News
2025
Join us in Hangzhou for an exciting workshop on shape-morphing robotics, co-organized by the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL) and The Faboratory (Yale University) at IROS 2025!
We’re thrilled to announce our collaboration with Yale University’s Faboratory to host a workshop at the IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS) 2025 in Hangzhou, China.
The focus? Shape-morphing robotics — including:
- Reconfigurable mechanisms
- Soft materials
- Embodied sensing
- Adaptive control
Researchers and practitioners are invited to contribute through two submission channels:
- Poster Session: Upload a PDF of your poster related to shape-morphing robotics.
- Lightning Talks: Submit a 200-word abstract for a chance to give a 5-minute talk.
📅 Submission Deadline: September 1, 2025
🏆 Awards: Best Poster & Best Lightning Talk
🔗 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScM5NCuQ8KruJff5Sfa7bQKILh2XkwhEKl2sGTyR1RMiHOk2w/viewform
📄 https://www.shapemorphingrobot.com
Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your work, engage with the robotics community, and explore new frontiers in morphing machines.
Our latest publication introduces a modular pneumatic supply system designed for rapid, robust operation — all built with off-the-shelf components.
We’re excited to share our newly published work, “A Plug-and-Play Pneumatic Supply System”, in IEEE Robotics and Automation Letters (RA-L). This system enables actuation frequencies of up to 300 Hz and supports a wide range of soft pneumatic actuators (SPAs) and internal volumes, all while maintaining high performance and reliability.
The best part? No custom hardware required — it’s entirely constructed from off-the-shelf parts, making it accessible and easily replicable.
🎥 Video:
📄 https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/11014517
This work offers a robust and flexible solution for researchers and developers working in soft robotics, wearable systems, and rapid actuation domains.
👥 Charles Froessel, Max A. A., Serhat Demirtaş, Jamie Paik
The Reconfigurable Robotics Lab made a strong showing at IEEE RoboSoft 2025 — with research presentations, interactive demos, and award-winning art!
The full lab team traveled to RoboSoft 2025 to share our latest work and connect with the vibrant soft robotics community.
🔬 Research Presentations:
- Yuhao Jiang presented “CPG-Based Motion Generator for Multi-Module Origami Robot”.
- Serhat Demirtaş showcased “A Plug-and-Play Pneumatic Supply System” — highlighting modularity and performance in soft and origami-inspired systems.
🎨 Art Expo Highlights:
- Alexander Schüßler presented “Tangible Interactions”.
- Ekrem Yüksel exhibited “Tangible Music”.
- Award: Tangible Music — a collaboration between Ekrem Yüksel, Alihan Bakir, and Alexander Schüßler — won 2nd place in the Outstanding Arts Exhibit!
💡 We also welcomed over 100 visitors to our demo at the lab — thank you to everyone who stopped by!
We’re proud to be part of a community pushing the boundaries of robotics, creativity, and design.
Our supernumerary wearable robotic arm is now featured in the Augmented Human exhibition at the Switzerland Pavilion, Expo 2025 Osaka!
Developed from modular Robogami components, this lightweight, body-mounted robotic arm is designed to deliver personalized assistance across a range of environments — from daily life and industrial settings to healthcare and even space applications.
As part of the Swiss delegation’s vision for technological innovation and human-centered design, the robotic arm will be on display until June 2025 at the World Expo in Osaka, Japan.
This international platform celebrates the future of human augmentation, showcasing how robotics and soft mechanisms can support, extend, and adapt to the human body.
If you're attending Expo 2025, don’t miss your chance to experience this vision of the future firsthand at the Switzerland Pavilion.
We recently sat down with Alexander Schüßler, PhD student at the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL), to learn more about his journey in robotics and the unique challenges of modular, reconfigurable systems.
In this interview, Alexander shares how his background in design and engineering led him to explore the intersection of robotics, interaction, and adaptability. From prototyping modular mechanisms to integrating robotics into artistic expression, his research reflects the creative and technical depth that drives innovation at RRL.
Stay tuned for the full interview, where we’ll explore:
- His path to EPFL and the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab
- How reconfigurable and wearable robots can change the way humans interact with machines
- The interdisciplinary nature of his work — bridging research, design, and technology
- The challenges and rewards of working at the frontiers of modular robotics
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7315387963926859776
The Reconfigurable Robotics Lab team took to the slopes for a well-earned day of skiing, connection, and conversation at Les Diablerets.
