Drawing from current examples of new technology and real ongoing or past research (i.e. official literature), students will seek to contextualize specific examples of fiction in terms of feasibility and fact. Through lectures and labs, this course will provide an overview of the following topics related to engineering and robotics: soft robotics actuator and system design, origami-inspired robotics, novel fabrication techniques (layer assembly), modular robotic systems, smart material actuators (Electrostatic/HASEL-type and Shape Memory Alloy), and embedded electronic circuits and controllers. Students will work in small groups on a final hands-on project to develop a working prototype mechatronic or robotic system inspired by their choice of 'fiction'. Permission of the Instructor required. (3.0 credit units).
Drawing from current examples of new technology and real ongoing or past research (i.e. official literature), students will seek to contextualize specific examples of fiction in terms of feasibility and fact. Through lectures and labs, this course will provide an overview of the following topics related to engineering and robotics: soft robotics actuator and system design, origami-inspired robotics, novel fabrication techniques (layer assembly), modular robotic systems, smart material actuators (Electrostatic/HASEL-type and Shape Memory Alloy), and embedded electronic circuits and controllers. Students will work in small groups on a final hands-on project to develop a working prototype mechatronic or robotic system inspired by their choice of 'fiction'. Permission of the Instructor required. (3.0 credit units).
