using a two compartmental model to describe the effect of commercial drug (minirin, that means desmopressine acetate), and compared results with data existing in the literature. In the second case, the aim was to have a helping tool in the study and development of micro-infusors with sensors and controllers embedded so as to be able to release a controlled drug quantity, accorded to the patient and optimized for avoiding hyper- or ipo-concentrations of plasma ADH hormone. In this case, we used a mono-compartmental model, considering that the drug is infused directly in the plasma; results are again compared with data existing in the literature and with experimental data.

}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {Ciofani, G. and A. Landi and D. Mazzei and A. Mazzoldi} } @conference {MOCHLOBEifac05, title = {Output feedback control via adaptive observers with persistency of excitation}, booktitle = {Proc. 16th. IFAC World Congress}, year = {2005}, month = {July}, address = {Praha, Tcheck Republic}, abstract = {

We address the problem of adaptive observer design for nonlinear time-varying systems which can be transformed in the so-called output feedback form (linear in the unmeasured variables). The observer design follows up previous work on adaptive observers for linear systems and has the form of the classical Luenberger observers for linear systems except that the observer gain is time-varying. A specific form of persistency of excitation is imposed to guarantee the convergence of the (state and parameter) estimation errors. As for the output feedback loop, we proceed using a cascade approach, i.e., we impose the appropriate conditions so that the closed loop system has a cascaded structure. Uniform global asymptotic stability may then be concluded based on cascaded systems theory.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {De Leon Morales, J. and A. Chaillet and A. Lor and G. Besancon} } @conference {DOUBLEINT, title = {On the PE stabilization of time-varying systems: open questions and preliminary answers}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Decision and Control}, year = {2005}, month = {December}, pages = {6847{\textendash}6852}, address = {Sevilla, Spain}, abstract = {

We address the following fundamental question: given a double integrator and a linear control that stabilizes it exponentially, is it possible to use the {\em same} control input in the case that the control input is multiplied by a time-varying term? Such question has many interesting motivations and generalizations: 1) we can pose the same problem for an input gain that depends on the state and time hence, a specific persistency of excitation property for nonlinear systems must be imposed; 2) the stabilization {\textendash}with the same method{\textendash} of chains of integrators of higher order than two is fundamentally more complex and has applications in the stabilization of driftless systems; 3) the popular backstepping method stabilization method for systems with non-invertible input terms. The purpose of this note is two-fold: we present some open questions that we believe are significant in time-varying stabilization and present some preliminary answers for simple, yet challenging case-studies.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Lor and A. Chaillet and G. Besancon and Y. Chitour} } @conference {IARP05, title = {Physical Human-Robot Interaction in Anthropic Domains: Safety and Dependability}, booktitle = {Proc. 4th IARP/IEEE-EURON Workshop on Technical Challenges for Dependable Robots in Human Environments}, year = {2005}, abstract = {