Surrounded by stunning alpine views, the RRL group enjoyed a refreshing break from the lab — with plenty of time for snow, skiing, and informal discussions about the future of reconfigurable and modular robotics.
Events like these are more than just fun: they help us strengthen team dynamics, share ideas across projects, and reflect together on where we’re headed as a lab. Whether it's on the mountain or at the bench, collaboration and creativity are central to what we do.
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7303716118685208576
We’re excited to welcome Theodoros Papafotiou (Theo) to the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL) as a new doctoral assistant.
Theo recently completed his MSc in Robotics at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH) in Greece. His academic journey has been shaped by a strong foundation in robotics and a growing interest in adaptive, intelligent systems.
At RRL, Theo will contribute to the Mori3 project — our modular origami-inspired robot — focusing on key areas such as autonomous navigation, smart sensing, and adaptive reconfiguration for future space applications.
We’re thrilled to have him on board and look forward to the ideas and energy he brings to the lab.
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7297642283951116288
Welcome to EPFL and RRL, Theo!
On February 5, the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab had the pleasure of hosting WIRED Japan for a behind-the-scenes look at our work — with a spotlight on our wearable robotic arm.
The visit was part of WIRED Japan’s coverage for Expo 2025 Osaka, where our supernumerary third arm will be showcased at the Switzerland Pavilion. The project, led by Alexander Schüßler, explores how modular robotic systems can extend human capabilities in everyday and extreme environments.
We shared insights into the design, interaction concepts, and future applications of reconfigurable robotic augmentation — from healthcare to space exploration.
Prof. Jamie Paik recently represented the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL) at two key robotics conferences hosted by The Chinese University of Hong Kong and CUHK Shenzhen.
At the Conference on Robots for Science 2025 (CUHK, Hong Kong) and AIRS 2024 (CUHK Shenzhen), Prof. Paik joined global leaders in robotics to explore how robotic systems are transforming the future of scientific discovery, engineering, and intelligent technologies.
These events provided valuable opportunities to share insights from RRL’s work in reconfigurable robotics, discuss emerging challenges, and strengthen international collaboration in research and innovation.
🔗 Prof. Jamie Paik Represents RRL at Robots for Science 2025 and AIRS 2024
We're proud to contribute to the global conversation on robotics at the intersection of science, society, and innovation.
We began 2025 with an inspiring exchange of ideas between the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The meeting offered a fascinating look into how the ICRC is applying emerging technologies in their training and humanitarian operations. Discussions touched on the role of wearable and reconfigurable robotic systems in field applications — opening up exciting possibilities for future collaboration.
It was a valuable opportunity to connect research with real-world impact and see how innovation in robotics can serve people in challenging environments.
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7287129286224826368
Here’s to a new year filled with innovation, collaboration, and meaningful breakthroughs.
Happy New Year from all of us at RRL!
2024
On December 6, the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL) hosted the 2024 Robot Demo Day, welcoming over 250 visitors for an exciting celebration of creativity, engineering, and future-ready robotics.
The event brought together professionals, community members, families, and friends to experience a diverse range of projects developed by students over just 12 weeks. From wearable robots to sustainable reconfigurable systems, the demos highlighted novel approaches to solving real-world challenges through robotics.
Guests also had the chance to explore the RRL’s latest research advances and interact directly with the researchers behind the innovations.
We extend a big thank you to everyone who contributed to the event’s success — from the brilliant student teams to our supportive visitors and collaborators.
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7275455868521893888
Here’s to the next generation of roboticists and a future driven by sustainable, reconfigurable design!
On November 21 and 22, the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL) welcomed high school students as part of EPFL’s annual Information Days — an event designed to introduce young minds to the world of science and engineering.
During our dedicated workshop, students explored the exciting potential of reconfigurable robotics and learned how modular, adaptable machines can impact future technologies in areas like healthcare, manufacturing, and space exploration.
They also got a glimpse into current RRL research projects — from soft wearable systems to origami-inspired robots — and discovered how innovation at the intersection of design and engineering can shape tomorrow’s world.
We were thrilled to be part of this campus-wide initiative to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and roboticists.
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7266753934503948288
On November 14, the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL) welcomed young students as part of the Oser tous les métiers initiative — a national day encouraging children to explore a wide range of professions.
During their visit, the students had the opportunity to discover robotic technologies up close and learn about the innovative projects developed by our team — from modular systems to soft, wearable robots. The hands-on demos and interactive discussions sparked curiosity and encouraged questions about engineering, design, and the future of robotics.
