ME303/ MATSCI333: Soft Composites and Soft Robotics
Fundamentals of soft materials and soft composites in the aspects of mechanical characterization, polymer physics, mechanics, finite-element-analysis of large deformation, and advanced material fabrication including different 3D printing technologies. Stimuli-responsive soft composites for soft robotics and shape-morphing structures will be introduced. Examples such as material systems that respond to magnetic field, electrical field, pneumatic pressure, light, and heat will be discussed. At the end of the class, students will understand the characterization of soft materials and flexible structures, how to simulate soft actuators through ABAQUS FEA, and have a solid understanding of design strategies of functional soft composites and soft robots. This course is offered in the Fall and Spring quarters.
Starting in Fall 2024, final projects are done in a poster format. Previous posters are here.
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