Soft shape-programmable surfaces by fast electromagnetic actuation of liquid metal networks

Abstract

Low modulus materials that can shape-morph into different three-dimensional (3D) configurations in response to external stimuli have wide-ranging applications in flexible/stretchable electronics, surgical instruments, soft machines and soft robotics. This paper reports a shape-programmable system that exploits liquid metal microfluidic networks embedded in an elastomer matrix, with electromagnetic forms of actuation, to achieve a unique set of properties. Specifically, this materials structure is capable of fast, continuous morphing into a diverse set of continuous, complex 3D surfaces starting from a two-dimensional (2D) planar configuration, with fully reversible operation. Computational, multi-physics modeling methods and advanced 3D imaging techniques enable rapid, real-time transformations between target shapes. The liquid-solid phase transition of the liquid metal allows for shape fixation and reprogramming on demand. An unusual vibration insensitive, dynamic 3D display screen serves as an application example of this type of morphable surface.

Bioinspired helical-artificial fibrous muscle structured tubular soft actuators

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Biodegradable electrohydraulic actuators for sustainable soft robots

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Liquid Metal Droplets‐Based Elastomers from Electric Toothbrush‐Inspired Revolving Microfluidics

“…[1][2][3][4][5] The development of these flexible electronics focuses on bringing advanced functionalities so that they can find broad applications in health monitoring, bionic intelligent robots, biomedical devices, and to produce LM droplets of different sizes and shapes for the construction of soft wearable devices. [32][33][34][35] However, LMs have some unique characteristics such as high density and large surface tension. The large surface tension necessitates the use of high-viscosity continuous phase fluid to provide sufficient shear for droplet pinch-off, and this could result in a high pressure drop that can damage the microfluidic channel.…”