Papers
9
Total Citations
138
H-Index
6
About
Brennand Pierce is a robotics researcher whose work spans humanoid robot design, human-robot interaction, and mechatronic systems engineering. His research is perhaps best characterized by an impressive breadth — from expressive robotic faces to full-bodied mobile manipulators — unified by a consistent drive to make robots more capable of meaningful interaction with humans. Pierce's most recognized contribution is the development of the Mask-bot series, a life-size robotic head that uses retro-projected facial animation to enable dynamic, customizable human-robot communication. This work, which accumulated over 40 citations, spawned follow-up investigations into face replacement algorithms, gender perception, and interchangeable facial identities. His 2017 paper introducing TOMM — a tactile omnidirectional mobile manipulator featuring dual arms and switchable end-effectors — has become his most-cited work with 47 citations, reflecting growing interest in dexterous, touch-sensitive robotics. Beyond these flagship platforms, Pierce has contributed open-hardware tools like Gertie, an emotionally expressive desk lamp robot, and full humanoid systems including Herbert, an anthropometrically correct 33-DOF robot. His work on modular electronics further demonstrates a commitment to making humanoid robotics more accessible and reproducible. Collectively, Pierce's contributions offer a rich foundation for researchers exploring robot embodiment, expressiveness, and physical human-robot collaboration.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1TOMM: Tactile omnidirectional mobile manipulator47 citations · 2017
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