Illinois Mobile App Master Calendar

*Presentation will be recorded.

Abstract: 

From woven structures that are both stiff and resilient, to multi-layer origami that deploys into functional shields, to kirigami skins that steer deformation and route vibration energy, my research shows how “crafted matter” can become practical engineering. I combine mechanics, fabrication, and design to uncover how topology and geometry control strength, deployability, and damage tolerance, and how we can translate those principles into functional metamaterial systems. Across experiments, reduced-order modeling, and design frameworks for modular assembly, I develop lightweight structures and materials that can be simultaneously load-bearing, flexible when needed, and robust to real-world use. As a mechanical engineer, materials scientist, and systems designer, my goal is to create human-centered flexible metamaterial technologies that improve how people move, work, and live—spanning applications from robotic textiles and wearable interfaces to deployable protection and adaptive structures.

Bio: 

Wayne Tu is a final-year PhD candidate at the University of Michigan. He earned his Master’s degree from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and his Bachelor’s degree from Chongqing University both in Mechanical Engineering. His previous research involves soft robots and nonlinear dynamics and control. His current research is focused on flexible functional metamaterial systems inspired by ancient crafts such as origami, kirigami, and basket weaving.