Physics Colloquium, Bas Overvelde (AMOLF, Amsterdam): "Embedded control of soft robots"

Abstract:

Researchers have started to explore the use of compliance in the design of soft robotic devices, that have the potential to be more robust, adaptable, and safer for human interaction than traditional rigid robotics. State-of-the-art developments push these robotic systems towards applications such as soft rehabilitation and diagnostic devices, exoskeletons for gait assistance, grippers that can handle highly diverse objects, and electronics that can be embedded in the human body. Despite these exciting recent developments, due to their inherent non-linear response, current soft robotic systems are difficult to control. In this talk I will discuss efforts we are taking in my research group to place control and intelligence inside soft robots, using soft fluidic circuits and using decentralized learning.