Multiphysics Simulation and Concept of an Electromagnetically Control Volumetric Pixel as a Step Towards a Shape Morphing Composite

Abstract

Constant development of robotics forces scientists and engineers to work on robots that are more visually and rigidly compatible with the environment around us. To make this possible, new flexible structures are necessary that enable programmatic shape change. To meet this need, in this work we present the concept and modelling methodology of a new structure enabling shape change using electromagnetic forces produced in liquid metal conductor and its stiffening using a granular jamming mechanism. This work presents the structure concept, the description of modelling methodology and empirical validation including the magnetitic field, scanned by magnetic field camera, and displacement distribution.