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About

Sait Sovukluk is a robotics researcher pushing the boundaries of dynamic humanoid locomotion, with a particular focus on highly agile behaviors like running. His work centers on the intersection of biomechanics-inspired modeling, whole-body control, and real-time trajectory optimization. Sovukluk’s most impactful contribution is his extension of the classic Spring Loaded Inverted Pendulum (SLIP) model, a template for steady-state running in animals, to include foot dynamics and an active controller. This work, published in 2023 and garnering 21 citations, enables a humanoid to transition from a standstill to high-speed, highly maneuverable running—a significant leap in robotic agility. He has also advanced the practical control of complex robots, notably by formulating a whole-body control (WBC) framework for humanoids with closed kinematic chains, demonstrated on the Kangaroo robot (11 citations). His latest research tackles the real-time optimization of limb-swinging trajectories during a run’s flight phase, a critical challenge for maintaining stability. Through these contributions, Sovukluk is systematically solving the core problems of dynamic, athletic locomotion for humanoid robots.