Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Mohamed Irfan Mohamed Refai is a leading researcher at the intersection of biomechanics and wearable robotics, dedicated to making exoskeletons smarter and more human-centred. His work focuses on three key areas: lower limb exoskeleton design, neuro-mechanical model-based control, and ambulatory gait analysis. Refai’s major contribution lies in bridging the gap between mechatronic systems and human physiology. He has pioneered the use of skeletal muscle biomechanics to inform exoskeleton control, moving beyond traditional kinematic approaches. His open-source framework, CEINMS-RT, enables continuous neuro-mechanical model-based control of wearable robots, allowing devices to adapt to unknown loads in real time. This work is critical for reducing lumbosacral compression forces during lifting tasks, as demonstrated in his soft back exosuit research. With over 30 citations across his top papers, Refai’s impact is growing rapidly. Notably, his 2023 narrative review on tapping into muscle biomechanics for exoskeleton design has already garnered 10 citations, underscoring its influence. He is also a key contributor to the SOPHIA project, which uses digital human models for ergonomic workplace design. Refai’s research is not only advancing assistive technology but also laying the groundwork for truly adaptive, human-centred robotic systems.