Andrea Prato

Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Andrea Prato is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of metrology, soft robotics, and sensor technology, with a focus on creating the next generation of “Phygital Sensors”—devices that seamlessly bridge the physical and digital worlds. Their major contributions lie in developing lightweight, durable, and cost-effective sensorization methods for soft robotic joints, enabling accurate and long-lasting bending measurements critical for precise control in assistive and rehabilitative devices. Notably, Prato’s work on sensorizing flexible joints has been applied to a supernumerary sixth finger, an innovative assistive device designed to restore grasping capabilities in individuals with paretic hands, enhanced by proprioceptive feedback. This feasibility study, along with their broader research on soft robot joint monitoring, has garnered early citations (over 5 for their foundational 2023 metrology paper and 2 each for their 2025 studies), reflecting growing interest in their practical, application-driven approach. Prato’s research promises to revolutionize how we integrate sensing into flexible, human-centric technologies, making them a key figure in advancing durable, intelligent soft systems for healthcare and beyond.