Shokofeh Darbari

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Pennsylvania State University

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Shokofeh Darbari is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of soft robotics, advanced manufacturing, and architectural design. Her most impactful work, the 2021 paper "Printed silicone pneumatic actuators for soft robotics" (83 citations), introduces a novel fabrication method for creating compliant, inflatable actuators using printed silicone—a breakthrough that enables more accessible, customizable, and material-efficient soft robotic systems. This contribution bridges the gap between traditional rigid robotics and the need for adaptive, safe human-machine interactions. Darbari’s earlier research, "Assisted automation: Three learning experiences in architectural robotics" (6 citations), critically examines how robotic technologies can foster visual, tactile, and spatial exploration within architectural practice, challenging the purely industrial legacy of automation. By integrating material science, design thinking, and robotics, Darbari’s work advances both the technical capabilities and the creative potential of soft robotic systems, offering new pathways for applications in wearable devices, medical tools, and interactive architecture. Her research is particularly notable for its emphasis on accessible, printed fabrication methods that democratize soft robotics.