Kin Huat Low

About

Kin Huat Low is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of biomimetic robotics, rehabilitation engineering, and autonomous systems. Best known for his groundbreaking work in biologically inspired locomotion, Low has made seminal contributions to the design and control of underwater robotic systems that mimic the elegant movement of aquatic creatures. His 2006 paper on undulating robotic fish fins, garnering 138 citations, established foundational principles for bio-inspired propulsion, while subsequent work on pectoral fins driven by shape memory alloys (SMAs) and amphibious robotic turtles further cemented his reputation as a leader in aquatic robotics. Beyond underwater systems, Low has demonstrated remarkable breadth by extending his expertise into soft robotics, developing an SMA-actuated starfish-inspired robot (128 citations), and variable stiffness grippers for adaptive manipulation. His contributions to human rehabilitation are equally significant, with notable work on gait prediction neural networks and the NaTUre-Gaits over-ground rehabilitation trainer, addressing critical shortages in therapist-assisted recovery for stroke and spinal cord injury patients. Early work on quadruped force distribution algorithms further illustrates his long-standing commitment to robust, real-world robotic locomotion. Across more than two decades, Low's research has consistently bridged biological inspiration with practical engineering innovation.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   Biomimetic Motion Planning of an Undulating Robotic Fish Fin

   138 citations · 2006
2. 2
   Gait study and pattern generation of a starfish-like soft robot with flexible rays actuated by SMAs

   128 citations · 2014
3. 3
   An individual-specific gait pattern prediction model based on generalized regression neural networks

   76 citations · 2013
4. 4
   Hardware Development and Locomotion Control Strategy for an Over-Ground Gait Trainer: NaTUre-Gaits

   58 citations · 2014
5. 5
   A Variable Stiffness Robotic Gripper Based on Structure-Controlled Principle

   55 citations · 2017
6. 6
   Design and Implementation of a Lightweight Bioinspired Pectoral Fin Driven by SMA

   53 citations · 2014
7. 7
   Modular design and initial gait study of an amphibian robotic turtle

   44 citations · 2007
8. 8
   An efficient foot-force distribution algorithm for quadruped walking robots

   43 citations · 2000
9. 9
   Locomotion and depth control of robotic fish with modular undulating fins

   43 citations · 2006
10. 10
    Development and initial experiment of modular undulating fin for untethered biorobotic AUVs

    43 citations · 2005

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links