About
Robert W Ellenberg
PhD Candidate, Drexel University
Lab Manager, Drexel Autonomous Systems Lab
215-895-6125 (Office)
rwe24@drexel.edu
Education
Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
BS Electrical Eng., June, 2007
BS Mechanical Eng., June 2010
Controls Concentration
Honors at Drexel
Presidential Scholarship
Jack and Gretchen Jenofsky Scholarship
Graduated with Honors, Electrical / Mechanical Engineering, Drexel University
Graduated Magna Cum Laude, Electrical Engineering, Drexel University
Research
Creativity and Humanoid Dance
As humanoid robotics and artificial intelligence push towards increasing complexity and sophistication, one key question arises: When does a computer program or robot become intelligent? While nobody seems to have conclusively answered this question, one hallmark seems to be common to all such answers: creativity. If an artificial entity can demonstrate creativity, then that should be evidence of intelligence as well. My work into dance as creative expression for a humanoid robot explores this premise.
Humanoid Robotics and Whole-Body Locomotion
The complexity of a humanoid robot is one of the biggest obstacles to their functioning in any complex environment. While modern humanoids such as the ASIMO, Hubo, HRP, and Wabian have shown impressive capabilities, they have trouble accomplishing some tasks that human toddlers could manage. My research focuses on using whole-body motion planning for stair-climbing, using the arms and upper body for additional balance and safety.