Francesco Amato

About

Francesco Amato is a versatile researcher whose work spans two interconnected domains: nonlinear control theory and biomedical/rehabilitation robotics. His foundational contributions to the stability analysis of nonlinear quadratic systems have had lasting influence in control engineering, with seminal papers on finite-time stability, regions of attraction, and polyhedral Lyapunov functions accumulating nearly 300 citations combined. His 2009 work on sufficient conditions for finite-time stability and stabilization (124 citations) is particularly notable, addressing a broad class of electrical, robotic, and biological processes through rigorous mathematical frameworks. Equally significant is Amato's applied work in surgical and rehabilitation robotics. His 2004 study on robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery, the most cited of his career with 309 citations, helped shape early clinical understanding of the advantages and limitations of minimally invasive robotic procedures. More recently, his research has focused on biomechatronic exoskeletons, pneumatic artificial muscle actuators, and controllable-compliance joints—advancing "assist-as-needed" rehabilitation technologies. His ability to bridge rigorous control theory with practical biorobotic design makes him a distinctive and impactful figure across both engineering and medical communities.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   Advantages and limits of robot-assisted laparoscopic surgery: preliminary experience

   309 citations · 2004
2. 2
   Sufficient Conditions for Finite-Time Stability and Stabilization of Nonlinear Quadratic Systems

   124 citations · 2009
3. 3
   On the region of attraction of nonlinear quadratic systems

   105 citations · 2007
4. 4
   Stability analysis of nonlinear quadratic systems via polyhedral Lyapunov functions

   51 citations · 2011
5. 5
   Model-based tracking control design, implementation of embedded digital controller and testing of a biomechatronic device for robotic rehabilitation

   51 citations · 2018
6. 6
   On the Region of Asymptotic Stability of Nonlinear Quadratic Systems

   17 citations · 2006
7. 7
   Design, Computational Modelling and Experimental Characterization of Bistable Hybrid Soft Actuators for a Controllable-Compliance Joint of an Exoskeleton Rehabilitation Robot

   17 citations · 2022
8. 8
   Guaranteed cost control for uncertain nonlinear quadratic systems

   14 citations · 2014
9. 9
   Identification and modelling of the friction-induced hysteresis in pneumatic actuators for biomimetic robots

   14 citations · 2014
10. 10
    Robust and optimal tracking control for manipulator arm driven by pneumatic muscle actuators

    11 citations · 2013

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links