Robust Bipedal Locomotion via Reachability Analysis

Reachability analysis provides a powerful framework for understanding and guaranteeing robustness in bipedal systems. By computing the set of states that a system can reach under various conditions, we can identify safe operating regions, quantify robustness margins, and design controllers that maintain stability despite model uncertainties and disturbances. This is especially relevant to wearables and exoskeletons, where failure poses a great risk to the patient’s safety.

In this project, we develop algorithms based on reachability analysis for verification and design of bipedal robot controllers with safety and reliability guarantees. Ultimately, this work will bridge the gap between theoretical guarantees and practical implementation on bipedal robots and wearable devices.


PhD Students

  • Varun Madabushi (vmadabushi3 at gatech dot edu)

Collaborators

  • Akash Harapanahalli
  • Sam Coogan

Tools & Technologies

Hybrid Systems Theory, Reachability Analysis, Robust Control, Contraction Theory

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Related Publications:

  1. Differentiable Invariant Sets for Hybrid Limit Cycles with Application to Legged Robots
    Varun Madabushi, Akash Harapanahalli, Samuel Coogan, and Maegan Tucker
    2026
  2. Finite-Step Invariant Sets for Hybrid Systems with Probabilistic Guarantees
    Varun Madabushi, Elizabeth Dietrich, Hanna Krasowski, and Maegan Tucker
    2026