We’re proud to support STEM education and help empower the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7264288218857058305
We’re excited to welcome Antonio Rapallini, a visiting student from the University of Bologna, to the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL)!
As part of his Master’s Thesis, Antonio is developing an innovative rehabilitation device aimed at supporting hand muscle recovery. His work builds on RRL’s modular Digits platform, enhancing it with EMG sensors to monitor muscle activity and deliver adaptive resistance forces based on user needs.
This integration of modular design and biofeedback represents a promising step forward in assistive and rehabilitation technologies, with potential applications in clinical settings and home-based recovery.
We’re looking forward to supporting Antonio’s research and seeing how it contributes to the growing field of personalized, smart rehabilitation systems.
Welcome to RRL, Antonio!
The Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL) was proud to take part in Swiss Robotics Day 2024, showcasing our latest research in modular and reconfigurable robotic systems.
This annual event brought together leaders from academia, industry, and the public to explore how robotics is shaping the future of technology, engineering, and intelligent systems. Our team had the opportunity to present recent developments, exchange insights, and engage with a diverse and forward-looking community.
From hands-on demos to discussions on adaptability and real-world impact, it was an inspiring day of connection and discovery.
A big thank you to the organizers, visitors, and fellow researchers who made Swiss Robotics Day 2024 such a success.
Watch our event highlights to see what we’ve been building.
We’re excited to welcome Ekrem Yüksel to the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL)!
Ekrem recently completed his MSc in Robotics at EPFL, and brings with him strong expertise in mechanical design, control systems, and software development. His work at RRL focuses on two of our key projects — Mori3 and the Robotic Platform for Virtual Dynamic Environments — where he is developing embedded controllers to drive the next generation of modular, adaptive robotic systems.
With a background that spans haptics, rehabilitation robotics, exoskeletons, and mobile platforms, Ekrem adds valuable interdisciplinary insight to our team. We’re thrilled to have him on board as we continue exploring the frontiers of reconfigurable robotics.
Welcome to RRL, Ekrem!
We’re proud to share that our latest work, “Reconfigurable Living Spaces through Multi-Scale Modular Origami Robotic Surfaces,” has been featured in this week’s IEEE Spectrum Video Friday!
Developed at the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL), this innovative system reimagines how we interact with our built environments. By using multi-scale modular origami robotic surfaces, the project enables static structures to become dynamic, responsive, and physically interactive.
Key capabilities include:
- Shape morphing
- Force feedback
- Stiffness adaptivity
These features allow living spaces to actively respond to human presence and input, opening up new directions for human-computer interaction, assistive environments, and architectural robotics.
We’re grateful to IEEE Spectrum for highlighting this work and helping bring attention to the future of adaptable environments.
🎥 [Insert video/image placeholder]
Stay tuned for more on how robotic surfaces can reshape everyday experiences.
Prof. Jamie Paik presented the latest work from the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL) at ICRA@40 in Rotterdam, showcasing a new frontier in responsive environments.
The project, titled Reconfigurable Living Spaces Using Multi-Scale Modular Origami Robotic Surfaces, introduces a robotic system capable of dynamically adapting shape and stiffness in real-time. These robotic surfaces enable environments to respond to human interaction — offering potential applications in adaptive architecture, assistive living, and interactive design.
This innovation pushes the boundaries of how robotics can transform not just how we move through space, but how space itself responds to us.
Thank you to ICRA@40 for the opportunity to share this vision with the robotics community.
We are proud to celebrate the graduation of three exceptional researchers and long-time friends of the Reconfigurable Robotics Lab (EPFL): Mustafa M., Kevin Holdcroft, and Fabio Zuliani.
Throughout their time at RRL, they made impactful scientific contributions while helping shape the collaborative and innovative spirit that defines our lab culture.
- ◯ Mustafa M. focused on extending human interaction capabilities with soft robotics, advancing wearable systems for physical augmentation.
- ▲ Kevin Holdcroft worked on Memento Mori: Reliable robustness in self-reconfigurable modular robots, pushing the boundaries of modular autonomy.
- ⬢ Fabio Zuliani developed human-interactive robotic surfaces for physical immersion, merging spatial design with responsive technologies.
Their dedication, creativity, and teamwork will be deeply missed — but we’re excited to see where their journeys lead. Whether in research, industry, or new ventures, we are confident they’ll continue shaping the future of robotics and human-technology interaction.
Congratulations, Mustafa, Kevin, and Fabio — your achievements inspire us all.
We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way!