Erlend Framstad

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Erlend Framstad is a researcher whose work lies at the intersection of robotics, control theory, and mechanical systems, with a particular focus on the nuanced dynamics of robots equipped with braking actuators. His key research area explores how to effectively control robotic systems when the primary means of actuation is through controllable brakes, a challenge that diverges significantly from traditional motor-driven control. Framstad’s major contribution, detailed in his most-cited paper "Control for Robots With Braking Actuators in a Uniform Force Field" (2015, 3 citations), addresses the fundamental problem of guiding a robot’s motion within a constant force field—such as gravity—using only braking forces. By modeling the robot as an object on an inclined plane, he developed a control strategy that leverages brakes to achieve desired trajectories, offering a novel approach for energy-efficient or safety-critical applications where motors may be impractical. While his citation count is modest, this work lays important groundwork for specialized robotic systems, such as those used in passive locomotion or fail-safe mechanisms. Framstad’s research is particularly notable for its theoretical rigor and practical relevance, providing a foundation for future studies in underactuated robotics and constrained control environments.