Papers
12
Total Citations
231
H-Index
10
About
Jens Reinecke is a leading roboticist whose work sits at the intersection of soft robotics, humanoid design, and dexterous manipulation. His research focuses on creating mechanically robust, human-like robotic systems that can safely interact with unknown environments. Reinecke’s major contributions include pioneering the development of tendon-driven continuum mechanisms and variable stiffness actuators, which enable robots to combine impact resilience with dynamic performance. He is perhaps best known for his work on the DLR Hand Arm System and the Awiwi hand, where he addressed critical challenges in tendon routing, friction reduction, and impedance control to achieve human-level dexterity and robustness. His highly cited papers—including "Online in-hand object localization" (43 citations) and "A structurally flexible humanoid spine" (39 citations)—have shaped modern approaches to elastic actuation and compliant joints. Reinecke’s open-source tendon-driven continuum platform has further accelerated research in soft robotics, while his designs for anthropomorphic torsos and running robots demonstrate a rare ability to translate biological principles into practical, high-performance hardware. His work is essential reading for anyone interested in building the next generation of safe, agile, and capable humanoid robots.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Online in-hand object localization43 citations · 2013
- 2
- 3
- 4The DLR C-runner: Concept, design and experiments24 citations · 2016
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8
- 9
- 10Impedance control of a non-linearly coupled tendon driven thumb10 citations · 2011