Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Sainan Zhang is a pioneering researcher in wearable robotics, with a focus on exoskeleton design and control for human augmentation and injury prevention. Her work centers on developing soft, spine-inspired exoskeletons that address back injuries—the most prevalent work-related musculoskeletal disorders—by replacing rigid linkages with continuum structures that allow natural movement. Her 2019 paper on this topic has garnered over 100 citations, highlighting its impact on the field. Zhang has also made significant contributions to exoskeleton actuation and control, including quasi-direct drive actuators that achieve high backdrivability and bandwidth, and spatial iterative learning torque control for high-accuracy assistance. Her most cited work (2024, 127 citations) introduces a groundbreaking experiment-free approach to exoskeleton assistance by learning optimal control policies in simulation, eliminating the need for costly human trials. This work, along with her other publications, demonstrates her ability to bridge simulation and real-world deployment, advancing the practicality of wearable robots. Zhang’s research is notable for its focus on reducing injury risk while enhancing user comfort and performance, making her a key figure in the future of assistive robotics.