Roland Wiegand

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Roland Wiegand is a leading figure in compliant robotics, specializing in the design and control of flexible fluidic actuators and inflatable structures. His work addresses a critical challenge in modern automation: creating robots that are inherently safe and adaptable for human-robot interaction. Wiegand’s most-cited paper, "Compliant Robotics and Automation with Flexible Fluidic Actuators and Inflatable Structures" (2012, 47 citations), lays foundational principles for using pneumatics and hydraulics to achieve soft, lightweight, and highly deformable robotic systems. This research has direct applications in medical devices, assistive technologies, and industrial grippers, where traditional rigid robots pose risks. By demonstrating how inflatable structures can replace conventional joints and motors, Wiegand has advanced the field of soft robotics, enabling machines that can safely squeeze into tight spaces or gently handle delicate objects. His contributions are particularly noted for bridging fluid power systems with bio-inspired design, offering a practical pathway toward more resilient and energy-efficient automation. Wiegand’s work continues to inspire innovations in compliant mechanisms, making him a key voice in the evolution of safe, flexible robotic systems.