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About

Leonardo Pagnotta is a leading researcher in the field of rehabilitation robotics, specializing in the transition from conventional actuation systems to bioinspired artificial muscles for upper-limb assistive devices. His work focuses on addressing motor impairments caused by stroke, spinal cord injuries, and cerebral palsy through the development of lightweight, wearable exoskeletons. Pagnotta’s major contributions include pioneering the use of twisted and coiled artificial muscles—a class of soft actuators that mimic natural muscle movement—to create more efficient, human-like motion in rehabilitation tools. His 2021 paper, "The evolution of mechanical actuation," with 66 citations, provides a foundational framework for understanding this technological shift. In 2023, he introduced a "Lightweight Bioinspired Exoskeleton for Wrist Rehabilitation," demonstrating a practical application that enhances portability and home-based therapy. His 2024 critical review further solidifies his impact by systematically analyzing the landscape of actuator technologies. With over 90 combined citations, Pagnotta’s work is instrumental in advancing accessible, high-performance rehabilitation devices, bridging the gap between rigid robotics and compliant, muscle-like actuation for improved patient outcomes.