In this paper we describe the motivations and the aim ofthe EURON-2 research project {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}\underline{P}hysical \underline{H}uman-\underline{R}obot \underline{I}nteraction in Anthropic \underline{Dom}ains{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} (PRHIDOM). This project, which moves along the lines indicated by the 1$^{st}$ IARP/IEEE-RAS Workshop on Technical Challenge for Dependable Robots in Human Environments \cite{iarp01}, is about {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}charting{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} the new {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}territory{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} of physical Human-Robot Interaction (pHRI). To ensure these goals, the integration competences in control, robotics, design and realization of mechanical systems, human-machine interaction, and in safety-dependability of mechatronic systems is required. The PHRIDOM Consortium is composed of 5 partners from 3 different European countries.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A Albu-Schaeffer and A. Bicchi and G. Boccadamo and R. Chatila and A. De Luca and De Santis, A and G. Giralt and G. Hirzinger and V. Lippiello and R. Mattone and R. Schiavi and B. Siciliano and G. Tonietti and L. Villani} } @conference {1266, title = {Physiological Cybernetics: Model of Osmolality and Volemia}, booktitle = {Proc. and 2005 European Control Conf. Decision and Control CDC-ECC {\textquoteright}05. 44th IEEE Conf}, year = {2005}, pages = {5552{\textendash}5557}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, doi = {10.1109/CDC.2005.1583046}, author = {Ciofani, G. and A. Landi and D. Mazzei and A. Mazzoldi} } @article {DCS05, title = {Polymers based interfaces as bioninspired {\textquoteright}smart skins{\textquoteright}}, journal = {Advances in Colloids and Interface Science}, volume = {116}, year = {2005}, month = {August}, pages = {165-178}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. De Rossi and F. Carpi and E. P. Scilingo} } @article {1406, title = {Risk assessment of seafloor waste: acoustical imaging of buried waste}, journal = {JOURNAL OF COMPUTATIONAL ACOUSTICS}, volume = {13}, year = {2005}, pages = {385{\textendash}401}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0218-396X}, doi = {10.1142/S0218396X05002694}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1142/S0218396X05002694}, author = {A. Caiti and M. Palmese and A. Trucco} } @conference {CHLOifac05, title = {Uniform Semiglobal Practical Asymptotic Stability for nonlinear time-varying systems in cascade}, booktitle = {Proc. 16th. IFAC World Congress}, year = {2005}, month = {July}, address = {Praha, Tcheck Republic}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Chaillet and A. Lor} } @conference {BPMLSC-04, title = {Analysis Of Heart Rate And Respiration Variability Signals Obtained Through A Wearable System}, booktitle = {Mediterranean Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering}, year = {2004}, month = {August}, address = {Island of Ischia, Italy}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {R. Paradiso and M. O. Mendez and G. Loriga and E. P. Scilingo and S. Cerutti} } @inbook {DLSCTT04, title = {Artificial kinesthetic systems for telerehabilitation}, booktitle = {Wearable eHealth Systems for Personalised Health Management}, year = {2004}, pages = {209-213}, publisher = {IOS Press}, organization = {IOS Press}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. De Rossi and F. Lorussi and E. P. Scilingo and Carpi, F and A. Tognetti and Tesconi, M} } @conference {DPSB04, title = {A compatibility test for tactile displays designed for fMRI studies.}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the EuroHaptics 2004 (Technische Universitat Munchen, Germany June 5-7, 2004)}, year = {2004}, pages = {456-458}, abstract = {

The purpose of this document is to provide a compatibility test for mechatronic devices to be used within a diagnostic MR environment. In order to design new devices that can produce tactile stimuli of different nature inside the MRI environment, compatibility tests with several materials and mechatronic devices are reported. Results of these experiments are analyzed in order to evaluate artefacts caused by the presence and actuation of the devices.

}, keywords = {Haptics}, author = {V. Hartwig and N. Vanello and R. Gassert and D. Chapuis and M. F. Santarelli and V. Positano and E. Ricciardi and P. Pietrini and L. Landini and A. Bicchi} } @conference {CPTSLDGGBVG-04, title = {Development of a Wearable System Based on Smart Textiles and GPRS Transmission for Remote Multiparametric Monitoring of Cardiac Patients: Preliminary Results of the WEALTHY Project}, booktitle = {THE 5th International Heart Health Conference}, year = {2004}, month = {June}, address = {Milan, Italy}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {S. Coli and R. Paradiso and N. Taccini and E. P. Scilingo and G. Loriga and D. De Rossi and A. Gemignani and B. Ghelarducci and L. Bourdon and A. Ditmar and T. Vavouras and B. Gros and J. Luprano and M. Jaenecke and C. Coucke and G. Delhomme and D. Cianflone} } @article {1408, title = {Evolutionary path planning for autonomous underwater vehicles in a variable ocean}, journal = {IEEE JOURNAL OF OCEANIC ENGINEERING}, volume = {29}, year = {2004}, pages = {418{\textendash}429}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {0364-9059}, author = {A. Alvarez and A. Caiti and R. Onken} } @inbook {BLMS03, title = {On The Problem of Simultaneous Localization, Map Building, and Servoing of Autonomous Vehicles}, booktitle = {Advances in Control of Articulated and Mobile Robots}, series = {STAR - Springer Tracts in Advanced Robotics}, number = {10}, year = {2004}, pages = {223-239}, publisher = {Springer Verlag}, organization = {Springer Verlag}, abstract = {

In this chapter, we consider three of the main problems that arise in the navigation of autonomous vehicles in partially or totally unknown environments, i.e. building a map of the environment, self-localizing, and servoing the robot so as to achieve given goals based on sensorial information. As compared to most part of the existing literature on SLAM, we privilege here a system-theoretic view to the problem, which allows the localization and mapping problems to be cast in a unified framework with the control problem. The chapter is an overview of existing results in this vein, and of some interesting directions for research in the field. All chapters of this volume were revised and published online March 2005. The volume number was corrected from 4010 to 10.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {A. Bicchi and F. Lorussi and P. Murrieri and V. G. Scordio}, editor = {B. Siciliano and A. De Luca and C. Melchiorri and G. Casalino} } @article {MCB04, title = {Reachability and Steering of Rolling Polyhedra: A Case Study in Discrete Nonholonomy}, journal = {IEEE Trans. on Automatic Control}, volume = {49}, number = {5}, year = {2004}, month = {May}, pages = {710-726}, abstract = {

