Research
Robots need both capable bodies and brains.
Due to uncertainty and extreme resilience requirements for many real-world applications, solving system-level challenges requires blurring the distinction between ‘hardware and software.’ We merge them together within a co-designed and co-optimized solution.
Research focuses on the co-design of complementary aspects of “intelligence” in robotic systems. This page provides example projects.
Versatile grasping and manipulation for demanding tasks
The Smart Suction Cup (SSC) utilizes a unique cup morphology for grasping previously un-graspable surfaces. Potential applications: Autonomous manipulation and grasping for assembly, logistics.
Mobility design and autonomy for complex environments
The design of a system capable of in-air-docking with new battery packs enables endless flight without sacrificing agility. Potential applications: Package delivery, In the field deployment.
Morphing materials and structures for mechanical intelligence
A wooden composite material is encoded with moisture activated actuation, generating burrowing of the payload when it rains. Potential applications: Nature management, Personal wearables.
Smart data-driven design of soft robots and architected materials
A rotor blade achieves both energy efficiency (cicada) and silent (owl) flight. Deep learning methods augment this design discovery process. Potential applications: Flight around people.
Generative AI assists human designers
Human-Gen AI teams work to co-design systems together, a process influences by the user’s trust and prior experience with such advising tools. Potential applications: wide ranging.