Empathize
Students will gather insights by watching scenes from Big Hero Six, researching real-world applications of soft robotics, and discussing potential user needs and practical uses in different environments, setting the stage for their project work.
Days 1 - 2
Soft Robotics User Immersion
Launch 60m
Define
Students will collaborate to synthesize their research findings into a clear and actionable problem statement that addresses the essential question of how soft robotics can improve lives, preparing for the next phase of ideation and design.
Days 3 - 4
Define Soft Robotics Problem
Deliverable 90m
Ideate
Students will brainstorm and sketch multiple innovative designs for a soft robotic finger, considering different materials and mechanisms, while working collaboratively to explore creative solutions that integrate engineering, math, and science concepts.
Days 5 - 6
Empathy-Driven Concepts
Deliverable 90m
Prototype
Students will collaboratively build and test soft robotic finger prototypes using silicone, fabric, and syringe mechanisms, iteratively refining their designs through peer critiques and evaluations to optimize functionality for real-world applications.
Days 7 - 9
Feedback-Driven Testing Protocol
Deliverable 90m
Test/Present
Students will test the functionality of their soft robot fingers by completing a series of tasks, refine their designs based on their tests, and present their final prototypes and learning outcomes to a panel of experts including a prosthetic company and a doctor, while reflecting on how their projects integrate with engineering, math, and science principles.
Days 10 - 12
Prototype Test Sprint
Deliverable 90m