53-398 IDeATE Special Topics
6 units, Carnegie Mellon University
Soft robotics is an emerging discipline centered on actuated devices constructed from compliant materials. In this course, students will survey the state of this emerging research then design and fabricate experimental soft systems and kinetic sculptures. Students will be guided through literature search and technical paper analysis to identify opportunities and techniques. The textual study spans contemporary robotics and arts literature. The project component will be researchfocused and attempt novel fabrication and design techniques. It will center on fabricating kinetic sculptures with actuators and sensors using silicone rubber cast into 3Dprinted and lasercut molds. The project sequence will culminate in the collaborative design of soft robotic systems which match technical innovation with a human need or artistic expression. This course is designated IDeATe Special Topics to indicate it is a new or onetime collaborative course on a particular theme. It will satisfy minor requirements for IDeATe Soft Technologies or IDeATe Physical Computing.
Prerequisites: none listed
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