Optoelectronic Sensing:

Soft optoelectronic sensing operates by transmitting a light signal through a soft, transparent core. When physical deformation is applied to the core, the light intensity changes. This variation in light intensity is then detected and used for precise measurements.

One area of our research focuses on utilizing optoelectronic sensing to measure the deformation of soft materials. We are exploring the application of this technology in various fields, including robotic grippers, actuators, and flexible joints.

Hybrid Robots:

Traditionally, robots are constructed with rigid elements and structures, resulting in a consistent dynamic model and simplified control. However, despite integrated safety features, these robots can become hazardous during physical interactions with humans, especially in the event of algorithm failures. One of our primary goals is to develop hybrid robots by integrating soft materials, actuators, and sensors with conventional rigid structures. This approach aims to create robots that are both compliant and precise in their control.

We present one of our first hybrid robots, which features articulated segments combined with miniature sensors for feedback control. A key advantage of this robot is its ease of control, achieved through the integration of sensors in the joints, allowing for precise measurement of joint positions.

Our objective is to further this research towards fully autonomous hybrid robots capable of performing tasks on par with conventional robots, while also offering enhanced safety.