Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Sabrina Paganoni is a pioneering researcher in soft wearable robotics, with a focus on developing assistive technologies for individuals living with upper limb impairments caused by spinal cord injury, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and other neuromuscular conditions. Her work centers on creating lightweight, textile-based robotic devices—including gloves, shoulder supports, and elbow assistants—that restore functional movement and independence in daily life. Paganoni's most influential contribution, a fabric-based soft robotic glove for spinal cord injury patients, has garnered over 245 citations, reflecting its significant impact on the assistive robotics field. Her subsequent work on grasp improvement and integrated sensing further refined the practical usability of these devices, collectively amassing hundreds of additional citations. A landmark 2023 study demonstrated the feasibility of a fully portable soft robotic wearable for individuals with ALS, addressing a critical gap in neurodegenerative disease care. More recently, Paganoni has incorporated personalized machine learning into robot control systems, enabling adaptive, user-specific assistance that better accommodates real-world variability. Across her body of work, she consistently bridges engineering innovation with clinical need, making her a compelling figure for researchers at the intersection of robotics, rehabilitation, and human-centered design.