Hardware Podcasts

Episode 135: Robot anatomy and design - Chapa Sirithunge

Robot Talk · 28 Nov 2025 · 26m · Episode 135

What this episode covers

Chapa Sirithunge, a Marie Sklodowska-Curie fellow at the University of Cambridge, discusses her research into bio-inspired robotics, specifically designing parametric robotic hands based on primate anatomy and the concept of 'biosimplification'. She explains how studying the flexible middle finger of the Aye-aye primate and the evolutionary history of primate hands informs the creation of versatile, open-source robotic hand designs with over 50 customizable parameters. Sirithunge also details her current work on improving safety on construction sites by integrating minimal sensor arrays and control algorithms into existing heavy machinery to create 'virtual repellents' between operators and moving parts.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
University of Cambridge, EPF Switzerland
Also
Aye-aye

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