Neublox - Educational Pneumatic Circuit Building Blocks
University of California, San Diego
Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Sponsor
Neubo Inc. - Dr. Dylan Drotman
Team Members
Max Lee Aaron Marshall Wenhan Tang Nicholas F. Sudi
About Neubo Inc.
Dylan Drotman, our sponsor, delved into the field of air-powered walking robots during his PhD studies, sparking a profound interest in the potential applications of soft robotics. Eager to ignite the next generation of engineers, he founded Neubo Inc. and introduced the field of soft robotics through innovative teaching tools and engaging hands-on experiences.
Project Overview
Our concept revolves around creating a modular robot equipped with interchangeable logic gates, reminiscent of LEGO blocks. Through interactive play, children will be encouraged to explore and grasp fundamental concepts of logic. Each component will serve as a building block for understanding the functionality of logic in a fun and intuitive manner.
Develop Pneumatic logic gates.
Develop soft ‘structure’ and ‘action’ blocks that can be connected to the different logic gates
Design & build fluidic circuits to control the motion of a soft robot.
Develop educational content for logic gates and soft robotics.
Fig 1 : Deliverables Kit Components
Fig 2 : OR Gate Circuit Diagram using Project Kit's Components
Final Design
The final design is an educational kit intended to teach children about circuits and soft robotics through hands-on, interactive components. The kit includes various circuit elements such as logic gate blocks, which are the core of the system, featuring NOT gates that can be configured into NAND, NOR, AND, and XOR gates. These gates are crafted using acrylic layers and silicon gaskets, providing a clear view of their inner workings.
Resistor blocks are included to regulate airflow and control the pneumatic system’s speed, pressure, and force, offering insights into resistance principles.
Actuator arms in the kit allow children to design and assemble soft robots, promoting curiosity and problem-solving skills. These arms are based on an open-source design, utilizing 3D printing and silicone molds to create functional grippers. Additionally, the kit features a pneumatic toy excavator, demonstrating real-world applications of pneumatic systems and engaging children in learning about construction and engineering through play.
On-off button blocks are essential for controlling airflow within the system, designed with silicone molding and acrylic layers to integrate seamlessly with the logic gates. Connection blocks ensure airtight seals between components, using silicone’s flexibility for effective connections. The design emphasizes ease of assembly and educational value, making it an effective tool for teaching children about pneumatics, circuitry, and the principles of soft robotics through engaging and interactive experiences
Review the Final Design page for more detail!
Manufacturing Methods
3D / Resin Printing
Prototyping was facilitated using Prusa 3D printer for PLA printing and resin printer from UCSD Makerspace, ensuring comprehensive exploration and refinement of design iterations.
Acrylic Lamination
Acrylic and silicone sheets underwent precision laser cutting to fashion the layers required for both logic gates and resistors in this project.
Silicon Molding
Interactive components such as buttons, connector blocks, and logic gates were either coated or embedded with silicone, providing a soft tactile feel and ensuring safety and ease of interaction for children.
Final Presentation
Poster
