The Agile & Adaptive Robotics Laboratory (AARL) at Portland State University studies how animals and humans achieve agile, stable, and adaptable movement and applies those principles to robotic systems.
Led by Mechanical and Materials Engineering Professor Alex Hunt in PSU’s Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science, the lab brings together robotics, biomechanics, artificial muscles, sensing, neural control, and advanced manufacturing. AARL researchers use physical robots and computational models to study biological movement and develop machines that can adapt to complex environments.
What We Research
AARL develops biologically inspired robots, actuators, sensors, and control systems to investigate fundamental questions about movement.
Research areas include:
- Biomimetic legged robotics
- Agile and adaptive locomotion
- Artificial muscles and pneumatic actuators
- Neural networks and robotic control
- Proprioceptive, vestibular, and visual feedback
- Human and robotic balance
- Flexible sensing systems
- Additive manufacturing and robotic design
This interdisciplinary work connects mechanical engineering, robotics, biology, neuroscience, controls, and advanced manufacturing.
Robots and Research Projects
AARL creates physical robotic platforms that allow researchers to test how biological principles can improve robotic movement, balance, and adaptability. Current and recent projects include:
Quadruped Robots
AARL uses four-legged robotic systems to investigate locomotion, neural control, sensory feedback, and coordinated movement. Read about the quadruped research
Biomimetic Humanoid Robots
Humanoid robotic platforms help researchers study human movement, posture, balance, and the interaction between muscles, sensors, and control systems.
Lunar Hexapod
AARL’s six-legged lunar robot explores adaptive locomotion across uneven and challenging terrain. The project examines how robots can maintain mobility when environmental conditions are uncertain. Learn more about AARL research
Artificial Muscles and Flexible Sensors
AARL researchers develop braided pneumatic actuators that contract and produce force in ways similar to biological muscles. These lightweight artificial muscles can support robots designed for compliant, dynamic movement. The lab also investigates flexible sensors that measure actuator motion and force. By combining artificial muscles with sensory feedback, researchers can create biomimetic robots that better detect and respond to changes in their bodies and surroundings. Read Stretching the Limits: PSU's Agile Robotics Lab and Liquid Wire Flex Their Muscles
Student Research Opportunities
Undergraduate and graduate students can contribute to active robotics research at AARL. Depending on the project, students may work on:
- Mechanical and robotic design
- Programming and control systems
- CAD and 3D modeling
- Additive manufacturing and 3D printing
- Sensor development and testing
- Robot fabrication and assembly
- Data collection and analysis
Helpful technical skills include SolidWorks, MATLAB, Python, 3D printing, and mechanical assembly. Students do not need experience in every area to get involved. Curiosity, reliability, and a willingness to learn are equally important.
Collaborate With AARL
AARL welcomes connections with Portland State University students and faculty, visiting researchers, academic institutions, and industry partners working in robotics, biomechanics, sensing, actuation, controls, or advanced manufacturing. Contact the lab to discuss research participation, academic collaboration, or potential partnerships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Agile & Adaptive Robotics Laboratory?
The Agile & Adaptive Robotics Laboratory is a robotics research lab at Portland State University. AARL studies biological movement and uses those insights to develop agile, stable, and adaptive robotic systems.
What does AARL research?
AARL researches biomimetic robots, legged locomotion, artificial muscles, flexible sensors, neural control, balance, sensory feedback, and robotic manufacturing.
Who leads AARL?
AARL is led by Alex Hunt, principal investigator and faculty member in Portland State University’s Maseeh College of Engineering and Computer Science.
Can Portland State students join the lab?
Undergraduate and graduate students may be able to participate in AARL research. Opportunities can involve mechanical design, programming, controls, sensing, 3D printing, fabrication, and data analysis.
Where is AARL located?
AARL is located in rooms EB 590 and EB 595 of the Engineering Building at Portland State University in downtown Portland, Oregon.