The Adaptive Solar Facade (ASF) is a modular, highly integrated dynamic building facade.The energetic behavior as well as the architectural expression of the facade can be controlled with high spatio-temporal resolution through individually addressable modules. We present the general design process, the current mechanical design, and simulation results on photovoltaic power production and building energy consumption. We introduce the controller concept and show results on solar tracking as well as user interaction. Lastly, we present our current and planned prototypes

Anthropomimetic robotics differs from conventional approaches by capitalizing on the replication of the inner structures of the human body, such as muscles, tendons, bones, and joints. Here we present our results of more than three years of research in constructing, simulating, and, most importantly, controlling anthropomimetic robots. We manufactured four physical torsos, each more complex than its predecessor, and developed the tools required to simulate their behavior. Furthermore, six different control approaches, inspired by classical control theory, machine learning, and neuroscience, were developed and evaluated via these simulations or in small-scale setups. While the obtained results are encouraging, we are aware that we have barely exploited the potential of the anthropomimetic design so far. But, with the tools developed, we are confident that this novel approach will contribute to our understanding of morphological computation and human motor control in the future.

Dc power systems can integrate dc renewable generation, storage, and building electrical loads easier and more efficiently than conventional ac based systems. A key challenge for the successful market adoption of these systems is the integration with existing electrical loads and power grids in buildings. Hybrid ac/dc microgrids combine advantages of both ac and dc systems and may facilitate the integration process of dc power technologies into existing ac systems. In this work, the performance of a hybrid building microgrid coupling on-site PV generation with ac and dc loads of a residential building is investigated in simulation. An experimental dc network prototype, coupling PV electricity generation to LED lighting in a building, has been built and tested. Theoretical and experimental results are used for the design of a hybrid microgrid, planned to be implemented together with the PV system of a residential research building.