3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

This is a course on the mechanics of locomotion in animals and machines (particularly bio-inspired and biomimetic robots). Locomotion emerges from effective physical interaction of an animal or a machine with the surrounding environment; therefore, the ability to generate appropriate forces (besides appropriate sensing and control) is essential to successful locomotion. From a mechanics point of view, we will discuss why animals move amazingly well in almost any environment, how they have inspired some highly successful machines, and yet why the majority of robots still struggle in environments that are only modestly complex and how they may be improved by better understanding the mechanics of locomotion. Primary focus will be on terrestrial locomotion, but aerial and aquatic locomotion will be also discussed, all with numerous examples. General principles and integration of knowledge from engineering, biology, and physics will be emphasized. Students from ME and other departments are welcome. A strong understanding of Newtonian mechanics is required. Visit http://li.me.jhu.edu/teaching for more information. Recommended Course Background: B+ or higher in EN.530.202 Dynamics or EN.560.202 Dynamics