The FREE (Functional Robotics for Every Environment) Lab seeks to actualize robots that are capable of deftly and safely operating in real-world unstructured environments. Our research draws on tools and concepts from mechanics to understand the relationships between structure, force and motion, control theory to analyze and influence the behavior of dynamical systems, optimization to make decisions that balance goals and tradeoffs, and machine learning to extract useful information from data. Our research efforts combine modeling, design, and control, and can broadly be divided into the following three thrusts:
Current Opportunites
Actuated Scale on Pouch Motor
Description: The project seeks to develop a structural layer that attaches to an existing type of actuated pouch motor skin, like how animal scales attach to skins, to achieve functions beyond just actuation, such as increasing stiffness to act as structural support. The project aims to add bio-inspired components so applications beyond just structural support that mimic protective, adaptive, and tunable mechanical behaviors found in natural scale systems.
Desired skills: 1. Strong CAD skills (preferrably in onshape) 2. Strong hands-on skills and creativity - 3D printing (FDM & Resin) - Fabrication 3. Matlab/Modeling 4. Ansys (preferrable) 5. Understanding of material properties
Desired start date: As soon as possible
Hours: 10 hours for during semester, more than 20 hours over summer
Compensation: Course credit (ME 490/590) or voluntary
Application deadline: 4/1/26
For questions, contact Richard Li (richieli@umich.edu)
APPLY HERE
Soft Pneumatic Wearable Rehabilitation Device for Shoulder and Bicep Rehabilitation
Description: This project focuses on advancing a novel sheet-based pneumatically actuated pouch motor material, developed in the FREE Lab, into a functional soft wearable device for shoulder and biceps rehabilitation. The material can be cut to any size and configured as a wearable assistive garment that provides passive force upon inflation. The goal of this project is to instrument the device with pressure sensing and closed-loop control, characterize its force and range-of-motion output, and prepare it for human subject testing by designing and conducting a feasibility study on healthy adults. The summer research assistant will contribute to hardware integration, data collection, experimental design, and IRB protocol support, with the broader aim of publishing results in a peer-reviewed journal on soft robotic rehabilitation devices.
Desired skills: Python programming (required); microcontroller or embedded systems experience (Raspberry Pi or Arduino preferred); basic electronics and sensor integration (I2C, GPIO, analog signals); mechanical or biomedical engineering background; interest in soft robotics, wearable devices, or rehabilitation engineering; familiarity with data acquisition and experimental methods; experience with pneumatic or fluid power systems (a plus); prior coursework in biomechanics or controls (beneficial); strong attention to safety protocols; ability to work independently and contribute to a peer-reviewed publication
Desired start date: ASAP through Summer 2026
Hours: 30-40 hours/week (full-time summer commitment)
Compensation: Course credit (ME 490/590) or voluntary
Application deadline: 4/1/26
For questions, contact Richard Li (richieli@umich.edu)
APPLY HERE
