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About

Xiaoyu Hu is a leading researcher in the field of soft robotics and intelligent materials, with a primary focus on developing advanced soft actuators, artificial muscles, and flexible sensors. Their work has garnered over 660 citations, reflecting significant impact in the field. Hu's major contributions include pioneering progress in tensile, torsional, and multifunctional soft actuators, as highlighted in their highly cited 2021 review (154 citations), which has become a key reference for researchers designing complex motions like bending, rolling, and jumping. They also developed innovative photothermal bimorph actuators with an in-built cooler (142 citations), enabling novel applications such as light mills and frequency switches for soft robots. Hu's recent work on hierarchically buckled Ti3C2Tx MXene/carbon nanotubes strain sensors (82 citations) demonstrates their expertise in creating highly linear, sensitive, and stretchable sensors for soft robotics and epidermal monitoring. Notably, their robust jumping actuator inspired by shrimp-shell architecture (74 citations) showcases bio-inspired design for compact, durable robots. Hu's research on twisted-fiber artificial muscles (113 citations) and microfluidic manipulation using spiral hollow-fibre actuators further underscores their versatility in creating responsive, multifunctional systems. This body of work positions Hu as a key innovator in next-generation soft robotic systems.