Fluid Mechatronics and Robotic Systems

Fluid mechatronics connects hydraulics, mechanics, electronics, and system control to develop intelligent fluid power solutions. We research the use of hydraulic drives, soft actuators, grippers, and advanced control systems in robotic applications. We pay special attention to developing robust robotic systems for operation in demanding environments, where conventional electric drives often cannot provide sufficient power or reliability.

 

🏆 Highlighted Achievements

The SOFT LOGGING Project

Development of the first soft robotic hydraulic log gripping system for use in forestry machinery.

Development of Hydraulic Actuators

Research and development of actuators for applications requiring high forces, precise control, and high reliability.

Industrial Applications

Transfer of research into real-world applications in automation, material handling, and forestry machinery.

⚙️ Key Activities

🤏 Soft Robotics

 

🤖 Hydraulic Robotic Systems

 

🦾 Fluid Actuators

 

🎯 Motion Control and Regulation

📡 Sensor Integration

 

👨‍🔬 Researchers

Franc Majdič Assoc. Prof. Dr., Univ. Dipl. Eng. Mech.

Franc Majdič Assoc. Prof. Dr., Univ. Dipl. Eng. Mech.

Head of the Research Group

Email:

Jan Pustavrh MSc Mech. Eng.

Jan Pustavrh MSc Mech. Eng.

Email: jan.pustavrh@fs.uni-lj.si

Nejc Novak PhD, Dipl. Eng. Mech.

Nejc Novak PhD, Dipl. Eng. Mech.

Email: nejc.novak@fs.uni-lj.si

and other researchers depending on the specific project.

🚀Active Projects

SOFT LOGGING, Soft Robotic Hydraulic Log Gripping System (2023–2026)

Development of an innovative hydraulic gripping system for log handling using soft robotics principles.

Development of Hydraulic Robotic Actuators

 Research on drive systems for robotic and automated applications.

📝 Selected Publications

Comparison of Hydraulic, Pneumatic and Electric Linear Actuation Systems

Development of Miniature Proportional Hydraulic Valve for Humanoid Robot Applications

New Rotary-Actuated Proportional Valves for Robotic Applications

Soft Robotics in Fluid Power Systems

Hydraulic Actuation Concepts for Advanced Robotic Systems

→ Link to all publications in this area

🎓Key Topics for Theses

Selected Topics

  • Soft robotics and gripping systems
  • Hydraulic robotic actuators
  • Fluid drives for robotic applications
  • Motion Control and Regulation
  • Sensor integration in mechatronic systems
  • Development of intelligent fluid power devices

→ Link to the list of all theses