Andrew J. Pullan

Auckland University of Technology, University of Auckland

Papers

Total Citations

192

H-Index

About

Andrew J. Pullan is a leading researcher in neuromuscular biomechanics and biologically inspired robotics, with a focus on understanding and replicating complex human motor functions. His work bridges engineering and physiology to develop assistive technologies and robotic systems that mimic natural movement. Pullan’s major contributions include pioneering an EMG-driven model for the human elbow joint, which enables more intuitive control of prosthetic and exoskeletal devices by directly interpreting muscle signals—a foundational step in neuromuscular interfacing. This work, cited 98 times, has influenced the design of assistive robots for rehabilitation and mobility. He has also authored comprehensive reviews of the human masticatory system (65 citations) and swallowing process (29 citations), providing critical frameworks for creating biologically mimicking robots that replicate chewing and swallowing. These reviews have guided the development of medical simulators and therapeutic tools for patients with orofacial impairments. Pullan’s research stands out for its interdisciplinary approach, combining detailed anatomical analysis with robotic engineering to advance both assistive technology and our understanding of human motor control.