We are a laboratory in Mechanical Engineering at Vanderbilt University, affiliated with the Vanderbilt Initiative in Surgery and Engineering (ViSE).

We are interested in advancing the science of robotics, mechatronics, and medical engineering, and in applying our results to real-world medical (usually surgical) problems.  Solving them typically involves research in design, kinematic and dynamic modeling, control, and human-machine interaction. Topics of interest include continuum (tentacle-like) robots, synthesis and optimization of mechanisms, novel actuation and sensing methods, and human control interfaces for medical devices.

Working closely with surgeons and radiologists, we carefully study current practice and then engineer better solutions. This has led to projects ranging from swallowable pill-sized robots to steerable needles and active cannulas.  See our Research or Publications pages for further information on current projects.