From Space to Robotics: Narcís’ Journey with PAL Robotics

Humans of PAL Robotics: Narcís Miguel Baños

Meet Narcís Miguel

Meet Narcís Miguel, the Head of Mobile Interaction at PAL Robotics, whose path to robotics is anything but ordinary. With a foundation in pure mathematics and orbital dynamics and a career rooted in optimizing spacecraft trajectories, he made the leap from mapping the stars to driving innovation in the robotics industry.

Since joining our team, Narcís has advanced to lead the Mobile Manipulation Business Unit, where his technical expertise and strategic vision have been key to the successful development of the TIAGo Pro robot. This is the story of a leader who thrives on charting a course for the future of the industry.

What initially attracted you to the field of robotics, and what made you decide to join PAL Robotics?

The problems addressed in robotics are closely tied to my previous expertise in mathematics and orbital dynamics. Before joining PAL, I was a postdoctoral researcher at the Polytechnic University of Milan, working on optimal trajectories for spacecraft—designing orbits that minimize fuel consumption and time. The mathematical principles I applied there are remarkably similar to those used in robotics, particularly in trajectory optimization.

On top of that, I had a close friend already working at PAL Robotics, and he encouraged me to join. It felt like the right move, combining my passion for problem-solving with the opportunity to work in a field that blends research with tangible, impactful results.

What were your initial roles and responsibilities?

I started my work in the company as part of the locomotion and control team. My role focused on the control aspects of robots—essentially solving core nonlinear equations that map joint and actuator space. Whether it’s a satellite or a robot, the underlying equations are surprisingly similar, though robots are far more complex because the equations are higher dimensional. Moreover, control has to be combined with operating in dynamic, non-structured environments.

Over time, my responsibilities expanded, and I started contributing to the broader development of platforms, particularly TIAGo.

PAL Robotics' Mobile Manipulator robot TIAGo in the foreground in action


What was your first impression of PAL Robotics?

I was amazed by how seamlessly robotics was integrated into daily work here. People at PAL are so used to seeing robots move around that no one even flinches when a robot passes by! The level of comfort and trust in the technology was striking.

When I started looking deeper into the systems, I was impressed by the sheer complexity behind what appeared effortless. The amount of code and engineering required to make robots navigate autonomously was mind-blowing.

Within three years after joining the company, you became the Manager of the Mobile Manipulation Business Unit. You had a key role in the release of TIAGo Pro. What has been the key to your success as a professional and with TIAGo Pro?

The key to both my personal growth and the success of TIAGo Pro lies in PAL Robotics’ collaborative and flexible approach. Problems here are treated in a generalized way, making solutions transferable across platforms. My technical knowledge from control systems translated well to mobile interaction robots like TIAGo, enabling me to contribute effectively.

My research background also gave me a broad perspective. I’m comfortable working with academic papers, attending conferences, and understanding the needs of research clients. This combination of technical expertise and a strong connection to the research community allowed me to align the development of TIAGo Pro with cutting-edge requirements for mobile interaction.

PAL Robotics' team at ICRA 2023

Another major factor was the freedom I had to take on responsibilities in European projects. Writing proposals, coordinating efforts, and aligning projects with our goals have been crucial in shaping both the platform and my role here.

Where do you envision PAL Robotics in the next 20 years?

My vision is to see a clear distinction between our research-focused products and industrial solutions. Research will always be a core part of what we do because it informs innovation and future developments. However, I would love to see industrial solutions like TIAGo Pro being applied to specific industries where its capabilities—mobility, manipulation, and interaction—can address different challenges.

For me, the ideal scenario is one where we maintain strong ties with the research community while establishing a robust line of industrial products that solve specific, practical problems.

To which of previous and/or current PAL Robotics robots do you relate the most?

I have a special connection to Kangaroo because I worked on its development during the pandemic. Most of the work I did from home  involved solutions of nonlinear problems  that run always in the robot and that have to be very efficiently solved, tasks I enjoy. Seeing Kangaroo in action today always reminds me of those challenging but rewarding days.

That said, TIAGo Pro is my favorite. While I didn’t focus on any one area of its development, I was involved in nearly every aspect, and it holds a special place in my heart as a symbol of collective effort and innovation.

PAL Robotics TIAGo Pro edition team to create a mobile interaction robot

Narcís’ journey shows how different skills and experiences can bring fresh ideas to robotics. From designing space orbits to leading the way in mobile interaction robots, he’s made a big impact at PAL Robotics. As the company keeps growing, it’s people like Narcís who make sure every new step counts. Stay tuned for more stories about the people shaping the future of robotics here at PAL Robotics.




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