Marco Fontana
Papers
19
Total Citations
323
H-Index
9
About
Marco Fontana is a prominent robotics researcher whose work spans wearable robotics, haptic interfaces, novel actuation systems, and human-machine interaction. Based at the PERCRO laboratory of Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, he has made landmark contributions to the field of human power augmentation, most notably through the development of the Body Extender — a full-body exoskeleton designed to amplify human strength in unstructured environments — which has garnered 91 citations and stands as one of the most ambitious wearable robot systems ever constructed. His 2013 work on a haptic hand exoskeleton for precision grasp simulation (56 citations) further demonstrated his expertise in creating intuitive interfaces for virtual reality and teleoperation. Fontana has also advanced underwater teleoperation through haptic-based navigation paradigms and contributed to stroke rehabilitation robotics. His more recent investigations into electrostatic actuators (43 citations), rolling diaphragm hydrostatic transmissions, and energy-efficient legged robot locomotion reflect a sustained commitment to pushing the boundaries of robotic actuation. Across his career, Fontana's interdisciplinary approach — bridging biomechanics, control theory, and mechanical design — makes his body of work essential reading for researchers in rehabilitation, assistive technology, and advanced robotics.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Body Extender: Whole body exoskeleton for human power augmentation91 citations · 2011
- 2Haptic Hand Exoskeleton for Precision Grasp Simulation56 citations · 2013
- 3
- 4
- 5Rehabilitation Training and Evaluation with the L-EXOS in Chronic Stroke14 citations · 2012
- 6A novel compact and lightweight actuator for wearable robots11 citations · 2010
- 7Diaphragm Ankle Actuation for Efficient Series Elastic Legged Robot Hopping11 citations · 2022
- 8
- 9
- 10