Soft robotics#

December 7th, 2021

Lily Chambers and Adriana Cabrera

Program Outline#

This class will focus in the study of a specific field in robotics, the soft robotics. Unlike rigid robots we are mostly used to, soft bodied robots have similarities and performance characteristics similar to living organisms or the human body. Soft-robotics are based in Bio-inspired design or biomimicry and have applications in wearables, rehabilitation prosthetics, surgical robots, rescuing and others. We will focus on the fabrication of soft actuators, sensors and grippers using novel materials, artificial muscles and performative locomotion design.

References#

Biomimicry
Locomotion
Pneumatics
Flexures
Molding and casting

Assignment#

Document the concept, sketches, references also to artistic and scientific publications
Make a soft robotic sample, develop the pattern for the Inflatable and draw a sketch of the air flow
Build a pneumatic wrist brace (basic level) or thermovynil sample
Build a Soft Gripper (intermediate level) or
Build and document a Pneumatic, digitally controlled system , electronics schematic, electronic control and code (advanced level)
Experiment with different materials, such as silicones, 3d printing, parchment paper, thermoadesive vynil, bioplastic , document your achievements and unexpected outcomes
Upload a small video of your inflatable working
EXTRA POINT Integrate it into a project

How will it be evaluated#

References : tutorial , links, inspiration
Design : sketch , 2D and 3D modeling, Parametric modeling and electronic skills, simulation
Fabrication : Capable of executing from file to production workflow, molding and casting, vinylcutting, laser cutting
Documentation : Anyone can go through the process and understand
Final outcome : Is the project assembled, functioning and complete
Originality - Aesthetics : Has the design been thought through and elaborated