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About

Wendell Hom is a pioneering roboticist whose work sits at the intersection of assistive technology, human-robot interaction, and mobile manipulation. His most recognized contribution is the development of the "Athletic Mobile Manipulator System for Robotic Wheelchair Tennis," a groundbreaking platform that enables individuals with mobility impairments to play competitive wheelchair tennis using a teleoperated robotic arm mounted on a powered wheelchair. This work, published in 2023 and already garnering 16 citations, demonstrates how advanced robotics can restore not just function, but the joy of athletic competition. Hom’s research addresses the fundamental challenge of designing dexterous, safe, and responsive manipulators that can operate in dynamic, unstructured environments—such as a tennis court—while maintaining user control and comfort. By bridging the gap between rehabilitation robotics and high-performance sport, his contributions have opened new avenues for inclusive recreation and physical activity. His work stands as a testament to the power of robotics to amplify human potential, earning recognition from both engineering and disability communities for its technical innovation and profound social impact.