The Multiscale Systems Lab (MSL, also known as the Miraculously Superb Lab) studies multiscale systems and devices in both engineering and nature. Our research is centered on materials and mechanics, and integrates theory, numerical simulation, experiments, and artificial intelligence.
Students in MSL work on interdisciplinary problems involving materials, processing, robotics, design, and bioinspired systems. Our current research is organized around three major themes:
(1) Intelligent Processing and Advanced Functional Materials
We study nanostructured thin films, atmospheric-pressure plasma, laser processing, and surface science. A major focus is atmospheric-pressure plasma jet (APPJ) technology, which can be readily integrated with lasers, optical spectroscopy, and other diagnostic tools for surface modification and thin-film processing.
Our recent work combines optical emission spectroscopy, numerical modeling, and artificial intelligence for process monitoring, material-property prediction, and data-driven intelligent processing. We also investigate ZnO-based transparent conductive films, hybrid functional materials, and triboelectric energy-harvesting concepts.
(2) Intelligent Soft Robotics
Our soft-robotics research focuses on nonlinear mechanics, structural design, and intelligent actuation. Research topics include buckling-based soft joints, single-actuator and electromagnetically actuated in-pipe robots, bioinspired robots, and multi-degree-of-freedom soft robotic hands and grippers.
A central goal is to use the intrinsic mechanics of structures and materials to reduce actuation and control complexity. We combine mechanics with 3D printing, smart materials, sensing, and control to develop soft robotic systems that are simple, adaptable, and suitable for complex environments.
(3) Intelligent Design and Bioinspired Mechanics
Our research combines bioinspired mechanics with 4D printing, inverse design, and artificial intelligence. Bioinspired topics include eggshell mechanics and nesting behavior, samara-inspired spinning microfliers, and explosive seed-pod mechanics, with the goal of translating principles from nature into engineering design.
In intelligent design, we focus on AI-driven inverse design for shape-morphing structures and 4D printing. 4D-printed structures can actively change shape or function in response to heat, light, or other stimuli, overcoming limitations of conventional design and opening up a broader design space. By combining mechanics, finite-element simulation, machine learning, and deep generative models, we aim to develop predictable, controllable, and customizable shape-morphing systems for applications in soft robotics, biomedical devices, and adaptive systems.
Overall, MSL uses mechanics as a common foundation to connect materials, processing, design, robotics, and artificial intelligence, with the goal of developing new intelligent mechanical systems.