This summer we have several lab projects on sensors and actuators made from soft, flexible materials.
Compliant microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)
Above: our simulation of a 2 layer plank heated at one end. This simulation connects to a couple of collaborations with other groups. Bending MEMS are being investigated for microrobots and as grippers that stick semiconductor devices such as our power-tapping diode arrays onto soft, flexible materials. Sometimes the materials are heated directly, other times we apply optically absorbent materials such as gold nanoplates to transform laser light into the heat that makes the devices change shape.
Stretchable optical fibers:
We’re working to make our stretchable optical fibers sense pressure and spatial signals. Also, making some components that will improve the connection between soft, squishy fibers and circuit boards.
Membrane-based sensors and actuators:
We’re using a thin membrane as a site for enzyme-based chemical reactor in collaboration with research groups that design enzymes. Other kinds of membranes in the lab work as pumps. One thing our group focuses on this summer is how to integrate these soft materials with the electrodes and fluidic channels that make them work in applications.
Embroidered electromagnetic actuators:
A couple of students are taking the fabric linear motor and improving its force output, combining theory and simulation to boost its mechanical power. We’re looking at some polymer-based actuator fibers too.