Tommaso Ranzani

Utilizing Magnetorheological Fluid and Jamming Materials in Stiffening Wearable Applications

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Thus far magnetorheological (MR) fluid and jamming materials have been used individually across a wide variety of applications, including in civil, industrial, military, and medical applications. This study aims to examine the results when these strategies are combined. Utilizing granular jamming materials in a variety of diameters (1/8″, 3/32″, and 1/16″) and MR fluid as the actuation method, the increase in stiffness when force is applied and a magnetic field is introduced will be examined. 

LABORATORY MENTOR
Leah Gaeta

RESEARCH GOALS
– Use a 3-point bend test
– Experimental validation of theoretical predictions

LEARNING GOALS
– Design and manufacturing of soft bioinspired robotic structures
– Experimental validation and characterization of prototypes
– Work in a team
– Work towards a scientific publication

Learn more about Assistant Professor Ranzani on his faculty page.