At the hypersmart matter group, we work at the intersection between mechanics and information. We pursue three goals: (1) To invent new technologies that compute in a more economic, green and user-friendly way [high battery duration, low weight]. (2) To understand fundamental limits on the information-processing capabilities of physical systems. (3) To apply computer science methods and concepts to mechanical engineering problems, from using finite-state machines to describe structural dynamics, to building ‘compilers’ that design soft robots by translating mechanical source code into robotic geometries. We reach this goal by using a combination of numerical simulations (Finite element method, stochastic differential equations), algorithmic optimisation, characterisation methods (laser vibrometry, digital image correlation), fundamental physics (nonlinear dynamics, stochastic thermodynamics) and cleanroom fabrication techniques.
Modern machines are capable of constantly monitoring their environment, and …
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