Development of Origami-Inspired Folding Microactuators

Research topic/area

Microsystem Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, Mechatronics, Actuator Technology, Cooperative Systems

Type of thesis

Bachelor / Master

Start time

01.03.2025

Application deadline

01.05.2025

Duration of the thesis

3-6 Months

Description

Within the framework of a Priority Program of the German Science Foundation (DFG), a novel concept of shape memory alloy (SMA) folding microactuators is developed following the concept of the ancient art of Origami. Thus, adaptive 3D microstructures can be generated by active folding miniature-scale rigid tiles out-of-plane to enable promising future applications in minimal-invasive surgery, micro-assembly, and micro-robotics.

As part of the student’s thesis, a demonstrator consisting of SMA folding microactuators with multiple tiles is to be developed, fabricated, and characterized thermally, electrically and mechanically. This research builds on existing know-how on device engineering and microfabrication technology of previous SMA microactuators developed at IMT-KIT. The focus of this work can be adapted to the student's abilities and interests.

The thesis can be written in German or English.

Potential focus topic(s):
• Electro-thermal optimization of Origami-inspired microactuators (Geometry studies, FEM multiphysics simulation)
• Microtechnology fabrication of Origami-inspired microactuators (IMT cleanroom technologies, Optical lithography, Two-Photon 3D lithography, Laser technology)
• Characterization of Origami-inspired microactuators (thermo-mechanical, electrical properties)

Requirement

Requirements for students

• Good knowledge in actuator technology, microfabrication technologies, CAD, FEM simulation is beneficial
• Ambitious, curious, good team player, able to work independently and self-motivated

Faculty departments

• Engineering sciences
  Electrical engineering & information technologies
  Mechanical engineering
  Material sciences & engineering
  Mechatronics & information technologies
  Mechanical Engineering
• Natural sciences and Technology
  Medical technology

Supervision

Title, first name, last name

M. Sc. Vincent Gottwald

Organizational unit

Institute of Microstructure Technology

Email address

vincent.gottwald@kit.edu

Link to personal homepage/personal page

Website

Application via email

Application documents

E-Mail Address for application
Senden Sie die oben genannten Bewerbungsunterlagen bitte per Mail an vincent.gottwald@kit.edu


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