Luis Figueredo
Date:
Speaker
Luis Figueredo is an Assistant Professor specializing in human-centric robotics. His research focuses on developing intelligent robotic systems that can safely and effectively collaborate with humans in various environments. His interdisciplinary work spans geometric methods for manipulation and control, complex object manipulation, cooperative manipulation systems, safe physical human-robot interaction, and both implicit and explicit human-robot communication. Additional research interests include biomechanics-aware assistive robotics and applications of control theory and geometric algebra in robotic systems. Professor Figueredo leads a dynamic research group dedicated to solving real-world robotics challenges through collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches. He firmly believes that meaningful advances in the field require cross-disciplinary cooperation and perspective—along with a steady supply of coffee.
Speaker Links: Website - Google Scholar
Abstract
Recent breakthroughs in robotics have significantly narrowed the gap between humans and robots. However, the integration of robots into environments that require close co-existence or physical interaction with humans remains largely underdeveloped. Achieving a human-like level collaboration in such close scenarios requires seamless communication and mutual understanding of each other’s abilities—qualities essential to any safe and effective teamwork. To achieve this, robots must not only communicate and understand human natural language, but also develop a nuanced understanding of human physical capabilities, safety, ergonomics and a shared sense of embodiment. This entails integrating layers of responsive, reactive, and safety-certified functionalities into AI-driven multimodal interaction through intuitive language-based interfaces, and biomechanical insights. In this talk, I highlight the core elements of such comprehensive safe and functional approach and the tools to make robots and humans comfortable around each other.