MICACT - MICroACTuators

This project is aimed at developing dielectric elastomer actuator as high-performance electromechanically active polymer transducers for a variety of electrically tuneable optical devices, including optical lenses with tuneable focus and systems with tuneable colour or infra-red signature for active camouflage.

Co-design of Hand Therapy Devices

Public Engagement - Bringing smart materials to the art and design community

With the project "PauseInMotion", Dr Carpi's group are aimed at bringing cutting-edge smart materials to the art and design community, providing an opportunity to understand these materials and their potential. This is achieved via an artistic installation based on a dielectric elastomer actuators that are used to build biomimetic robotic butterflies that mimic resting dynamics of migrating butterflies. The contrast between the realistic movement of the robotic butterflies and their plastic construction showcases the beauty and potential of smart materials, and the way that engineering research is inspired by – and evolves to imitate – nature.

PhD study in progress: Wearable soft tactile displays for virtual interactions with soft bodies

This work is aimed at developing wearable, soft, compact and lightweight tactile displays able to mechanically stimulate the fingertip of users, so as to simulate contact with soft bodies in virtual environments. The devices are made of dielectric elastomer actuators, as high-performance electromechanically active polymers, with a highly-innovative and unique configuration.