Introduction to the Special Issue: Mathematics in Robot Control for Theoretical and Applied Problems

Technological development has not only boosted the use of mechanical systems for industrial uses but above all has made it possible for them to be used in areas and sectors unimaginable until a few years ago. Mechatronics is the neologism which now indicates in general modern robotic systems which are to be equipped with sophisticated electronic control devices. Such devices are capable of helping systems to achieve high performance and allowing their use and disparate aspects of our daily life. It is a synergy set which can radically change some aspects of the production world. A growing interest toward robots, a special class of mechanical systems, as well as fear and perplexity in relation to the impact that these systems have in the world of productivity, and then ultimately their social impact, has be witnessed in recent years. Future robotics represent a tremendous challenge in the field of mathematics because of the central role their control plays in the context of this field. In fact, robot control is one of the most important and challenging topics for mathematicians, engineers, physicians, and practitioners. Mathematical issues are the kernel of the design of control of movements and performance of robots. This Special Issue aims to collect the latest advancements of mathematical methods for solving not only theoretical but also applied problems of classical and also modern robot structures, such as robotic manipulators, walking robots, flexible robots, haptic robots, and any kind of old and new mechanisms with all possible tasks, in grasp, manipulation, and motion for any kind of their possible issues and applications. Advances in robot control, tackling theoretical complexity as well as practical applications, have been given a considerable boost by the use of mathematical methodologies. The Special Issue titled "Mathematics in Robot Control for Theoretical and Applied Problems" where researchers share their discoveries summarizes the latest results of the application of mathematical insights in robotic field.