Rolling a ball on a plane is a standard example of nonholonomy reported in many textbooks, and the problem is also well understood for any smooth deformation of the surfaces. For non-smoothly deformed surfaces, however, much less is known. Although it may seem intuitive that nonholonomy is conserved (think e.g. to polyhedral approximations of smooth surfaces), current definitions of {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}nonholonomy{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} are inherently referred to systems described by ordinary differential equations, and are thus inapplicable to such systems. \{\.I}n this paper we study the set of positions and orientations that a polyhedral part can reach by rolling on a plane through sequences of adjacent faces. We provide a description of such reachable set, discuss conditions under which the set is dense, or discrete, or has a compound structure, and provide a method for steering the system to a desired reachable configuration, robustly with respect to model uncertainties. \\Based on ideas and concepts encountered in this case study, and in some other examples we provide, we turn back to the most general aspects of the problem and investigate the possible generalization of the notion of (kinematic) nonholonomy to non-smooth, discrete, and hybrid dynamical systems. To capture the essence of phenomena commonly regarded as {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}nonholonomic{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright}, at least two irreducible concepts are to be defined, of {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}internal{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} and {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}external{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} nonholonomy, which may coexist in the same system. These definitions are instantiated by examples.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {A. Bicchi and Y. Chitour and A. Marigo} } @conference {BBCCPPT04, title = {A Robotic Set-Up with Remote Access for {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}Pick and Place{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright} Operations Under Uncertainty Conditions}, booktitle = {E-learning and Virtual and Remote Laboratories}, series = {Proc. VIRTUAL-LAB 2004}, year = {2004}, pages = {144{\textendash}149}, abstract = {

The work describes on-going work at the University of Pisa on the field of tele-laboratories and distance learning. In particular, the group is working at the evolution of existing tele-laboratory experiments in the field of robotics and control into learning units of a self-consistent didactic project. The pick-and-place system described has been designed to provide the set-up for robot arm motion planning with specific objectives and evaluation tools.

}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Balestrino and A. Bicchi and A. Caiti and T. Cecchini and L. Pallottino and A. Pisani and G. Tonietti}, editor = {P. Borza and L. Gomes and G. Scutaru} } @conference {DLSCTTO-04, title = {An Upper Limb Kinesthetic-Like System For Tele-Rehabilitation}, booktitle = {Mediterranean Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering}, year = {2004}, month = {August}, address = {Island of Ischia, Italy}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. De Rossi and F. Lorussi and E. P. Scilingo and F. Carpi and M. Tesconi and A. Tognetti and P. Orsini} } @article {DCLMPS03, title = {Electroactive Fabrics And Wearable Biomonitoring Devices}, journal = {AUTEX Research Journal}, volume = {3}, number = {4}, year = {2003}, month = {December}, pages = {180-185}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. De Rossi and F. Carpi and F. Lorussi and A. Mazzoldi and R. Paradiso and E. P. Scilingo and A. Tognetti} } @conference {PCB03, title = {Quality of service control in soft real-time applications}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Decision and Control}, year = {2003}, pages = {664-669}, abstract = {

In this paper we present results obtained in the context of Quality of Service (QoS) control for soft real-time applications. The discussion addresses the issue of dynamically adjusting the bandwidth for a set of periodic tasks, when a reservation-based (RB) CPU scheduling policy is used. RB techniques are particularly suitable for this kind of applications since they allow an accurate mathematical modelling of the dynamic evolution of the QoS experienced by tasks. Based on this model, a control policy guaranteeing specified QoS levels for different tasks is illustrated, along with necessary and sufficient conditions for its existence. Moreover, the problem of steering a task QoS back into its nominal level is tackled, in response to deviations due to temporary overload conditions. Simulation results are reported, for the purpose of validating the approach.

