Konrad Stadler

Prof. Dr. Konrad Stadler serves as Professor and Programme Director for the Master of Science in Engineering Education at Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW), School of Engineering, Department of Engineering Education. His work bridges academic research with industrial and medical applications of wearable robotics, focusing on exoskeleton systems for physical assistance.

Stadler holds a Dr. sc. techn. (1999-2003) and Dipl. El. Ing. ETH (1993-1999), both from ETH Zurich. His educational background in electrical engineering underpins his technical approach to biomechanical systems.

His research centers on wearable robotics with dual industrial and medical applications. Stadler investigates soft exoskeletons for reducing physical workload in manufacturing and assisting mobility-impaired individuals through pneumatic actuation, string-based mechanisms, and modular designs. Key focus areas include human-robot interaction modeling, biomechanical load assessment, and real-world validation of assistive systems in both workplace ergonomics and rehabilitation contexts.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals an evolution from rigid industrial exoskeletons (2014-2016) toward soft, modular systems (2017-2020). Early work emphasized upper-limb gravity compensation and workplace ergonomics, while recent research focuses on lower-limb rehabilitation with pneumatic actuation and unsupervised monitoring systems. Common threads include user-exoskeleton interaction modeling, sensor integration for contextual awareness, and feasibility studies for specific mobility impairments, demonstrating consistent translation of engineering principles into practical human-centered solutions.

No scientific awards were documented in the provided sources.

While no formal PhD/Master's students are listed, Stadler's leadership of multi-institutional projects (Robo-Mate, XoSoft, HumanTech) indicates mentorship of research teams. These projects, likely funded through European and Swiss grants, address industrial exoskeleton development and rehabilitation technology, with emphasis on human-robot interaction and practical implementation.

Stadler collaborates within international consortia including European partners in the Robo-Mate project (industrial exoskeletons) and XoSoft initiative (soft modular exoskeletons), working with institutions across Switzerland, Italy, Ireland, and Germany. His teams integrate mechanical engineering, biomechanics, and control systems expertise to develop validated exoskeleton prototypes for real-world deployment.