معرفی
Gianluca Rizzello is a Junior Professor (equivalent to Assistant Professor) at Saarland University, where he leads the Adaptive Polymer Systems (APS) research group. He is affiliated with the Department of Mechatronics and Smart Systems within the College of Engineering and Informatics. His research focuses on smart materials, particularly dielectric elastomer actuators and shape memory alloys, with applications in soft robotics, energy harvesting, and intelligent mechatronic systems.
His research interests include the mathematical modeling, simulation, and control of complex smart material systems. He specializes in self-sensing algorithms, hysteresis modeling, and energy-efficient actuation strategies. His work bridges the gap between theoretical models and practical implementation, enabling next-generation intelligent devices. Key research themes include soft robotics, multifunctional actuators, sensorless control, and energy-based modeling.
The trend in his recent publications shows a strong emphasis on self-sensing and model-based control of dielectric elastomer systems, with increasing integration into soft robotic platforms. His work spans from fundamental material modeling to system-level design and experimental validation. He frequently publishes in top-tier journals such as IEEE Transactions on Robotics, Smart Materials and Structures, and Mechatronics.
He actively supervises students and collaborates with researchers including Prof. Stefan Seelecke and Dr. Paolo Motzki. His team has developed novel actuator concepts, control strategies, and applications in audio-tactile interfaces and biomedical devices.
He has contributed to book chapters on smart materials and holds a patent for an audio-tactile transducer device based on dielectric elastomers. His editorial contributions include works on shape memory alloys and smart materials for mini-actuators.
