Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fan Zhang ,Shanghai University of Engineering Science, China
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fan Zhang is a distinguished academic and robotics researcher at the Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Robotics, Shanghai University of Engineering Science. With over 15 years of experience in academia, his work focuses on the analysis, design, and optimization of parallel robotic mechanisms, contributing to both theoretical foundations and practical applications in intelligent automation systems.
Profile
Scopus
🎓 Early Academic Pursuits
Dr. Zhang embarked on his academic journey at the College of Mechanical Engineering, DongHua University, where he undertook a Combined Master and Doctoral Degree (2003–2008) in Robotics. His doctoral research, titled “Performance Analysis and Type Synthesis of Parallel Mechanisms”, explored critical aspects such as mobility analysis, Jacobian matrix computation, and motion-free parallel mechanism design—laying a robust theoretical groundwork in robotic kinematics and dynamics.
🧑🏫 Professional Endeavors
Dr. Zhang began his professional career as a Lecturer in Robotics (2009–2011) at the Shanghai University of Engineering Science, and was later promoted to Associate Professor in 2011, where he has continued to serve. His position at the Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Robotics allows him to contribute to cutting-edge developments in intelligent control systems, robotic mechanism synthesis, and automation technologies.
🔬 Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Zhang’s core expertise lies in the limited-DOF parallel mechanism design, particularly focused on Jacobian matrix analysis, performance evaluation, and type synthesis methodologies. His research bridges mechanical engineering and robotics control, aiming to create more precise, efficient, and adaptable robotic systems. His work is critical in industrial automation, biomechanics, and intelligent manufacturing.
🌐 Impact and Influence
Though primarily based in China, Dr. Zhang’s research holds international relevance in the field of robotics kinematics. His studies on instantaneous motion-free mechanisms are particularly noteworthy for their potential to enhance robotic precision in constrained environments. As a mentor and researcher, he has influenced numerous students and early-career scholars in robotics and intelligent systems.
📚 Academic Citations and Research Output
While a detailed list of publications and citation metrics is not provided, Dr. Zhang’s long tenure and doctoral-level research suggest a substantial body of academic work. Increasing visibility through indexed journal publications, international conferences, and citations could further affirm his scholarly impact.
🛠️ Research Skills and Technical Expertise
Dr. Zhang demonstrates advanced skills in:
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Mechanism design and analysis
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Kinematic modeling
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Jacobian computation and optimization
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Robotic motion planning
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Intelligent control systems
His technical proficiency enables him to contribute to multidisciplinary projects across engineering and automation.
👨🏫 Teaching Experience
With more than 15 years of teaching, Dr. Zhang has educated countless undergraduate and postgraduate students in robotics, mechanical design, and intelligent control. His pedagogical approach combines theoretical rigor with practical application, equipping students with both analytical and design-oriented skills.
🏆 Awards and Honors
While no specific awards are listed, Dr. Zhang’s long-term academic appointments and his promotion to Associate Professor reflect recognition of his academic excellence and research contributions. Inclusion in internal or national honors (e.g., Best Educator, Outstanding Researcher) would be fitting based on his profile.
🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fan Zhang is building a legacy in robotics mechanism design and intelligent control research. Looking forward, expanding into interdisciplinary domains such as AI-assisted robotics, biomechanical applications, and wearable robotics systems could further elevate his academic impact. His commitment to innovation, education, and engineering excellence positions him as a valuable leader in future robotics advancements.
Top Publications
Analysis of the Rigid Foldability of Origami Patterns Based on Spatial Positions of Creases
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Authors: Wang, F., Zhang, F., Cui, G.
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Journal: ASME Journal of Mechanisms and Robotics
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Year: 2024
Kinematics and Force Transmission Analysis of a Decoupled Remote Center of Motion Mechanism Based on Intersecting Planes
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Authors: Wu, K., Zhang, F., Cui, G., et al.
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Journal: Journal of Mechanisms and Robotics
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Year: 2020
Generalized Mobility and Decoupling Conditions of Closed-Loop Mechanism
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Authors: Zhang, F., Cui, G., Zhang, D.
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Journal: Advances in Mechanism and Machine Science (Springer, Cham)
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Year: 2019
Type Synthesis of N-Parallelogram-Based Surgical Arm with Remote Actuated Configuration
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Authors: Zhang, F., Xue, Z., Hang, L., et al.
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Journal: Mechanism and Machine Science
- Intelligent control systems
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Year: 2017
Design and Analysis of a Totally Decoupled 3-DOF Spherical Parallel Manipulator
- Authors: Zhang, D., Zhang, F.
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Journal: Robotica
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Year: 2011