The Robotics & MultiBody Mechanics Research Group central goal is to
conduct fundamental and applied research in
the broad field of robotics and multibody mechanics. The groups’ special emphasis is the development of
complex mechatronic systems such as lightweight actuation systems with adaptable compliance. These compliant actuators are implemented in different robots like the bipeds Lucy and Veronica to study energy efficient locomotion, in the robotic manipulator Softarm to study safe HRI and in the step rehabilitation robot Altacro and ankle foot orthosis IPPAM and APM foot for compatablity with a human wearer. Coginitive HRI is studied with the intelligent robot Probo. In the field of multibody mechanics the group developed a new algorithm
for real time simulation of complex mechanical systems.
Enjoy the visit, and feel free to contact us if you need further information.
Address:
Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Faculty of Applied Sciences
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Building Z - Room ZW109
Pleinlaan , 2
B-1050 Brussels
Belgium
We are pleased to anounce that the Robotics & Multibody Mechanics Research Group participates in the European 7th framework STREP-project
titled Variable Impedance Actuation Systems Embodying Advanced Interaction Behaviours (VIACTORS), in cooperation with
DLR (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt), University of Pisa,
University of Twente, Imperial College London and the IIT (Italian Institute of Technology).
VIACTORS addresses the development and use of safe, energy-efficient and highly dynamic variable impedance
actuation (VIA) systems, which will permit the embodiment of natural characteristics found in biological systems, into
the structures of a new generation of mechatronic systems.
The paper titled "Energy-efficient humanoid walking with ankle actuation: Learning from biomechanics"
by Rino Versluys, Bram Vanderborght,
Ronald Van Ham, Pieter Beyl,
Pierre Cherelle and Dirk Lefeber has received the Best Paper Award in the category of
"Walking Robots" at the 11th International Conference on Climbing and Walking Robots and the Support Technologies for
Mobile Machines (CLAWAR 2008).
Robotboek "Robots Binnenstebuiten"
Bram Vanderborght is author of the science popularizing book "Robots Binnenstebuiten" for children from 10 years. The book is written in Dutch and will launched in September 2008. More info
CLAWAR 2006 -- 9th International Conference on Climbing and Walking Robots and the Support Technologies for Mobile Machines, 12–14 September 2006 Brussels, Belgium.
CLAWAR 2006 was co-organised by Prof. Dirk Lefeber, head of the Robotics and MultiBody Mechanics Research Group.
Visit of His Majesty King Albert II
On March 7th 2006, His Majesty King Albert II of Belgium visited the Robotics and Multibody Mechanics lab.
