Professor-researcher Xiao Xiao from ESILV and IFT participated in the Dimensions of Motor Control Conference hosted by the Technical University of Munich (TUM). Her presentation focused on her experiences with the theremin, a unique musical instrument played without physical contact, highlighting its relevance to motor control studies.
Xiao also performed a live demonstration during the conference gala, showcasing the intricate manual dexterity required to master the instrument.
Exploring Motor Control at TUM
The Dimensions of Motor Control Conference, held at TUM’s Olympic Park Campus in March 2025, explores the fundamental aspects of motor control.
Motor control is essential to human development, from childhood through old age, and plays a critical role in health, athletic performance, and human-machine interaction. As intelligent machines and robots become more integrated into daily life, understanding how to control these technologies becomes increasingly significant.
The conference featured presentations, posters, product demonstrations, and a panel discussion. Internationally renowned experts shared insights into the latest research and applications, fostering new perspectives on motor control.
At the Dimensions of Motor Control Conference
Xiao Xiao’s Contribution to the Symposium
Professor Xiao Xiao participated in the symposium on manual dexterity, organized by Pavel Lindberg, a researcher at INSERM who co-supervises a PhD student with her. The symposium focused on “Manual dexterity technologies—from musical and martial arts expertise to post-stroke rehabilitation.”
Through her presentation and demonstration, Xiao illustrated how the theremin’s unique interface can provide insights into manual dexterity and motor control, particularly in rehabilitation contexts.
By combining musical expertise with technological insights, Professor Xiao Xiao’s participation underlined the innovative approaches to understanding motor control. Her theremin demonstration captivated the audience and exemplified the potential of integrating artistic practices into scientific research.
The theremin demonstration
TUM: A Hub for Cutting-Edge Research
As the only technical university in Germany to continuously hold the University of Excellence title since 2006, TUM stands out for its commitment to pioneering research. The Dimensions of Motor Control Conference exemplifies this dedication by fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange.
IFT: A Space for Collaboration and Experimentation
IFT is an open and collaborative space, welcoming those eager to prototype and experiment. Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, or company, the lab fosters multidisciplinary projects spanning robotics, environmental preservation, new transportation methods, space exploration, and artificial prosthetics.
At the core of IFT’s philosophy is the belief that technology should serve as a unifying force, creating an inclusive, sustainable world where everyone has a role. Community members engage with next-generation technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, 3D/4D printing, and Skin Interfaces, while also exploring industrialization processes.
IFT embodies the values of knowledge-sharing, mutual support, and responsible innovation by bringing together passionate makers, students, and mentors. With the arrival of the Formlabs Fuse, the possibilities for design and creation have never been greater!
Learn more about ESILV’s programmes and The Institute for Future Technologies