We have a vacancy for a post-doctoral researcher, with a background in computer science and coding, for projects in the field of soft robotic haptic wearable applications at the Human Interactive Materials (HIM) group in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), The Netherlands.
Research background We are a multidisciplinary research group, developing responsive materials that address the continuously advancing needs in human-machine communication, specialized medicine and miniaturized mechanics. More information can be found at
www.danqingliu.nl.
We perform research on stimuli-responsive liquid crystal polymers to achieve advanced haptic functions. We envision applying these materials within a wearable to feel, sense, behave and act as an intelligent device. Hence, we use the electrical-responsivity of our materials. Yet, our materials and devices must be made compatible with the digital electronic infrastructure for conventional devices.
Project description To achieve this, we must create a software and electronic systems to drive our materials and derived devices in a manner that is compatible with popular devices and applications, such as Google maps and virtual reality games. The types of devices include haptic wearables, displays and sensors. Yet, as the HIM group develops novel devices and methods, the nature and type of devices to introduce to the digital electronic framework will increase.
For our liquid crystal polymer haptic wearable devices, we envision everyday applications, such as Google Maps, being integrated to induce the generation of haptic cues for navigation through our device. This will be further developed for integration with more advanced application, for instance, for haptic feedback of interactions in videos games or the general user-interface of virtual reality headsets. This will require creative coding to translate the haptic generation of our materials to haptic feedback that will be triggered upon selected events or cues within the virtual space. Hence, your work will drive the functionalization of our liquid crystal polymer devices for use together with conventional devices.