Goals

The overarching goal of this research is to design, develop, and test biologically inspired joints and rehabilitation devices that integrate compliant mechanisms, soft robotics, and intelligent control systems. By mimicking the flexibility and adaptability of human joints, the project aims to improve mobility solutions for individuals with physical impairments. Specifically, we focus on three interrelated goals: (1) creating compliant and soft robotic joints using advanced materials and 3D printing for applications in prosthetics, exoskeletons, and bipedal robots; (2) implementing real-time, AI-driven control systems that adapt to user intent and movement; and (3) developing wearable rehabilitation technologies that are both clinically relevant and user-centered. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this project aims to advance the state of the art in biomimetic robotics but also provides students with hands-on training in design, simulation, data acquisition, and AI integration.
Student with machine on hand to learn human hand movement

This Vertically Integrated Project (VIP) is aligned with the Mobility for Everyone (MOVE) Center at Kennesaw State University. Through this alignment, the project contributes to MOVE’s mission of advancing human mobility research while providing undergraduate students with interdisciplinary, hands-on research experiences. 

Experience Gained

Students will have the opportunity to work closely with a diverse team of undergraduate and graduate (master) students from the mechanical, mechatronics and robotics, computer engineering, and computer science programs and PhD students from the interdisciplinary engineering program. Students will be encouraged to choose research tasks based on their interests, but all new members will first complete foundational training in SolidWorks, Arduino-based data acquisition and actuation, and 3D printing. The biological joint team will also attend monthly meetings with our collaborator from Gatech.

Majors and Interests Needed

  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering Technology
  • Exercise Science
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • Mechatronics Engineering 

Team Advisors

Ayse Tekes, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering
Email: atekes@kennesaw.edu


Razvan Voicu, Ph.D. 
Assistant Professor, Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering
Email: rvoicu@kennesaw.edu


Coskun Tekes, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE)
Email: ctekes@kennesaw.edu

Lingfeng Tao, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering
Email: ltao2@kennesaw.edu


Sainan Zhang, Ph.D. 
Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering
Email: szhang23@kennesaw.edu


Md Shougat, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Mechanical Engineering
Email: mshougat@kennesaw.edu