}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {L. Palopoli and T. Cucinotta and A. Bicchi} } @conference {TCLMOSTD-03, title = {Wearable Sensory-Motor Orthoses for Tele-Rehabilitation}, booktitle = {25th Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society}, year = {2003}, month = {September}, pages = {3724-3727}, address = {Cancun,Mexico}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {A. Tognetti and F. Carpi and F. Lorussi and A. Mazzoldi and P. Orsini and E. P. Scilingo and M. Tesconi and D. De Rossi} } @book {BCP02, title = {Control Problems in Robotics}, volume = {4}, year = {2002}, publisher = {Springer Verlag}, organization = {Springer Verlag}, address = {Berlin Heidelberg}, keywords = {Robotics}, editor = {A. Bicchi and H. Christensen and D Prattichizzo} } @conference {DCLMST-02, title = {Electroactive Fabrics for Distributed, Conformable and Interactive Systems}, booktitle = {The first IEEE International Conference on Sensors}, year = {2002}, month = {June}, pages = {1608-1613}, address = {Orlando, Florida}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. De Rossi and F. Carpi and F. Lorussi and A. Mazzoldi and E. P. Scilingo and A. Tognetti} } @conference {DCLMST-02, title = {Electroactive Fibers and Fabrics for Distributed, Conformable and Interactive Systems}, booktitle = {Proceedings of the First European Workshop on Structural Health Monitoring}, year = {2002}, month = {July}, address = {Cachan, France}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, author = {D. De Rossi and F. Carpi and F. Lorussi and A. Mazzoldi and E. P. Scilingo and A. Tognetti} } @article {1409, title = {Set-membership acoustic tracking of autonomous underwater vehicles}, journal = {ACTA ACUSTICA UNITED WITH ACUSTICA}, volume = {88}, year = {2002}, pages = {648{\textendash}652}, keywords = {Robotics}, issn = {1610-1928}, author = {A. Caiti and A. Garulli and F. Livide and D Prattichizzo} } @conference {BCQRTB01, title = {Breaking the Lab{\textquoteright}s Walls: Tele-Laboratories at the University of Pisa}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Robotics and Automation}, year = {2001}, pages = {1903-1908}, address = {Seoul, Korea}, keywords = {Telelab}, author = {A. Bicchi and A. Coppelli and F. Quarto and L. Rizzo and F. Turchi and A. Balestrino} } @conference {BLT01-iarp, title = {Compliant robot arm design for intrinsic safety}, booktitle = {Proc. IARP/RAS Workshop on Technical Challenges for Dependable Robots in Human Environments}, year = {2001}, pages = {100-106}, abstract = {In this paper, we describe some initial results of a project aiming at development of a programmable-compliance, inherently safe robot arm for applications in anthropic environmnets. In order to obtain safety in spite of worst-case situations (such as unexpected delays in teleoperation, or even controller failure), we will consider achieving compliance by mechanical rather than by control design. We first describe some of the control problems that the presence of large, possibly unknown mechanical compliance typically introduces, and present a result that shows the possibility to cope with these uncertainties in an adaptive way. In the second part of the paper we describe the initial development of a new prototype arm under construction in our laboratory. The arm is designed to achieve arbitrary position tracking in 3D with controlled effective compliance at the joints.}, keywords = {Physical Human-Robot Interaction (pHRI), Robot Arms}, author = {A. Bicchi and S. Lodi Rizzini and G. Tonietti}, editor = {G. Giralt and P. Corke} } @conference {CLMPS-01, title = {Electroactive polymer based skin and muscles for man machine interfaces}, booktitle = {MRS Fall Meeting}, year = {2001}, month = {December}, address = {Boston, USA}, keywords = {Man-machine Interface}, author = {F. Carpi and F. Lorussi and A. Mazzoldi and G. Pioggia and E. P. Scilingo} } @unpublished {B02, title = {Machine hand design for dexterity, robustness of grasp, and interaction with humans}, year = {2001}, note = {

