Matthew A. Robertson

About

Matthew A. Robertson is a pioneering researcher in soft robotics, with particular expertise in pneumatic actuation systems, variable stiffness mechanisms, and wearable robotic devices. His most influential contribution, the vacuum-powered soft pneumatic actuator (V-SPA), introduced in his landmark 2017 paper (341 citations), revolutionized the field by enabling complex, multi-degree-of-freedom robotic systems powered by a single shared vacuum supply — a paradigm shift from conventional positive-pressure approaches. Building on this foundation, Robertson advanced soft actuator technology through fascicle-based designs for enhanced force output (156 citations) and innovative origami-inspired modular robotic platforms that achieve reconfigurability in compact form factors (98 citations). His work on granular jamming for variable stiffness joints (107 citations) demonstrates his breadth across soft robotics enabling technologies. Robertson has also translated these innovations toward meaningful human-centered applications, including spinal cord assistance devices and personalized wearable systems, reflecting a consistent commitment to biomedical rehabilitation and human-robot interaction. With over 770 citations across his key works and contributions spanning actuation, sensing, control, and wearable design, Robertson stands as a formative figure shaping the trajectory of modern soft robotics research.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   New soft robots really suck: Vacuum-powered systems empower diverse capabilities

   341 citations · 2017
2. 2
   Soft Pneumatic Actuator Fascicles for High Force and Reliability

   156 citations · 2016
3. 3
   JammJoint: A Variable Stiffness Device Based on Granular Jamming for Wearable Joint Support

   107 citations · 2017
4. 4
   Soft pneumatic actuator-driven origami-inspired modular robotic “pneumagami”

   98 citations · 2020
5. 5
   Design and Computational Modeling of a Modular, Compliant Robotic Assembly for Human Lumbar Unit and Spinal Cord Assistance

   35 citations · 2017
6. 6
   Low-inertia vacuum-powered soft pneumatic actuator coil characterization and design methodology

   14 citations · 2018
7. 7
   Bi-modal control of vacuum-powered soft pneumatic actuators with embedded liquid metal-based strain sensitive skin

   8 citations · 2019
8. 8
   Practical control methods for vacuum driven soft actuator modules

   8 citations · 2017
9. 9
   Discharge Readiness after Robotic and Laparoscopic Hysterectomy

   7 citations · 2018
10. 10
    Soft robotics for personalized and sustainable wearables

    5 citations · 2025

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links