David Cappelleri

David Cappelleri is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University and Assistant Vice President for Research Innovation. He directs the Multi-Scale Robotics & Automation Lab, where his research explores robotic systems that operate from the micro- to meso-scale, encompassing micromanipulation, mobile micro/nano robots, micro aerial vehicles, and biomedical micro-robotics. Cappelleri’s work integrates mechanical design, MEMS/NEMS fabrication, automation, dynamic modeling, and precision sensing to create robotic agents capable of manipulating tiny objects, navigating constrained environments, and performing tasks relevant to medicine, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing. His group investigates automated assembly processes at small scales, magnetic microrobot actuation, vision-based micro-force sensing, and micro-bio robotic platforms for minimally invasive intervention. Cappelleri’s contributions span foundational methods, experimental systems, and applied technologies, reflected in publications across robotics, automation, sensors, and microsystems research. His academic background includes degrees from Villanova, Penn State, and the University of Pennsylvania, followed by significant recognition for both research and teaching, including an NSF CAREER Award. He has collaborated widely across engineering and biomedical fields, advancing the capabilities of multi-scale automation and intelligent robotic manipulation. Representative publications include "Design, Fabrication, and Characterization of a Helical Adaptive Multi-Material MicroRobot (HAMMR)", and "Shape‐Programmable Adaptive Multi‐Material Microswimmers for Biomedical Applications", which reflect their ongoing engagement with the field.