NOAA Science Seminar Series
Title: Transforming underwater sampling and manipulation with soft roboticsNOAA Central Library Seminars
Presenter: Stephen Licht (Associate Professor) and Brennan Phillips (Assistant Professor, University of Rhode Island Ocean Engineering).
Sponsors: NOAA Ocean Exploration and NOAA Central Library.
Seminar Contacts: Liang Wu (liang.wu@noaa.gov), Chris Beaverson (chris.beaverson@noaa.gov) and NOAA Central Library Seminars (library.seminars@noaa.gov)
Remote access: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/36436040524931854
Accessibility: Captions are added to the recordings of presentations once uploaded to the NOAA Central Library YouTube Channel. Sign language interpreting services and closed captioning are available, but need to be requested at least 5 days before the event.
Abstract: Soft robotic actuators and manipulator systems are an emerging technology uniquely suited for use underwater, where they can operate in neutral buoyancy. Soft robotic drive systems also draw significantly less power and produce less acoustic noise than conventional hydraulic systems, making them suitable for use on smaller deployment platforms such as inspection-class ROVs. This presentation will review progress in underwater soft robotic systems, and present applications of emerging technologies in shallow and deep-sea environments.
Keywords: Soft robotics, manipulation, sampling
Bios: Stephen Licht’s research group at the University of Rhode Island develops and deploys technologies for underwater, surface, and aerial platforms used in marine applications. His current work focuses on mechanical systems and control algorithms to enhance the capabilities of systems with low logistics footprints. Dr. Licht received a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Yale University, and a PhD in Mechanical and Oceanographic Engineering from the MIT/WHOI Joint Program. Prior to joining URI in 2013, Dr. Licht was a Principal Research Scientist with iRobot Corporation.
Brennan Phillips specializes in the development and application of novel instrumentation for oceanographic research. His current research topics include low-light imaging of deep-sea biology and bioluminescence, soft robotic manipulators, hydraulic systems, distributed sensing, and low-cost, lightweight methods for ocean exploration. Dr. Phillips received his BS in Ocean Engineering from URI, an MS in Oceanography from the University of Connecticut, and a PhD in Oceanography from URI/GSO.
Recordings: Recordings will be shared 24 hours after the event on the NOAA Central Library YouTube channel.
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{Stephen Licht, Associate Professor and Brennan Phillips, Assistant Professor, URI Ocean Engineering}
