Research Mentor
Research Mentor
Chulho Yang, Ph.D., Professor
Office: 570A Engineering North
Phone: 405-744-3033
Email: chulho.yang@okstate.edu
Research Problem and Objectives
Research Problem and Objectives
Soft robotics is an emerging field focused on designing and developing robots constructed from highly flexible materials. Unlike traditional rigid robots, soft robots are engineered to replicate the natural flexibility and dexterity of the human body, enabling adaptive and gentle interactions with objects and environments. These robots are typically made from materials such as silicone rubber or elastomers, allowing them to bend, stretch, and conform to various shapes. This adaptability makes them particularly suited for delicate tasks like handling fragile objects, performing surgical procedures, or safely interacting with humans in collaborative settings.
The functionality of soft robots is enhanced by integrating advanced technologies, such as pneumatic or hydraulic actuators and sophisticated sensors, which enable precise control and tactile feedback. These innovations are expanding the potential applications of soft robotics in areas like healthcare, robotics, and human-robot interaction.
The successful design of soft robots relies on selecting appropriate materials and structural configurations. At the REU site, students will contribute to this field by designing and optimizing auxetic material shapes, developing sensing and actuation mechanisms, and conducting simulations, tests, and analyses to advance the capabilities of soft robotics.
Student Research Activities
Student Research Activities
Design, test, and analysis of auxetic materials for protection pads and soft robots
Design, test, and analysis of auxetic materials for protection pads and soft robots
In this project, undergraduate students will investigate the following key research questions:
Can individual and/or combined auxetic structures be designed to achieve specific amounts and shapes of deformation?
Can these auxetic structures be integrated into soft robots as sensors and/or actuators to provide feedback on touch, pressure, and deformation, and generate the necessary forces to drive robotic motion?
The REU students will engage in the following activities:
Design Exploration: Investigating various auxetic structures and materials to achieve targeted high-deformation properties.
Prototype Development: Utilizing 3D printing techniques to fabricate prototypes.
Property Evaluation: Experimentally assessing the mechanical and electrical properties of auxetic structures.
Behavioral Analysis: Using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks or CATIA) and Finite Element Analysis (e.g., ANSYS) to study the mechanical behavior of auxetic materials.
Data Analysis: Analyzing simulation and experimental results to draw meaningful conclusions.
Research Dissemination: Presenting findings through oral presentations and written reports.
The project aims to achieve the following outcomes:
Identifying the optimal combination of structures and materials to achieve unique structural properties, such as stiffness, Poisson's ratio, and mechanical behavior.
Developing an effective sensing and actuation mechanism for advancing soft robotic systems.
Application of auxetic materal for SMAPP and soft robotics.
Auxetic material structure
Required qualifications and skills
Required qualifications and skills
Undergraduate standing (at least left with one semester for graduation)
Mechanical engineering/Mechanical engineering technology majors
Solid works/Catia/CAD design
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