to appear (?) in Human and Machine Haptics

}, keywords = {Haptics, Robot Hands}, author = {A. Bicchi}, editor = {M. Cutkosky and R. Howe and J. K. Salisbury and M. Srinivasan} } @conference {PPACGLSDGB-01, title = {Sensing Threads and Fabrics for Monitoring Body Kinematic and Vital Signs}, booktitle = {Fibres and Textiles for the Future}, year = {2001}, month = {August}, pages = {55-63}, address = {Tampere, Finland}, keywords = {Smart Textiles, Vital Signs}, author = {M. Pacelli and R. Paradiso and G. Anerdi and S. Ceccarini and M. Ghignoli and F. Lorussi and E. P. Scilingo and D. De Rossi and A. Gemignani and B. Ghelarducci} } @conference {BBCRS00, title = {Hybrid Tracking Control for Spark-Ignition Engines}, booktitle = {Proc. 39th IEEE Conference on Decision and Control}, volume = {4}, year = {2000}, month = {December}, pages = {3126-31}, address = {Sydney, NSW, Australia}, keywords = {Automotive, Autonomous Vehicles, Hybrid and Embedded Control Systems}, author = {A. Balluchi and A. Bicchi and C. Caterini and C. Rossi and A. L. Sangiovanni-Vincentelli} } @conference {BCP00, title = {Localization Of Vehicles By Sensory Information}, booktitle = {Proc. WAC Int. Symp. on Robotics and Applications}, year = {2000}, month = {June}, pages = {68-73}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Localization and Mapping, Nonlinear Control Systems, Sensors}, author = {A. Bicchi and F. Conticelli and D Prattichizzo} } @conference {CCB00, title = {Nonholonomic Kinematics and Dynamics of the Sphericle}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Symp. Intelligent Robots and Systems}, year = {2000}, pages = {805-810}, address = {Takamatsu, Japan}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Nonlinear Control Systems, Spherical Vehicles}, author = {C. Camicia and F. Conticelli and A. Bicchi} } @conference {CBB00, title = {Observability and nonlinear observers for mobile robot localization}, booktitle = {IFAC Int. Symp. on Robot Control, SyRoCo 2000}, year = {2000}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Localization and Mapping, Sensors and Observers}, author = {F. Conticelli and A. Bicchi and A. Balestrino} } @inbook {CB00, title = {Observer Design for Locally Observable Analytic Systems: Convergence, Separation Property, and Redundancy}, booktitle = {Nonlinear Control in the Year 2000}, series = {LNCIS}, volume = {258}, year = {2000}, pages = {315-330}, publisher = {Springer-Verlag}, organization = {Springer-Verlag}, address = {Berlin Heidelberg, Germany}, keywords = {Localization and Mapping, Nonlinear Control Systems}, author = {F. Conticelli and A. Bicchi}, editor = {A. Isidori and F. F. Lamnabhi-Lagarrigue and W. Respondek} } @article {MCPB00, title = {Planning Motions of Polyhedral Parts by Rolling}, journal = {Algorithmica}, volume = {26}, year = {2000}, pages = {560-576}, keywords = {Hybrid and Embedded Control Systems, Nonlinear Control Systems, Quantized Control Systems, Robot Hands}, author = {A. Marigo and M. Ceccarelli and S. Piccinocchi and A. Bicchi} } @article {1410, title = {Seafloor properties determination from acoustic backscattering at normal incidence with a parametric source}, journal = {JOURNAL OF COMPUTATIONAL ACOUSTICS}, volume = {8}, year = {2000}, pages = {365{\textendash}388}, issn = {0218-396X}, author = {A. Caiti} } @conference {CPGB00, title = {Vision-Based Dynamic Estimation and Set-Point Stabilization of Nonholonomic Vehicles}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Robotics and Automation}, year = {2000}, pages = {2771-2776}, address = {San Francisco, CA, USA}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Nonlinear Control Systems, Sensors and Observers, visual servoing}, author = {F. Conticelli and D Prattichizzo and F. Guidi and A. Bicchi} } @conference {BCP99, title = {Optimal Design of Dynamic Multiaxis Force/Torque Sensors}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conference on Decision and Control}, year = {1999}, pages = {2981-2986}, abstract = {The measurement of time-varying forces and torques applied to flexible mechanical structures cannot be pursued by relying on quasi-static approximations. However, the problem can be cast as a problem of dynamic system inversion, provided reliable models of the dynamic relationship among forces, torques and measurement gauges are available. Within this framework it is possible, in particular, to define optimality criteria for gauge placements in order to guide the design of such dynamic force/torque sensing devices. Experimental results show that the approach proposed is indeed capable of reconstructing forces, torques and point of contact applied to a flexible beam with a rigid part}, keywords = {Sensors}, author = {A. Bicchi and A. Caiti and D Prattichizzo} } @article {1411, title = {Parametric sonars for seafloor characterization}, journal = {MEASUREMENT SCIENCE \& TECHNOLOGY}, volume = {10}, year = {1999}, pages = {1105{\textendash}1115}, issn = {0957-0233}, doi = {10.1088/0957-0233/10/12/301}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1088/0957-0233/10/12/301}, author = {A. Caiti and O. Bergem and J. Dybedal} } @conference {BCP97-ICAR, title = {Dynamic force/torque sensors: theory and experiments }, booktitle = {Proc. Int. Conference on Advanced Robotics}, year = {1997}, pages = {727-732}, address = {Monterey, CA, USA}, abstract = {

