Nikko Van Crey

University of Michigan–Ann Arbor, Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Nikko Van Crey is a roboticist specializing in novel grasping and capture mechanisms for unstructured environments, with a particular focus on space debris remediation and under-actuated manipulation. His most cited work introduces a highly under-actuated gripper designed to robustly capture large objects of unknown shape and orientation—a persistent challenge in robotics. By leveraging passive compliance and a reduced number of actuators, Van Crey’s design maintains grip force across multiple links, overcoming a key limitation of prior under-actuated systems. This work has garnered 3 citations and demonstrates his ability to solve real-world grasping problems with elegant mechanical simplicity. Van Crey’s second major contribution is the REACCH (Reactive Electro-Adhesive Capture Cloth) mechanism, developed in collaboration with USC’s Space Engineering Research Center and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. This “octopus tentacle” end effector combines formable electro-adhesion and gecko-inspired adhesion to safely grapple both cooperative and non-cooperative space debris—a critical capability for active debris removal. With 3 citations, this work highlights his cross-disciplinary approach, merging soft robotics, adhesion science, and space systems engineering. Van Crey’s research stands out for its practical impact, addressing urgent challenges in robotic grasping and orbital sustainability.