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About

Thomas De Clercq is a leading researcher in soft robotics and tactile sensing, whose work is redefining how robots perceive and interact with their environment. His primary research areas include soft barometric tactile sensors, force estimation, and autonomous robotic manipulation. De Clercq’s major contribution is the development of a novel soft barometric tactile sensor that can simultaneously localize contact points and estimate normal forces, a breakthrough validated for slip detection in robotic grippers. This work, published in 2022 and cited 35 times, is foundational for industrial applications requiring precise force control. He further advanced the field by fusing this tactile sensor with a quasi-direct drive gripper, enabling enhanced force estimation and autonomous force tuning—a synergy that promises safer and more efficient robotic operations. His 2024 studies on iterative pressure reconstruction for soft sensors demonstrate his commitment to improving sensor accuracy and adaptability. De Clercq’s innovations are pivotal for industries ranging from manufacturing to healthcare, where robots must handle delicate objects with human-like dexterity. His research not only pushes the boundaries of tactile sensing but also paves the way for more intuitive and reliable human-robot collaboration.