My main research project targets the development of technologies for improving the quality of life of people with motor disabilities. In particular, we are developing systems that enable the practice of physical exercise (e.g. cycling and rowing) by individuals with paraplegia using their own lower limbs, and wearable systems that may help in daily tasks (e.g. transferring from the wheelchair). My ultimate goal is to develop technology that will enable permanent rehabilitation for persons with severe motor impairments caused by neurological disorders, such as spinal cord injury and stroke.

This is also the overall objective of team EMA (Empowering Mobility & Autonomy), which groups members from the University of Brasília and partner institutions. Two collaborative projects are also conducted within the same research environment: TAO, which concerns the development of Transparent Active Orthoses and features a collaboration between USP, UFES, UFRN and UnB, and
CACAO, a collaborative project between UnB and INRIA (France) focused on lower limb electrical stimulation for function restoration.

Additional projects


  • CLARA: development of Combined Laparoscopic Applications using Robotic Apparatuses

Past projects


  • RLEG (2011-2014): robotic prosthesis for above knee amputees
  • TREMOR (2007-2010): pathological tremor compensation using FES
  • CARCARAH (2005-2007): a prototype of drone based on RC helicopter for powerlines inspection