Papers
34
Total Citations
461
H-Index
10
About
Yixiang Liu is a robotics researcher whose work spans tensegrity structures, bio-inspired robotics, and intelligent control systems. He is perhaps best known for pioneering the application of tensegrity principles to practical robotic systems — a framework where continuous tension networks and discrete rigid elements combine to produce structures that are simultaneously lightweight, flexible, and mechanically resilient. His 2021 review on tensegrity-based robots, cited 158 times, established him as a leading voice in this emerging field. Building on this foundation, Liu has developed a family of innovative in-pipe robots — including the inchworm-like tensegrity robot and TICBot — capable of navigating pipes of varying diameters, addressing a longstanding limitation in industrial inspection robotics. His bio-inspired approach extends to soft grippers modeled on the tensegrity architecture of the human musculoskeletal system. Earlier in his career, Liu contributed to humanitarian robotics through the design of multi-linked rescue robots for post-earthquake search operations, and to biomechanics-driven locomotion through pneumatic artificial muscle-actuated biped robots capable of human-like gait. More recently, his work on vibration control in robotic grinding reflects a broadening into precision manufacturing. Across these diverse threads, Liu's research consistently bridges structural elegance with real-world engineering utility.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1A review on tensegrity structures-based robots158 citations · 2021
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- 3TICBot: Development of a Tensegrity-Based In-Pipe Crawling Robot25 citations · 2022
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- 6Two multi-linked rescue robots: design, construction and field tests20 citations · 2016
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- 9Design of a biped robot actuated by pneumatic artificial muscles16 citations · 2015
- 10Human-Like Walking with Heel Off and Toe Support for Biped Robot11 citations · 2017