Microscale force sensing for fast motions in biology and engineering
Abstract
Studies of small-scale robotic systems (< 1 g) typically characterize these systems using a wealth of kinematic data. However, a systemÕs kinematics is not sufficient to characterize these systems given that their dynamics and forces applied by or to these systems are often paramount toward understanding the systemÕs behavior. We continue to lack the ability to characterize small forces, especially in fast systems. The proposed microscale force sensing system (FemtoTools NMT-03) will fill this gap and support a variety of current and anticipated research projects. This system uses a 5-axis nanorobotics platform to measure forces and displacements from samples at frequencies up to 96 kHz (with resonant frequencies on the order of 36 kHz). Force measurements can range from 50 nN to 200 mN, and displacement resolution is 5 nm. Compact hardware and modular software facilitates the integration and synchronization of additional measurements such as those from high speed microscopy. The primary project to be supported by the proposed equipment is an ARO-sponsored MURI on bio-inspired impulsive systems. For this project, we are interested in using the proposed force sensing system to facilitate the measurement of force-velocity characteristics in synthetic and biological organisms and their components (e.g. springs and latches). The proposed system will also be used to support numerous other currently funded and proposed research activities in small-scale legged locomotion, bio-inspired mechanosensing, and 3D microsystems, as well as educational activities in courses such as Micro/Nano Robotics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 20, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1910230
Entities
People
- Sarah Bergbreiter
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- United States Army