Optimizing Smart Hydrogel Mechanics and Actuation through Advanced Design Techniques

• Project/Area Number: 25K07504
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 18010:Mechanics of materials and materials-related
• Research Institution: Shibaura Institute of Technology
• Principal Investigator: Ahmed Kumkum 芝浦工業大学, 工学部, 助教 (10861023)
• Project Period (FY): 2025-04-01 – 2028-03-31
• Project Status: Granted (Fiscal Year 2025)
• Budget Amount: ¥4,550,000 (Direct Cost: ¥3,500,000、Indirect Cost: ¥1,050,000); Fiscal Year 2027: ¥1,170,000 (Direct Cost: ¥900,000、Indirect Cost: ¥270,000); Fiscal Year 2026: ¥1,560,000 (Direct Cost: ¥1,200,000、Indirect Cost: ¥360,000); Fiscal Year 2025: ¥1,820,000 (Direct Cost: ¥1,400,000、Indirect Cost: ¥420,000)
• Keywords: Hydrogel / Polymer / Actuator / Smart / Design

Outline of Research at the Start

This research project aims to enhance hydrogel actuator development through various designing methods such as 3D printed mold, laser cutting and direct 3D printing setup. The project will explore various actuator designs, incorporating different shapes, sizes, and internal structures. Comprehensive testing will evaluate the actuators' mechanical properties, swelling properties, actuation speed, responsiveness, and sensing capabilities, with data analysis focusing on how design parameters influence performance.