Bernard Hartigan

About

Bernard Hartigan is a leading researcher in the field of soft wearable robotics, with a primary focus on developing assistive lower-limb exoskeletons for mobility enhancement and rehabilitation. His work centers on user-centered design and pneumatic quasi-passive actuation, aiming to create comfortable, intuitive devices that can be integrated into daily life. Hartigan’s major contributions include pioneering the XoSoft EU project, a soft exoskeleton designed to improve walking autonomy and reduce fall risk for elderly and mobility-impaired users. His most-cited paper, "Pneumatic Quasi-Passive Actuation for Soft Assistive Lower Limbs Exoskeleton" (2020), has garnered 63 citations, highlighting its impact on advancing lightweight, energy-efficient actuation systems. Additionally, his 2018 publication on applying a user-centered design approach to XoSoft (20 citations) underscores his commitment to ensuring that technological innovations meet real-world user needs. Hartigan’s work bridges engineering and human factors, making him a key figure in the push toward practical, accepted soft exoskeletons for everyday use.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   Pneumatic Quasi-Passive Actuation for Soft Assistive Lower Limbs Exoskeleton

   63 citations · 2020
2. 2
   Application of a User-Centered Design Approach to the Development of XoSoft – A Lower Body Soft Exoskeleton

   20 citations · 2018

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links