Jan Tommy Gravdahl is a Professor at the Department of Engineering Cybernetics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). His research focuses on advanced control systems, robotics, and their applications in marine, aerospace, and industrial systems. Key interests include underwater robotics, spacecraft attitude control, nonlinear control, and model predictive control. Research Interests: Development of control algorithms for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and snake robots, including path following, energy shaping, and compliant interaction. Spacecraft attitude control systems, emphasizing energy optimization and solar-powered mission execution. Robust control methodologies such as sliding mode control (e.g., super-twisting algorithm) and task-priority frameworks. Integration of learning-based techniques (e.g., reinforcement learning, neural networks) into model predictive control architectures. Applications in robotics for manufacturing, including additive manufacturing and sensor-guided robotic systems. Publications Trends: Recent work emphasizes underwater robotics (snake robot locomotion, wake navigation), spacecraft control (energy-optimal attitude maneuvers), and advanced MPC frameworks. Key themes include safety constraints, real-time adaptation, and multi-robot cooperation. Advising/Grants: Advises students on topics ranging from control theory to robotics applications. Collaborates on projects funded by industries and research councils, though specific grants are not listed here. Labs/Teams: Likely involved with NTNU’s robotics and automation groups, particularly in underwater robotics and aerospace control systems research.
