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Robotics and Autonomous Systems Center (RASC) Seminar

Speaker: Prof. Maegan Tucker, Georgia Institute of Technology

Talk Title: Towards Robust and Personalized Exoskeleton Locomotion for People with SCI

Abstract: Despite rapid advances in humanoid robotic locomotion, translating these techniques to bipedal systems involving human models—such as lower-limb exoskeletons—remains an open challenge. These systems hold significant promise for restoring independent mobility to individuals with motor-complete spinal cord injury. However, special care must be given to ensure safety, user comfort, and adaptability to changing and uncertain human models. In this talk, I will explore why standard approaches to humanoid locomotion often fail when applied to human-robot systems, and how my lab is working to address these limitations. Topics that I will discuss include model-based trajectory optimization, reinforcement learning, preference-based learning, and musculoskeletal modeling.

Biography: Maegan Tucker is an Assistant Professor at Georgia Tech, jointly appointed in Electrical and Computer Engineering and Mechanical Engineering (since January 2024). She earned her B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech (2017) and her M.S. (2019) and Ph.D. (2023) from Caltech. Prof. Tucker's research focuses on the areas of robotic bipedal locomotion, human-robot interaction, and the biomechanics of lower-limb assistive technology. Ultimately, her work aims to develop personalized robotic technology to improve mobility for individuals with locomotor impairments. Prof. Tucker's awards and recognitions include the 2023 Centennial Prize for Best Thesis in Mechanical and Civil Engineering from Caltech, the 2022 Simoudis Discovery Prize from Caltech, and two "Best Paper" awards (Best Conference Paper and Best Paper in Human Robot Interaction) for the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) in 2020.

Host: Prof. Erdem Biyik

Webcast: https://usc.zoom.us/j/98467179605?pwd=XJ1yibzUUhsRFCcCcNFonHKsR4lU99.1

Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 248

WebCast Link: https://usc.zoom.us/j/98467179605?pwd=XJ1yibzUUhsRFCcCcNFonHKsR4lU99.1

Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

Contact: ERDEM BIYIK

This event is open to all eligible individuals. USC Viterbi operates all of its activities consistent with the University's Notice of Non-Discrimination. Eligibility is not determined based on race, sex, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or any other prohibited factor.

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