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About

Peilin Cheng is a rising force in soft robotics, dedicated to bridging the gap between compliant materials and practical, high-performance machines. His research centers on the design and modeling of novel soft actuators and grippers, with a particular focus on enhancing the force output and control of these flexible systems. Cheng’s major contributions include the development of a high-force soft pneumatic bending actuator for finger-type grippers, addressing a critical limitation of soft robots—their low driving force. He has also pioneered a cylindrical soft vacuum actuator and a soft-rigid gripper that minimizes damage during grasping, demonstrating a keen understanding of real-world application challenges. With over 70 citations across his most-cited works, his impact is evident. Notably, his 2023 design of an inchworm in-pipe robot using multiple cams simplifies control by eliminating the need for precise motor coordination, showcasing his talent for elegant mechanical solutions. Cheng’s work, from amphibious crawling robots to high-payload wheeled designs, consistently pushes the boundaries of what soft robots can achieve, making him a key innovator to watch in the field.