Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Fabio Bonomo is a leading figure in robotics, whose work spans variable stiffness actuation, habitat monitoring, and innovative manipulation. He is best known for his groundbreaking contributions to the VSA-CubeBot, a modular variable stiffness platform for multi-degree-of-freedom robots, which has garnered 147 citations for its low-cost, accessible design. Bonomo’s research also extends to environmental robotics, where he proposed the "Natural Intelligence" framework for terrestrial habitat monitoring using legged robots—a forward-thinking approach that has already earned 37 citations. His innovative 3D casting manipulator, which enables small robots to reach objects in three-dimensional space via ballistic flight, further showcases his creativity in solving complex manipulation challenges. Bonomo’s work on the DAVID lunar vehicle for the ESA Lunar Robotics Challenge highlights his ability to tackle extreme terrain and sample acquisition, while his involvement in the SoftPro project and the Pisa/IIT SoftHand demonstrates a commitment to open-source technologies for prosthetics and rehabilitation. With a career marked by practical, low-cost solutions and interdisciplinary impact, Bonomo continues to inspire advances in adaptive, field-ready robotics.