Physical Actuation
Physical actuation research focuses on developing and improving methods for controlling the movement and forces of robotic systems and other devices. Current efforts concentrate on optimizing actuation efficiency through techniques like parallel elasticity and tunable stiffness, employing machine learning for sensor compensation and control, and developing bio-inspired designs for enhanced dexterity and adaptability. These advancements are crucial for improving the performance and capabilities of robots in diverse applications, ranging from assistive devices and soft robotics to advanced manufacturing and space exploration.
Papers
Reacting to Contact: Transparency and Collision Reflex in Actuation
Ankit Bhatia, Matthew T. Mason, Aaron M. Johnson
What Happens When Pneu-Net Soft Robotic Actuators Get Fatigued?
Jacqueline Libby, Aniket A. Somwanshi, Federico Stancati, Gayatri Tyagi, Aadit Patel, Naigam Bhatt, JohnRoss Rizzo, S. Farokh Atashzar