Zhenwei Niu
Papers
11
Total Citations
138
H-Index
7
About
Zhenwei Niu is a leading researcher in safe physical human-robot interaction (pHRI), with a primary focus on developing novel actuation and perception systems that make robots safer, more compliant, and more intelligent. His core research areas include variable stiffness actuators (VSAs), series elastic actuators, neuromorphic vision, and robotic grasping. Niu’s most significant contributions lie in the design and control of discrete variable stiffness actuators that enable instant stiffness switching, a critical feature for ensuring safety during unexpected collisions in human-robot collaboration. His work on the "Design and Control of a Discrete Variable Stiffness Actuator With Instant Stiffness Switch" (2021, 29 citations) and the "irisVSA" (2023, 11 citations) has set new benchmarks for rapid, reliable stiffness modulation. He has also pioneered neuromorphic vision-based tactile sensing for robotic sorting (2020, 26 citations), achieving low-latency, low-power contact classification. Beyond industrial robotics, Niu applies his expertise to assistive technology, notably developing a supernumerary robotic limb for hemiplegic patients (2022, 11 citations). His recent work extends to underwater object detection and aerial transport in GNSS-denied environments, demonstrating remarkable versatility. With over 130 citations and a string of high-impact publications, Niu is shaping the future of safe, adaptive, and human-centered robotics.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
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- 10An Aerial Transport System in Marine GNSS‐Denied Environment4 citations · 2025