My research encompasses three primary areas: biomimetics, living matter and robotics, and manipulation and sensing. The core objective is to emulate the impressive dexterity and adaptability observed in living organisms, particularly model organisms like worms, plants, and starfish.
However, existing technology struggles to match nature's finesse, particularly concerning speed and form factor. To address this limitation and enable the application of robots in unstructured real-world scenarios, I propose a bio-hybrid approach. This involves integrating non-animal multicellular organisms like plants and fungi with synthetic structures, thereby enhancing the adaptability and sustainability of soft robots.
The third area of focus is soft manipulation and sensing, encompassing the development of manipulators and grasping technologies equipped with multifaceted sensing and distributed computation capabilities.
In essence, my research endeavors to tap into nature's wisdom and apply it to the realm of soft robotics. By exploring bio-hybrid systems, harnessing advanced feedback mechanisms, and embracing frugal innovation and agile 3D printing methodologies, my ultimate goal is to push the boundaries of what soft robotics can achieve. My aspiration is to develop practical solutions that have a tangible impact, particularly in critical domains like agriculture and healthcare.
My Approach
In my research, I take a multifaceted approach that combines various methodologies for effective results. Firstly, I emphasize frugal innovation, ensuring that our solutions are both technologically advanced and cost-effective, making them accessible to a wider audience.
Scalable 3D scanning and printing are critical aspects of our work, enabling the creation of intricate and customized designs. These technologies allow us to prototype and tailor our creations rapidly, which is especially valuable in fields like agriculture and healthcare.
Electrophysiology plays a key role in understanding the electrical activity of living organisms, particularly plants and fungi. This knowledge informs the development of our robots and sensors, enhancing their adaptability and responsiveness.
I also want to utilize simulations such as finite element analysis and multibody dynamics to optimize designs and assess performance. These simulations provide valuable insights, allowing us to refine our creations virtually before physical implementation.
I will employ agile 3D printing to quickly adapt our designs to emerging challenges and specific applications. By combining these methodologies, we aim to advance the capabilities of soft robotics and deliver innovative solutions with real-world relevance.
Collaborators
During my postdoctoral tenure, I had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse group of professors at Cornell University and other academic institutions. These collaborations were highly transdisciplinary, spanning a wide range of fields from robotics and mycology to neurobiology, plant science, and horticulture. Here are a few examples of my collaborative projects:
1. Robotic Soil Sampling: Collaborated with Professors Mike Gore and Taryn Bauerle from the Plant Science department.
2. Biohybrid Fungal Robot: Worked with Professor Kathie Hoge (Mycology Department) and Dr. Bruce Johnson (Neurobiology Department) to develop fungal robots. Also collaborated with Prof. Meredith Silberstein (MAE Department) on the development of biohybrid sensors using fungal mycelium for environmental and soil health monitoring as part of my ELMI fellowship.
3. Soft Robotic Scalable Phenotyping: Collaborated with Professor Abe Strook (Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering) and Girish Chowdhary (Agricultural and Biological Engineering) to develop a soft gripper for leaf phenotyping.
4. 3D Printed Soft Gripper for Fruit Harvesting: Collaborated with Prof. Marvin Pritts (Horticulture Department) to develop a soft gripper for picking field strawberries.
5. Electrophysiological Studies: Collaborated with Dr. Bruce Johnson (Neurobiology Department) on intracellular electrophysiology research in animal systems to understand their responses to environmental stimuli.
These collaborations have enriched my research experience and allowed me to contribute to various interdisciplinary projects at the intersection of robotics, biology, and environmental science.
Prof. Kathie Hodge
Associate Professor, CALS
Cornell University
Dr. Bruce Johnson
Senior Researcher & Lecturer, Neurobiology,
Cornell University
Prof. Mike Gore
Professor, CALS ,
Cornell University
Prof. Taryn Bauerle
Professor, CALS, Cornell University, USA
Prof. Abe Stroock
Professor, CBE,
Cornell University, USA
Prof Marvin Pritts
Professor, CALS,
Cornell University, USA
Prof. Meredith Silberstein
Associate Professor, MAE
Cornell University, USA
Prof. Girish Chowdhary
Associate Professor, ABE
university of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA
Prof. Amir Gut
Associate Professor, ME,
Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, IL
Dr. Thomas Wallin
Research Scientist,
Facebook Reality Lab, USA
Dr. Naveen K Uppalapati
Research Scientist, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, USA
Dr. Marija Popović
Junior Group Leader University of Bonn