Although present-day force/torque (F/T) sensors are mostly designed and used as if they were quasi-static devices, if significant compliance and/or stringent requirements on measurements bandwidth are in order, a dynamic analysis of such sensors is necessary. In this paper we consider the optimal (in a worst-case sense) design of F/T sensors, based on distributed-parameter models of its compliance, and algorithms that can be used to obtain F/T measurements in real time with high bandwidth. Theoretical expectations are confirmed by experimental results

}, keywords = {Sensors}, author = {A. Bicchi and A. Caiti and D Prattichizzo} } @conference {PCPB97, title = {Interactive Benchmark for Planning Algorithms on the Web}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Robotics and Automation}, year = {1997}, pages = {399-404}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Navigation and Planning, Telelab}, author = {S. Piccinocchi and M. Ceccarelli and F. Piloni and A. Bicchi} } @conference {MCB97, title = {Manipulation of polyhedral parts by rolling}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Robotics and Automation}, year = {1997}, keywords = {Hybrid and Embedded Control Systems, Nonlinear Control Systems, Quantized Control Systems}, author = {A. Marigo and Y. Chitour and A. Bicchi} } @conference {BCP97, title = {Optimal Design of Dynamic Force/Torque Sensors}, booktitle = {Proceeding Int. Conf. Computer Integrated Systems}, year = {1997}, address = {Belfort, France}, keywords = {Robotics}, author = {A. Bicchi and A. Caiti and D Prattichizzo} } @inbook {CMPB97, title = {Rolling Polyhedra on a Plane: Analysis of the Reachable Set}, booktitle = {Algorithms for Robotic Motion and Manipulation}, year = {1997}, pages = {277-286}, publisher = {A. K. Peters}, organization = {A. K. Peters}, address = {Wellesley, MA, U.S.A.}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, author = {Y. Chitour and A. Marigo and D Prattichizzo and A. Bicchi}, editor = {J.P. Laumond and M. Overmars} } @article {1413, title = {Acoustic estimation of seafloor parameters: A radial basis functions approach}, journal = {THE JOURNAL OF THE ACOUSTICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA}, volume = {100}, year = {1996}, pages = {1473{\textendash}1481}, issn = {0001-4966}, doi = {10.1142/S0218396X96000088}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1142/S0218396X96000088}, author = {A. Caiti and S. M. Jesus} } @conference {BCMP96, title = {Dexterity through Rolling: Towards Manipulation of Unknown Objects}, booktitle = {Proc. Third Int. Symp. on Methods and Models for Automation and Robotics}, year = {1996}, address = {Miedzyzdroje, Poland}, keywords = {Nonlinear Control Systems, Robot Hands}, author = {A. Bicchi and Y. Chitour and A. Marigo and D Prattichizzo} } @article {1414, title = {Estimating geoacoustic bottom properties from towed array data}, journal = {JOURNAL OF COMPUTATIONAL ACOUSTICS}, volume = {4}, year = {1996}, pages = {273{\textendash}290}, issn = {0218-396X}, doi = {10.1142/S0218396X96000088}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1142/S0218396X96000088}, author = {S. M. Jesus and A. Caiti} } @article {1415, title = {Geoacoustic seafloor exploration with a towed array in a shallow water area of the Strait of Sicily}, journal = {IEEE JOURNAL OF OCEANIC ENGINEERING}, volume = {21}, year = {1996}, pages = {355{\textendash}366}, issn = {0364-9059}, doi = {10.1109/48.544046}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/48.544046}, author = {A. Caiti and S. M. Jesus and A. Kristensen} } @article {1412, title = {A multiquadrics-based algorithm for the acceleration of simulated annealing optimization procedures}, journal = {IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON MAGNETICS}, volume = {32}, year = {1996}, pages = {1198{\textendash}1201}, issn = {0018-9464}, doi = {10.1109/20.497458}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/20.497458}, author = {P. Alotto and A. Caiti and G. Molinari and M. Repetto} } @conference {BBBC96, title = {Path Tracking Control for Dubin{\textquoteright}s Cars}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Robotics and Automation}, year = {1996}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Embedded Control, Nonlinear Control Systems}, author = {A. Balluchi and A. Bicchi and A. Balestrino and G. Casalino} } @article {BCS96, title = {Planning Shortest Bounded-Curvature Paths for a Class of Nonholonomic Vehicles among Obstacles}, journal = {Journal of Intelligent and Robotic Systems}, volume = {16}, year = {1996}, pages = {387-405}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Navigation and Planning}, author = {A. Bicchi and G. Casalino and C. Santilli} } @inbook {CMPB96, title = {Reachability of Rolling Parts}, booktitle = {Advances in Robotics: The ERNET Perspective}, year = {1996}, pages = {51-60}, publisher = {World Scientific Publisher Corp.