Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Tobias Keplinger is a leading researcher at the intersection of soft robotics and sustainable materials science. His work focuses on developing biodegradable, bio-derived composites for soft actuating systems, addressing a critical gap in the field: the reliance on non-recyclable, petroleum-based materials. Keplinger’s major contributions include pioneering the use of wood-gelatin composites to create flexible, compliant actuators that degrade naturally at end-of-life, as demonstrated in his 2024 paper on biodegradable wood-gelatin systems (6 citations). This work offers a path toward environmentally responsible soft robotics without sacrificing performance. He also contributed to the highly influential 2022 “Roadmap on Soft Robotics” (105 citations), a comprehensive overview that charts the future of multifunctional, adaptive, and growth-capable soft robotic systems. This roadmap has become a foundational reference for researchers exploring the field’s potential. Keplinger’s research is notable for bridging materials science and robotics, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with renewable resources. His work is essential reading for students and researchers interested in sustainable engineering, smart materials, and the next generation of eco-friendly robotic systems.