Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Silvia Appendino’s research lies at the intersection of robotics, biomechanics, and rehabilitation, with a focus on understanding and augmenting human movement. Her major contributions center on the kinematics, statics, and dynamics of the human hand—work that has been cited over 120 times collectively—providing foundational insights for designing hand exoskeletons. She pioneered constraint studies for hand exoskeletons (67 citations) and developed an under-actuated, surface EMG-driven hand exoskeleton for post-stroke rehabilitation (26 citations), demonstrating how robotic devices can assist or restore hand function. Appendino also explored practical, low-cost tactile sensor integration for these exoskeletons, addressing real-world usability challenges. Beyond the hand, she contributed to mobile robotics with the innovative Epi.q-1 hybrid robot (39 citations), capable of navigating complex terrains, and to neurorehabilitation with an MR-compatible device for active and passive foot movements. Her work on control curves for lower-limb exoskeletons further extends her impact to walking assistance. Appendino’s research uniquely bridges rigorous biomechanical modeling with applied robotic design, offering scalable solutions for assistive technology. Her interdisciplinary approach continues to influence both rehabilitation engineering and human-robot interaction.