Charles Pfeiffer
Papers
8
Total Citations
188
H-Index
7
About
Charles Pfeiffer is a robotics and mechatronics researcher whose work spans two transformative areas: smart material actuators for prosthetics and electrorheological fluid (ERF)-based haptic interfaces. Based at Rutgers University, Pfeiffer has made significant contributions to the design of advanced robotic systems that bridge human anatomy and machine capability. His most influential work, garnering 71 citations, introduced shape memory alloy (SMA) artificial muscles as actuators for lightweight, dexterous prosthetic limbs that closely mimic human anatomy while maintaining impressive load-bearing capacity. Complementing this, his earlier SMA wire bundle actuator design demonstrated a remarkable ability to lift up to 100 pounds using 48 parallel SMA wires, showcasing the practical power of this technology. Equally notable is Pfeiffer's pioneering research into ERF-based haptic interfaces. Through the MEMICA project, developed in collaboration with NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, he helped create force feedback systems enabling human operators to intuitively "feel" forces at remote or virtual sites — with direct applications in teleoperated surgery, space robotics, and immersive simulation. These contributions, collectively accumulating nearly 190 citations, reflect a researcher consistently pushing the boundaries of human-machine interaction and assistive technology.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Shape memory alloy actuated robot prostheses: initial experiments71 citations · 2003
- 2
- 3Controlled compliance haptic interface using electrorheological fluids20 citations · 2000
- 4Design and Modeling of an Electro-Rheological Fluid Based Haptic Interface19 citations · 2000
- 5DESIGN AND DYNAMICS OF A SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY WIRE BUNDLE ACTUATOR13 citations · 1999
- 6
- 7Shape Memory Alloy Actuated Robot Protheses: Initial Prototypes7 citations · 1999
- 8