Yiran Li

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Yiran Li is a researcher whose work lies at the intersection of biomechanics and dynamical systems, with a particular focus on the fundamental principles of human and robotic walking. Li’s major contributions center on using simplified, actuated models to uncover the underlying mechanics of gait. Their most-cited paper, "Energetic walking gaits studied by a simple actuated inverted pendulum model" (2018, 16 citations), demonstrates how even minimal models can reveal the energetic trade-offs that shape natural walking patterns. This work provides a powerful framework for understanding why humans walk the way they do and for designing more efficient walking robots. Li’s earlier study, "Internal features in basin of attraction of the simplest walking model" (2015, 6 citations), delves into the stability of passive dynamic walkers, mapping the complex boundaries that separate stable, periodic gaits from falls. By exploring these basins of attraction, Li has helped clarify how small perturbations can lead to dramatically different outcomes—a key insight for both prosthetic design and legged robotics. Though their citation counts are modest, Li’s work is foundational, offering elegant mathematical tools that continue to inspire researchers seeking to bridge the gap between simple theory and complex, real-world locomotion.