Optimal Control of Flow-Induced TRAPs Using Spinning Robots

This project combines optimal control, fluid mechanics, and dynamical systems to design and steer transport and accumulation regions (TRAPs) in fluid environments using spinning robots as flow actuators. By controlling rotation speed, direction, and robot coordination, we aim to generate tailored flow structures that selectively trap floating particles or swimming microorganisms. The theoretical component builds on physical and dynamical-systems models developed in our group to identify and control attracting coherent structures in unsteady flows. Theoretical work can be complemented by experimental validation in collaboration with colleagues in UCSD Physics. The project establishes a principled framework for programmable particle aggregation, sorting, and control in active and complex fluid systems, with applications in ecology, tumor detection, and ocean plastic cleanup.