Zensheu Chang
California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Papers
9
Total Citations
194
H-Index
6
About
Zensheu Chang is a pioneering roboticist and mechanical engineer whose work has fundamentally advanced planetary exploration and extreme-terrain robotics. His research centers on two key areas: the development of novel drilling and sampling mechanisms for low-gravity environments, and the creation of climbing robots capable of navigating steep, unstructured terrain. Chang’s most significant contribution is the invention and refinement of the Ultrasonic/Sonic Driller/Corer (USDC), a revolutionary tool that uses high-frequency vibrations to penetrate rock without the need for large axial forces or holding torques—a critical requirement for lightweight rovers on Mars, Europa, and asteroids. This work, detailed in highly cited papers (e.g., 42 and 33 citations), has enabled in-situ astrobiology sampling and subsurface sensor deployment. Complementing this, Chang led the development of the Lemur IIb robot (48 citations), a four-limbed system that demonstrates free climbing on steep terrain by intelligently controlling contact forces to prevent hold failure. His research bridges the gap between robotic mobility and sample acquisition, directly supporting NASA’s search for life and understanding of planetary formation.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Lemur IIb: a robotic system for steep terrain access48 citations · 2006
- 2Ultrasonic/sonic driller/corer (USDC) as a sampler for planetary exploration42 citations · 2002
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- 5Lemur IIb: a Robotic System for Steep Terrain Access16 citations · 2005
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