Cuttlefish-inspired suction cup with artificial papillae for enhanced tactile sensor sensitivity
Project Description
Suction cups with integrated tactile sensors demonstrate great potential for the implementation of bioinspired tactile-based underwater manipulation strategies. However, the sensitivity of existing sensorized suction cups is limited under small external loads. In this project we take inspiration from the cuttlefish to design, manufacture and validate a suction cup with integrated highly sensitive tactile sensor. Cuttlefish suckers comprise many receptors for sensing. Moreover, there are many papillae covering its sucker rim. Previous studies have shown that the papillae structures can enhance the sensitivity of the sensors. Herein, we hypothesize that the papillae can also enhance the sensing sensitivity of the resistive sensor-integrated suction cup.
Supervisor
SCHARFF, Rob Bernardus Nicolaas
Quota
1
Course type
UROP1000
UROP1100
UROP2100
UROP3100
UROP3200
UROP4100
Applicant's Roles
We are looking for one student who can proficiently use CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) to design papillae-covered films and fabricate them using multi-material printing technology (PolyJet). Besides, we hope the student can join us to perform the FEM models to study the lever mechanism of papillae. If needed, we can teach the student simulation skills based on Abaqus software. Finally, we hope the student can join us in the experiments to verify the effectiveness of papillae on the sensing capability of resistive suction cups.
Applicant's Learning Objectives
- Use advanced FEM simulation software to study the deformation of soft bodies
- Use advanced additive manufacturing tools to fabricate bioinspired structures
- Design and perform experiments to validate the effectiveness of bioinspired structures
- Use advanced additive manufacturing tools to fabricate bioinspired structures
- Design and perform experiments to validate the effectiveness of bioinspired structures
Complexity of the project
Moderate