Yan Teng

Nanjing University of Science and Technology

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Yan Teng is a robotics researcher whose work centers on the design and development of bio-inspired soft robotic systems, with a particular focus on pneumatically actuated locomotion mechanisms. Drawing inspiration from the natural world, Teng has made notable contributions to the emerging field of soft robotics through the creation of earthworm-like robots capable of replicating the peristaltic crawling movements found in biological organisms. Teng's most recognized work includes a 2016 study detailing a pneumatic-driven earthworm-like soft robot — garnering 22 citations — which introduced an innovative design combining soft actuators with unidirectional crawling feet fabricated from room-temperature vulcanizing (RTV) silicone materials. This was preceded by a 2015 publication exploring the foundational design principles and characteristic behaviors of such systems, accumulating 13 citations. Together, these papers represent a coherent and progressive research agenda that advances our understanding of how soft, compliant structures can achieve reliable locomotion without rigid components. Teng's research holds significant implications for fields such as minimally invasive medical robotics, search-and-rescue applications, and the broader development of adaptable machines capable of navigating complex, confined environments where traditional rigid robots fall short.