Islynd Warren
Research Mentor: Kenn Oldham
Mentor Department: Mechanical Engineering, Engineering
Author(s): Islynd Warren, Kenn Oldham, PhD
Session: Session 7 (4:00 PM – 4:50 PM)
Presentation Type: Poster 42
Abstract
Designing microrobot appendages that achieve precise and reliable motion at small scales remains a key challenge, particularly in optimizing piezoelectric actuator bending. Addressing this limitation is important for improving the performance and controllability of microrobotic systems. We adapted appendage designs for microfabrication and performed calculations to model how the actuators bend and to help improve the designs. The fabricated structures were tested using an XZ laser sensor to measure their curvature. We also applied heat to observe how it affects the bending of the microrobot legs. In addition, we analyzed vibratory and transient motion using laser and image-based measurement methods. These methods are expected to show how actuator design and different inputs, like heat and vibration, affect bending behavior. The results will help us better understand how these actuators move and respond under different conditions. This work will support the development of more efficient and controllable microrobotic systems.
