Ernesto Gomez
Pronouns: he/him
Research Mentor(s): Abdon Pena-Francesch
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Materials Science and Engineering / Engineering
Program: CG
Session: Session 1 (9:00am – 9:50am)
Authors: Ernesto Gomez, Zane Zhang, Abdon Pena-Francesch
Abstract
The Bio-Inspired Materials laboratory works on projects revolving around magnetically actuated materials that have the ability to be used in robotics, biomedical applications (surgery, medication, etc.) and other fields. Testing of these materials requires specialized platforms with precise control systems along with an interactive interface that allows exposing the material to complex magnetic fields including spatially heterogenous and time-dependent dynamic magnetic fields. To create this magnetic fields, we chose to develop a 2D platform with the ability to create programmable the magnetic fields required for testing. Also, we needed a process to develop electromagnets with consistent and repeatable properties that would output the desired output. For this, we designed the magnetic actuation board. The board functions as an array of individually commanded electromagnets arranged to create an interactive magnetic field with the capability of dynamic manipulation through programmed sequences to create a desired magnetic fields. we can control the direction and intensity of each individual electromagnet. The individually addressable electromagnets that are part of the board were custom made with a 3D printed coil winding mechanism that produces solenoids with the specified properties. The board allows exposing the materials to different conditions. These, when applied, would have certain effects that will be studied and quantified. The board is adapted for specific applications such as the movement of small objects across the board, sequential patterns, controlled manipulation of different structures, microrobotic swarm patterns, and other applications for robotics or biomedics.
