BRITE Relaunch: AI-Based Modeling and Control of 3D/4D Printed Soft, Fiber-Reinforced Actuators

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $596,777 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This BRITE Relaunch award supports research that enables the manufacturing, modeling, and control of fiber-reinforced actuators leveraging advances in additive manufacturing and artificial intelligence, thereby promoting the progress of science, and advancing prosperity and welfare. Fiber-reinforced actuators are common in soft robotics since they closely mimic biological muscles. One challenge with fiber-reinforced actuators is that significant variability can exist between actuators if manufacturing methods are not precisely controlled. Additionally, the actuators displace nonlinearly and are difficult to control. This project will solve this challenge by utilizing 3D/4D printing, in which 3D structures are printed with electronic capabilities that allow them to sense physical phenomena, to repeatedly fabricate, characterize, and test fiber-reinforced actuators. Data obtained will inform physics-informed artificial intelligence models, which will then be integrated with advanced control strategies to enable more precise control of soft robotic actuators. The methods developed could address a fundamental gap in soft robotics related to control for applications ranging from biomedical to space systems. In addition, a multifaceted approach to generating excitement about STEM disciplines is planned that includes K-12 outreach activities, undergraduate research and teaching experiences, and development of a freely available, online workshop curriculum. The field of soft robot

Key facts

NSF award ID
2527418
Awardee
Rochester Institute of Tech (NY)
SAM.gov UEI
J6TWTRKC1X14
PI
Kathleen Lamkin-Kennard
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
CONTROL SYSTEMS, Dynamical systems, Artificial Intelligence (AI), ROBOTICS, Manufacturing, WOMEN, MINORITY, DISABLED, NEC
Estimated total
$596,777
Funds obligated
$596,777
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028