Biomechanically informed control in human-robot interaction
In order to respond to the challenges of the increasing integration of robotic systems into human-centric environments in healthcare, industry and everyday life, the BIONIC project aims to improve human-robot interaction by developing systems for safe, adaptive and natural physical interaction. The project's starting point is the idea that technology must adapt to humans – not the other way around – thereby increasing the safety, efficiency and acceptability of robotic systems.
The key innovation is the concept of closed-loop interaction, in which the robot does not just react to user movements, but also anticipates human intent and proactively adapts its actions to account for uncertainties and environmental variability. Intent prediction is based on the integration of EMG signals, movement and gaze dynamics, and kinematic data via a stochastic predictor, with adaptation parameterized by the user's individual biomechanical profile.
The project also includes the development of methods for the precise identification of dynamic parameters of robots and tools (such as masses, centers of mass and moments of inertia) and biomechanical characteristics of humans (body proportions, EMG signal amplitude), through motion analysis that enables robust quantification. The control models are based on stochastic approaches that take into account uncertainties in measurements and model approximations.
The project also envisages experimental validation in collaborative manipulation tasks, development of digital databases and implementation of international mobility. It is expected to contribute to the development of collaborative robotics as well as the development of technologies that provide users with intelligent and adaptive support in functional and work activities.
Project description
Call for funding of Institutional research projects as part of negotiations for program funding
Implementation period: 16.12.2025. – 16.12.2028.
Project coordinator: University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture
Project lead: Bojan Sekoranja
Financing: IP/NPOO
Total budget: EUR 239,947.50
EU project funding: 159,999 EUR
The project was co-financed by the European Union from the European Regional Development Fund
The website was co-financed by the European Union from the European Regional Development Fund.
The content of the website is the sole responsibility of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture.