University of Calabria, Italy
Giuseppe Carbone has got his PhD degree in Robotics from the University of Cassino, Italy, in 2004 He has been visiting professor at Universidad Carlos III of Madrid, Beihang University, Waseda University, and several other well-reputed International Research Institutions. From 2024 he has joined East China Jiaotong University. From 2020 he is Chair of IFToMM TC on Robotics and Mechatronics. From 2018 he has joined University of Calabria, Italy. From 2018 to 2021 he has been Visiting professor at Sheffield Hallam University, UK where he served as Senior Lecturer and member of the Executive board of Sheffield Robotics from 2015 to 2017. He has been Scientific Director of the International Research Laboratory Intelligent Robotic Systems and Technologies. Among others he is Editor-in-Chief of Robotica Journal (Cambridge Univ. Press), Section EIC of Journal of Bionic Engineering, MDPI Robotics, MDPI Machines, Technical Editor of IEEE/ASME Transactions on Mechatronics. He has been PI or co-PI of more than 20 projects including 7th European Framework and H2020 funds. He has received more than 20 Best Paper awards and more than 10 International Best Patent awards. His research interests cover aspects of Engineering Design, Mechanics of Robots, Mechanics of Manipulation and Grasp, Mechanics of Machinery with over 500 research paper outputs, 20 patents, and 16 Phd completions (8 ongoing). He has been also member of 20 PhD evaluation Commissions in Italy, Spain, Finland, UK, Romania, Mexico, India. He has been invited to deliver Keynote speeches and lectures on his research activity at more than 30 International events. He edited/co-edited four books that have been published by Springer and Elsevier International Publishers. h-index 40 n. citations >6000 (source google scholar). In January 2023 he received an Honoris Causa Doctoral Degree from Technical University of Cluj-Napoca (Romania). In June 2023 he received an Honoris Causa Doctoral Degree from University of Craiova (Romania).
Abstract: This presentation highlights design strategies that embed intelligence into robotic grippers and hands, showing how effective functionality can arise from the synergy of mechanics, sensing, and control rather than from expensive complexity. By focusing on simplicity in mechanical structures and modular architectures, we demonstrate how grasping systems can combine robustness with adaptability while remaining cost-effective to manufacture and maintain. Streamlined actuation methods—employing fewer motors and optimized linkages—will be presented as practical solutions for ensuring reliable performance across a wide range of tasks. Drawing on case studies and simulation results, we further illustrate how iterative prototyping and virtual testing can uncover opportunities for refinement early in development, leading to grasping solutions that are not only efficient in design but also intelligent in operation.