Helmut F. Schlaak
Merck KGaA, Darmstadt (Germany), Technische Universität Darmstadt
Papers
10
Total Citations
65
H-Index
6
About
Helmut F. Schlaak is a leading figure in the development of soft robotics and surgical mechatronics, with a particular focus on dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs) and parallel kinematic structures for medical applications. His work on multilayer dielectric elastomer tubular transducers has advanced soft robotic actuation, enabling low-voltage, high-deformation systems for compliant robotics. In the realm of minimally invasive surgery, Schlaak has pioneered single-port robotic systems that integrate parallel kinematic manipulators with haptic feedback, addressing critical ergonomic and force-sensing challenges. His teleoperated platform for transanal single-port surgery, featuring a slave robot with two instrument arms and a master interface with four degrees of freedom, exemplifies his contributions to improving surgical precision and surgeon comfort. With over 65 citations across his most-cited works, Schlaak’s research has had a tangible impact on both soft robotics and surgical robotics, notably through innovations in 3-D force measurement, haptic feedback, and switchable adhesion for wafer-handling. His work on the BOrEScOPE exoskeleton further underscores his commitment to enhancing surgeon support during orthopedic procedures. Schlaak’s interdisciplinary approach bridges fundamental actuator science with practical surgical tools, making him a key contributor to the next generation of intelligent, human-centered robotic systems.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1
- 2A new single-port robotic system based on a parallel kinematic structure10 citations · 2015
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- 6User-interface for teleoperation with mixed-signal haptic feedback6 citations · 2017
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