Luke Franzke

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Luke Franzke is a design researcher at the forefront of shape-changing interfaces and soft robotics, with a particular focus on making electroactive polymers (EAPs) accessible to designers, artists, and architects. His key contributions lie in bridging the gap between advanced materials science and creative practice—developing practical methods for prototyping with EAPs despite their commercial and technical challenges. Franzke’s most cited work, “Shape Changing Surfaces and Structures” (2019, 15 citations), outlines foundational techniques for integrating these responsive materials into dynamic, adaptive forms, directly addressing the barriers of limited availability and high-voltage electronics. Beyond this, his research explores how shape-changing surfaces can transform human-computer interaction, architecture, and product design, envisioning environments that physically reconfigure in response to user needs. Franzke’s impact is evident in his role as a catalyst for interdisciplinary collaboration, empowering non-engineers to engage with cutting-edge material technologies. His achievements include pioneering accessible prototyping toolkits and contributing to the growing discourse on soft, adaptive systems—work that continues to inspire new generations of researchers and practitioners in design, art, and engineering.