Research
Overview
My work combines robot design, mechanical intelligence, and paleobiology. I focus on developing a methodological framework that leverages fossil records and deep-time design insights to yield novel, better-performing robot designs. I also incorporate robotic theory and modeling to explore the locomotor capabilities of extinct species. My approach integrates bio-inspired robotics, gross anatomy, and macroevolutionary statistical methods to examine how spine design influences robots and led to new gait abilities in extinct animals, and how deep-time design space inspires novel robotic design.
Paleobio-inspired Robotics
Living systems across the planet provide a source of inspiration for Bio-inspired roboticists. However, this source is constrained to strategies that have only survived the most recent extinction. By applying a paleobiological framework paleobio-inspired roboticists can access biological design trends, and novel design insights are only available when considering extinct taxa.
A Task-to-Intelligence Mapping: When is embodied intelligence worth designing?
Spine dynamics in extinct taxa and robots
The spinal column is a fundamental aspect of the tetrapod bauplan. Their individual units, vertebrae, have changed drastically over time and are closely linked to locomotion strategies of early and ancient tetrapods. However, the relationship between morphological changes and shifts in spinal dynamics remains under-investigated. Moreover, the impact of spinal dynamics on system performance and potential trade-offs in spine design for robots is not yet fully understood. My current research applies classic vibration analysis to investigate mechanical changes in the spines of ancient animals, and, through rapid prototyping, I am also assessing the trade-offs between design and performance improvements in spined robots.
Early amphibians evolved distinct vertebrae for habitat invasions
Twisting spine or rigid torso: Exploring quadrupedal morphology via trajectory optimization
Physical Modeling in Experimental Paleontology
Virtual modeling has added a wealth of information to paleontology. Using state of the art 3D printers and materials I build physical models to aid our virtual understanding of these ancient taxa. By combining ancient vertebral forms and modern 3D printing capabilities physically re-animate the motion of early tetrapods.
Updating studies of past life and ancient ecologies using defossilized organismal proxies
Defossilization: A Review of 3D Printing in Experimental Paleontology