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About

Inrak Choi is a pioneering researcher in soft robotics and wearable technologies, with a focus on creating innovative actuators and robotic systems that interact intimately with the human body. His major contributions span the development of soft, controllable brakes using layer jamming—a technique that allows for high force density and variable impedance, enabling robots to safely modulate dynamics. Choi also introduced Rovables, miniature robots that traverse unmodified clothing, and SkinBot, a skin-surface robot for health monitoring, both demonstrating his vision for on-body robotics. His work on soft electromagnetic artificial muscles (SEAMs) and selectively stiffening garments further advances wearable assistive devices. With over 300 citations across his most-cited papers, Choi’s research has significantly impacted the fields of soft robotics, human-robot interaction, and wearable technology. Notably, his 2017 paper on layer jamming brakes has garnered 90 citations, underscoring its influence. Choi’s achievements include pioneering epidermal robots and all-soft variable impedance actuators, positioning him as a leader in creating safe, adaptive, and body-integrated robotic systems.