Robotic manipulation of deformable objects by leveraging physical rules

In everyday life, manipulating deformable objects is a common task, such as folding and unfolding clothes or towels and cleaning plates with sponges. However, the precise physical rules governing the manipulation of deformable objects are challenging to design empirically. A key factor contributing to this difficulty is that the dynamics of deformable objects depend on their material properties, as well as their size and shape, unlike rigid objects.<br /> <br /> This project aims to research the automated discovery of physical rules by observing human demonstrations captured by depth cameras. These rules, derived from visual observations, can facilitate the deployment of robotic manipulation in an end-to-end manner. Learning from visual images offers an intuitive and straightforward method for transferring human skills to robots. While these physical rules may not be entirely precise, they provide effective guidance at a coarse level, enabling robots to acquire proper manipulation skills with fewer trials. Furthermore, these physical rules can be refined through iterative interactions with deformable objects. This reciprocal relationship between physical rule refinement and manipulation actions resembles, to some extent, how humans handle unfamiliar tasks.<br />

<p style="text-align:start; margin-bottom:24px">Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>EPSRC DTP Engineering & Physical Sciences</strong></em> (if you do not apply to this programme code, your application will not be considered) and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Robotic manipulation of deformable objects by leveraging physical rules</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/computing/staff/8178/dr-yanlong-huang">Dr Yanlong Huang</a> as your proposed supervisor. <em><strong>Please state clearly in the Finance Section that the funding source you are applying for is EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award 2025/26: Computer Science</strong></em>.</p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</p> <p>Applications will be considered after the closing date.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 31 January 2025:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study in the School of Computer Science is an IELTS of 6.5 overall with at least 6.5 in writing and at least 6.0 in reading, listening and speaking or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid.

<p class="MsoNoSpacing">A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award providing full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (£19,237 in academic session 2024/25) for 3.5 years.  Training and support will also be provided.</p> <p>This opportunity is open to all applicants.  All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p><strong>Important: </strong>Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not</strong></em> cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Dr Yanlong Huang by email to <a href="mailto:Y.L.Huang@leeds.ac.uk">Y.L.Huang@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>