HCI PhD Proposal: Jesse Gonzalez
When
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Description
Room-Scale Robotic Surfaces
Jesse T. Gonzalez
HCII PhD Thesis Proposal
Date: Dec. 9, 2024
Time: 2:00 pm (ET)
Location: GHC 6115
Committee Members:
Scott Hudson, Carnegie Mellon University
Alexandra Ion, Carnegie Mellon University
Nikolas Martelaro, Carnegie Mellon University
Nadya Peek, University of Washington
Abstract:
What might our surroundings look like, in a world of ubiquitous robots? This proposal reimagines the distinction between robots and spaces, introducing an architectural integration paradigm where robotic systems become one with our built environment. Rather than existing as distinct entities, these shape-changing surfaces can be integrated into walls and floors, enabling environmental adaptations in response to contextual requirements. Critically, while prior work has demonstrated the promise of such dynamic systems, pre-existing strategies for fabrication and actuation often fall short when it comes to constructing shape-changing interfaces that span larger areas.
This research addresses three fundamental challenges in realizing room-scale robotic surfaces: the development of scalable materials and fabrication methodologies, the implementation of natural human-surface interaction paradigms, and the engineering of large-scale shape-transformation mechanisms. Specifically, I introduce: (1) a technique for creating “flat-fabricated” electro-mechanical components via a PCB fabrication pipeline; (2) a geometric state estimation system that enables surfaces to sense and reconstruct their own shape during human interaction; and (3) a constraint-driven actuation approach that achieves robust transformations with minimal power requirements, by using lightweight toggles rather than direct actuation. I also discuss the implications for human-centered design of adaptive environments, and conclude with my ongoing work on natural interaction methods for these novel architectural elements.