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Subject offerings of new and developing areas of knowledge in mechanical engineering intended to augment the existing curriculum. See Class Schedule or departmental course information for topics and prerequisites. Course Information: 1 to 4 undergraduate hours. 1 to 4 graduate hours. May be repeated in the same or separate terms if topics vary to a maximum of 9 hours.

The field of soft robotics has progressed rapidly in recent years, offering innovative alternatives to conventional rigid robotic systems. This course will explore emerging paradigms in soft robotics, covering topics of design, fabrication, materials, mechanics, control methods, and applications. Students will develop a foundational understanding of commonly used sensing (e.g., electrical, optical, magnetic) and actuation (e.g., electrical, pneumatic, thermal) mechanisms, along with material selection and design principles grounded in classical mechanics. Applications discussed will include bio-inspired robots, wearable systems, surgical devices, implantable actuators, etc.