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About

Kithmi N.D. Widanage is a researcher at the intersection of robotics, prosthetics, and human-robot collaboration, with a focus on assistive and industrial applications. Her work spans three key areas: wearable robotic exoskeletons for manual handling, adaptive control systems for surface treatment, and prosthetic limb design. Her most cited paper, "Exoskeletons for Manual Handling: A Scoping Review" (2023, 7 citations), provides a comprehensive overview of how exoskeletons can reduce work-related musculoskeletal disorders—a critical issue in labor-intensive industries. In "Nonrepetitive-Path Iterative Learning and Control for Human-Guided Robotic Operations on Unknown Surfaces" (2025, 4 citations), she tackles the challenge of automating abrasive machining on unknown geometries, enabling skilled workers to collaborate with robots for consistent quality. Her work on the TRoPHy transtibial prosthesis (2019, 4 citations) introduces a hybrid active-passive powering mechanism for natural ankle motion, while her iGrasp Robotic Prosthetic Hand (2021) reflects her commitment to improving quality of life for differently-abled individuals. With contributions that bridge automation and human assistance, Widanage’s research demonstrates tangible impact in both rehabilitation and manufacturing.