Talk: Creative Making through Physical Intelligence

LIVE STREAM: https://uwmadison.zoom.us/j/93461392828?pwd=eVtwToaHKaA5Q6J49FaDVHsCYsqP1n.1 

Abstract: 3D printing has revolutionized rapid prototyping and the creation of custom physical shapes. However, developing functional and interactive 3D-printed devices beyond static shapes remains challenging due to limited design and fabrication capabilities. My research aims to enhance the expressivity of consumer-grade 3D printing by developing novel techniques and tools that enable tailored functionality and interactivity. In this talk, I will present three key research thrusts focused on creating customized 3D-printed devices for on-demand applications. My work (e.g., Ondulé, ModElec, MobiPrint) advances digital fabrication for making custom 3D-printed devices that mechanically respond to user interactions, incorporate electrical functionalities like sensing and actuation, and adapt physically to human needs and environmental conditions.

Bio: Liang is an Assistant Professor in Interactive Media at the Department of Computer Graphics Technology (CGT) and an affiliated faculty member at the Applied AI Research Center (AARC), Polytechnic Institute at Purdue University. At Purdue, Liang directs the Design & Engineering for Making (DΞ4M) Lab. Before joining Purdue, he obtained his Ph.D. in Computer Science & Engineering from the University of Washington. He also worked at the HP Labs, Microsoft Research (Redmond), and Keio-NUS CUTE Center. His research interests lie in the field of human-computer interaction (HCI), including digital fabrication, tangible interaction, tactile and haptic interfaces, accessibility, and physical intelligence. He develops enabling tools, techniques, and devices that mediate and enhance human interaction with physical and virtual objects and environments. Liang’s works were published at top HCI/UbiComp venues such as ACM CHI, UIST, IMWUT, TEI, and ASSETS with awards.