Explore the innovative projects created by students during the Fall 2024 semester in ME-0193 Printable Robotics. Each project showcases creativity, technical skills, and a deep understanding of 3D-printed soft robotics.
Jellibot
Description:
Jellibot addresses ocean pollution by mimicking jellyfish movement to clean hard-to-reach underwater areas. Using FDM-printed bending actuators, it removes visible plastic waste with cost-effective, flexible robotics. Future plans aim to enhance thrust, incorporate water actuation, and add sensing for full ocean cleanup.
ActuAid
Description:
ActuAid addresses hand injuries, 25% of sports-related cases, with a 3D-printed fluidic actuator glove for affordable, customizable rehabilitation. Iterative design improved usability, showcasing soft robotics’ potential for accessible therapy.
SlitherSense
Description:
SlitherSense is a snake-inspired robot designed for multidirectional movement and adaptability on various terrains. The team iteratively developed quadruple-bend actuators using 40A pellet filament for enhanced flexibility at lower pressures. Despite challenges like print issues and solenoid inefficiencies, the final design navigates efficiently, with future plans to add sensors, improved positioning, and mobility features for expanded functionality.
Coffee Cherry Collector
Description:
This project addresses the challenges of coffee cherry harvesting by developing a pneumatically powered, 3D-printed device with a linear extension arm and gripping actuator. The modular gripper securely holds cherries without damage, while the linear actuator extends to reach high branches. The design reduces physical strain, increases harvesting efficiency, and minimizes plant damage compared to traditional methods. Future improvements aim to enhance functionality and ease of testing.
Underwater Coral Restoration Bot
Description:
The UnderCoral Restoration Bot is an underwater robot designed to monitor and support coral restoration without disturbing marine life. Using fluidic actuation for propulsion, it eliminates the need for propellers and achieves tethered motion with a flexible TPU and acrylic structure. Future goals include untethered operation and integrated control systems to provide a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution for coral reef research and restoration.
Fluidically Actuated Aerodynamic Surface Technology (FAAST)
Description:
Fluidically Actuated Aerodynamic Surface Technology (FAAST) develops a camber-morphing airfoil using 3D-printed fluidic actuators attached to a rigid airfoil skin. This innovative design allows symmetrical morphing for improved aerodynamic and hydrodynamic efficiency in robots and solar cars, reducing energy consumption during crosswind or current operations. Through iterative design, the team optimized actuator performance and material integration, balancing flexibility and stiffness for effective motion.
Clamity, the Clambot
Description:
Clamity, the Clambot, is a bio-inspired underwater robot that mimics clam movement for non-invasive locomotion. Using 3D-printed pneumatic actuators and a spring-loaded design, it achieves fast closing and slow opening to propel itself forward. Designed for underwater data collection and biomimetic exploration, the robot demonstrates potential for innovative locomotion systems in sensitive marine environments.
The Attritable Soft Robot for ERW Disposal
Description:
The Attritable Soft Robot for ERW Disposal is a low-cost, 3D-printed solution for safe landmine removal. Featuring soft fluidic actuators with omnidirectional leg movement, the robot adapts to rough terrain and demonstrates scalable gaits controlled by pneumatic systems. Its economical design, costing less than $100, offers a practical alternative to traditional high-risk methods, aiming to reduce casualties and enhance safety in post-conflict areas.
The Self Leveling Platform
Description:
The Self-Leveling Platform is a 3D-printed, pneumatically powered landing pad designed to stabilize drones on uneven terrain. Using linear actuators, an IMU sensor, and a microcontroller, the platform adjusts its tilt in real time, enhancing drone safety and reducing repair costs. This innovation improves drone deployment efficiency, especially in critical applications like search and rescue, agriculture, and military operations.
How to Explore More
Each project includes a downloadable presentation detailing the design, fabrication, and results, along with video demonstrations. For further information, contact the respective project teams or visit the Contact Page.