CAREER: Optically Transparent Gripper for Microassembly

University Of Arizona, Tucson AZ

Investigators

Abstract

This Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) award provides funding for the development of a flexible and economical robotic system for micro-assembly. This research will explore the possibility of applying electrostatic forces to visually servoed micro-assembly, by developing an optically transparent electrostatic micro-gripper, integrated into an automated assembly cell. Characterization of the residual interfacial charge and dielectric breakdown of several high-dielectric-constant materials will be performed in order to optimize the operation of the gripper. A theoretical model for the trapped charge will also be developed and experimentally verified using an electric field scanning probe microscope (SPM). Using the SPM as a charge-writing tool, the results of this research will be extended to nano-assembly and fixturing of carbon nano-tubes and large molecules. If successful, the outcome of this research will lead to development of economical techniques for the automated manufacturing of complex micro-systems with heterogeneously manufactured components. It will also generate experimental and theoretical data on possible future assembly techniques for the nano-world, based on electric charge writing. The interdisciplinary nature of the outlined research will provide educational opportunities for senior-year undergraduate students through participation in component design and system integration. A graduate-level laboratory course on the application of electrostatic techniques in manufacturing and sensing at micro and nano-meter length scales will be also developed.