Xin Li

Project

SNAPVALVE – Soft Snap-Through Electromechanical Valves for Autonomous Soft Machines
The goal of my research is to design a soft electromechanical valve that can be integrated into soft actuators, thus freeing soft machines from the bulky and externally mounted traditional mechanical valves. This integration not only embodies true "softness" but also reduces the overall volume of the actuators and enhances their practicality. My research plan includes three key stages:

1. Designing soft electromechanical valves with liquid gallium channels (soft conductive coils).
2. Integrating these valves into snapping soft actuators to amplify their stroke.
3. Creating demonstrators designed for these soft actuators to realize applications.

With this innovative approach, we aim to transform the usability and functionality of soft machines, making them more integrated and efficient.

First supervisor

Jun.-Prof. Dr. Edoardo Milana