}, organization = {World Scientific Publisher Corp.}, address = {Singapore}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, author = {Y. Chitour and A. Marigo and D Prattichizzo and A. Bicchi}, editor = {C. Bonivento and C. Melchiorri and H. Tolle} } @conference {BBCP96, title = {Reflex Control of Locomotion for a Four-Legged Vehicle with Leg Redundancy}, booktitle = {Proc. IFAC World Congress}, year = {1996}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Legged Vehicles}, author = {A. Balluchi and A. Bicchi and G. Casalino and D Prattichizzo} } @conference {BCDRIS96, title = { A sensor-based minimally invasive surgery tool for detecting tissue elastic properties }, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Robotics and Automation}, year = {1996}, pages = {884-888}, keywords = {Haptics, Tools for Minimally Invasive Surgery}, author = {A. Bicchi and G. Canepa and D. De Rossi and P. Iacconi and E. P. Scilingo} } @article {1418, title = {BEAMFORMING ON SEISMIC INTERFACE WAVES WITH AN ARRAY OF GEOPHONES ON THE SHALLOW SEA-FLOOR}, journal = {IEEE JOURNAL OF OCEANIC ENGINEERING}, volume = {20}, year = {1995}, pages = {300{\textendash}310}, issn = {0364-9059}, doi = {10.1109/48.468245}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/48.468245}, author = {J. A. Tencate and T. G. Muir and A. Caiti and A. Kristensen and J. F. Manning and J. A. Shooter and R. A. Koch and E. Michelozzi} } @article {CABB95, title = {Closed loop steering of unicycle like vehicles via Lyapunov techniques}, journal = {IEEE Robotics and Automation Magazine}, volume = {2}, number = {1}, year = {1995}, month = {March}, pages = {27-35}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Nonlinear Control Systems}, author = {G. Casalino and M. Aicardi and A. Bicchi and A. Balestrino} } @conference {SBCB95, title = {Nonholonomic, Bounded Curvature Path Planning In Cluttered Environments}, booktitle = {IEEE/INRIA Conf. on Emerging Technologies and Factory Automation}, year = {1995}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Navigation and Planning}, author = {C. Santilli and A. Bicchi and G. Casalino and A. Balestrino} } @conference {BCS95, title = {Planning Shortest Bounded-Curvature Paths for a Class of Nonholonomic Vehicles among obstacles}, booktitle = {Proc. IEEE Int. Conf. on Robotics and Automation}, year = {1995}, pages = {1349-1354}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Navigation and Planning}, author = {A. Bicchi and G. Casalino and C. Santilli} } @article {1416, title = {STABILIZATION OF SPECTRAL METHODS FOR THE ANALYSIS OF SINGULAR SYSTEMS USING PIECEWISE-CONSTANT BASIS FUNCTIONS}, journal = {CIRCUITS SYSTEMS AND SIGNAL PROCESSING}, volume = {14}, year = {1995}, pages = {299{\textendash}316}, issn = {0278-081X}, doi = {10.1007/BF01189015}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1007/BF01189015}, author = {A. Caiti and G. Cannata} } @article {1417, title = {TOWARDS THE REALIZATION OF AN ARTIFICIAL TACTILE SYSTEM - FINE-FORM DISCRIMINATION BY A TENSORIAL TACTILE SENSOR ARRAY AND NEURAL INVERSION ALGORITHMS}, journal = {IEEE TRANSACTION ON SYSTEMS MAN AND CYBERNETICS}, volume = {25}, year = {1995}, pages = {933{\textendash}946}, issn = {0018-9472}, doi = {10.1109/21.384256}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/21.384256}, author = {A. Caiti and G. Canepa and D. De Rossi and F. Germagnoli and G. Magenes and T. Parisini} } @conference {CABB94-VSLT, title = {Closed loop control of unicycle-like vehicles via Lyapunov techniques}, booktitle = {Proc. Int. Workshop on Variable Structure and Lyapunov Techniques}, year = {1994}, address = {Benevento}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Nonlinear Control Systems}, author = {G. Casalino