New research group in the center for neurorobotics.
Professor Enrica Tricomi has started building a new research group at Technische Universität München (TUM) within MIRMI - a center focused on interactive robotics and medicine. This is not only another stage in her academic career but also an opportunity to create a new model of research: from scratch, with an emphasis on a culture of collaboration, innovation, and real-world applications. Professor Tricomi's vision is research that does not remain in the laboratory but has an impact on people's lives - especially those with motor disorders.
Her group is intended to be a place where young researchers can develop their own ideas, take responsibility for projects, and see the results of their work in the real world. It's not just about technology, but also about scientific culture - one that is open, supportive, and focused on a common goal: creating systems that truly help people move naturally and safely in their daily lives. Collaboration with clinical partners is crucial from the very beginning.
Hybrid systems: robotics and neuromodulation together.
Professor Tricomi's research focuses on neurorobotics - a field that combines robotics with neurology and biomechanics. Her main goal is to create wearable robotic systems that do not require the user to adapt to the device, but rather the other way around - they learn from the person and support their movement in a natural way. This shift from 'machine for man' to 'collaboration with man' is the basis of a new generation of assistive technology.
In particular, she is interested in the development of hybrid systems that combine robotic mechanisms with neuromodulation - i.e., direct interaction with nerves and muscles. In this approach, a wearable robot provides mechanical support, while electrical or sensory stimulation supports the functioning of the nervous-muscular system. This solution can not only help when needed but also support long-term regeneration of motor functions in people with neurodegenerative diseases.
Culture of collaboration and interdisciplinary approach
The aim of Prof. Tricomi's group is to build a team with diverse disciplines: from robotics, electrical and mechanical engineering to neurology, biomechanics, physiology and rehabilitation sciences. The value of this collaboration lies in the fact that only by combining different perspectives can technologies be created that are not only technologically advanced but also practical and user-friendly. TUM MIRMI offers an ideal environment for this approach - with strong traditions in robotics for safe human interaction.
Collaboration with clinical partners allows for testing new solutions already at early stages of development. This is not just a "test after release", but a continuous iteration: patients and therapists participate in the project from the very beginning, and their opinions shape the final form of the technology. This approach ensures that the systems being developed are not only modern but also truly needed and useful in everyday medical practice.
Significance and prospects for motor therapy
Professor Tricomi's vision has the potential to significantly impact the rehabilitation of people with movement disorders, for whom comfort when using the device and its adaptation to individual needs are important. Current assistive systems are often heavy, not adapted for everyday use, and require significant adaptive effort from the user. A new approach - emphasizing natural movement, adaptation to the user, and support for regeneration - could change the way therapy is delivered and how effective it is.
Although there is no data yet on specific research results or implementations, the very fact of building a group with such an assumption indicates the development of a direction that combines technological innovation with the real needs of patients. The perspective is that technology should not just be an "add-on", but an integral part of the rehabilitation process - supporting movement, learning and supporting long-term improvement of physical functions. This is the future in which robotics does not replace humans, but expands them.