The “Soft Actuators and Sensors for Soft Interfaces” workshop was an exciting opportunity to delve into the world of soft robotics and sensors. Inspired by nature (especially creatures such as the octopus), or human skin, soft robots and sensors bring extreme mechanical flexibility together with highly integrated functionality and mobility.

Under the direction of two experts, students had real-world insight into these innovative new technologies. Rene Preuer, a PhD candidate in Technical Physics at the JKU, and a graduate student in Interface Culture at the University of Art and Design Linz, is working on soft actuators and ultra-soft sensors for impact detection and protection as part of his final thesis. Ingrid Graz, Associate Professor of Experimental Physics at the JKU's School of Education, has over 20 years of experience in developing ultra-flexible sensors and soft robotics. She is currently conducting research that focuses on integrating electronics into clothing.

Together with students enrolled in different majors, we spent a week exploring the foundations and applications behind soft robotics. We began by examining biology-inspired beginnings, design paradigms, and drive mechanisms. Following a technical introduction, we ventured into the hands-on side of things by working together to build soft robots and sensors. We created soft gripping elements out of liquid rubber and subsequently tested their actuation.

Students also created simple sensor circuits and tested them in combination with the soft grippers. By covering a wide range of subject areas and techniques, the students had an opportunity to experience the interdisciplinary field of soft robotics and sensors first-hand, hopefully acquiring new insight in the field and new skills.