and M. Aicardi and A. Bicchi and A. Balestrino} } @conference {ACBB94, title = {Closed loop smooth steering of unicycle-like vehicles}, booktitle = {Proc. Int. Conf. Decision and Control}, year = {1994}, pages = {2455-2460}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Hybrid and Embedded Control Systems, Nonlinear Control Systems}, author = {M. Aicardi and G. Casalino and A. Balestrino and A. Bicchi} } @conference {CABB94-SYROCO, title = {Closed-Loop Steering and Path Following for Unicycle-like Vehicles: a Simple Liapunov Function Based Approach}, booktitle = {Proc. IFAC Int. Symposium on Robot Control}, year = {1994}, publisher = {Elsevier Science, Oxford, UK}, organization = {Elsevier Science, Oxford, UK}, address = {Capri}, keywords = {Autonomous Vehicles, Nonlinear Control Systems}, author = {G. Casalino and M. Aicardi and A. Bicchi and A. Balestrino} } @article {1419, title = {ESTIMATION OF SHEAR-WAVE VELOCITY IN SHALLOW MARINE-SEDIMENTS}, journal = {IEEE JOURNAL OF OCEANIC ENGINEERING}, volume = {19}, year = {1994}, pages = {58{\textendash}72}, issn = {0364-9059}, doi = {10.1109/48.289451}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/48.289451}, author = {A. Caiti and T. Akal and R. D. Stoll} } @article {1421, title = {MAPPING OCEAN SEDIMENTS BY RBF NETWORKS}, journal = {IEEE JOURNAL OF OCEANIC ENGINEERING}, volume = {19}, year = {1994}, pages = {577{\textendash}582}, issn = {0364-9059}, doi = {10.1109/48.338393}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/ 10.1109/48.338393}, author = {A. Caiti and T. Parisini} } @article {BC94, title = {Optimal Design of Multivariate Sensors}, journal = {Measurement Science and Technology (Institute of Physics Journal {\textquoteleft}{\textquoteleft}E{\textquoteright}{\textquoteright})}, volume = {5}, year = {1994}, pages = {319-332}, keywords = {Robot Hands, Sensors}, author = {A. Bicchi and G. Canepa} } @article {1420, title = {SPECTRAL METHODS FOR THE SOLUTION OF LINEAR DESCRIPTOR SYSTEMS USING FOURIER FUNCTIONS}, journal = {CIRCUITS SYSTEMS AND SIGNAL PROCESSING}, volume = {13}, year = {1994}, pages = {225{\textendash}239}, issn = {0278-081X}, doi = {10.1007/BF01188108}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1007/BF01188108}, author = {A. Caiti and G. Cannata} } @article {1423, title = {COMMENTS ON THE PROPERTIES OF THE OPERATIONAL MATRICES OF INTEGRATION AND DIFFERENTIATION FOR FOURIER TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS}, journal = {IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON AUTOMATIC CONTROL}, volume = {38}, year = {1993}, pages = {667{\textendash}671}, issn = {0018-9286}, doi = {10.1109/9.250546}, url = {http://dx.medra.org/10.1109/9.250546}, author = {A. Caiti and G. Cannata} } @inbook {BSB93, title = {Experimental Evaluation of Friction Data with an Articulated Hand and Intrinsic Contact Sensors}, booktitle = {Experimental Robotics-III}, series = {LNCIS 190}, year = {1993}, publisher = {Springer Verlag}, organization = {Springer Verlag}, address = {Berlin Heidelberg, Germany}, keywords = {Haptics, Robotics}, author = {A. Bicchi and J. K. Salisbury and D. L. Brock}, editor = {R. Chatila and G. Hirzinger} } @article {1422, title = {Skin-like tactile sensor arrays for contact stress field extraction}, journal = {MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING. C, BIOMIMETIC MATERIALS, SENSORS AND SYSTEMS}, volume = {1}, year = {1993}, pages = {23{\textendash}36}, issn = {0928-4931}, author = {D. De Rossi and G. Canepa and G. Magenes and F. Germagnoli and A. Caiti and T. Parisini} } @conference {PBC93, title = {Statically Stable Legged Locomotion with Leg Redundancy}, booktitle = {Proc. IASTED Int. Conf. on Robotics and Manufacturing}, year = {1993}, publisher = {IASTED}, organization = {IASTED}, address = {Oxford, UK, september 23-25 1993}, keywords = {Embedded Control, Robotics}, issn = {O-88986-179-X}, author = {D Prattichizzo and A. Bicchi and G. Casalino} } @article {1773, title = {Determination of mechanical parameters related to the kinetics of swelling in an electrically activated contractile gel}, journal = {PROGRESS IN COLLOID \& POLYMER SCIENCE}, volume = {78}, year = {1988}, pages = {4{\textendash}8}, keywords = {Bioengineering}, issn = {0340-255X}, author = {Chiarelli, P and D. 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