Work

Photothermally and magnetically controlled reconfiguration of polymer composites for soft robotics

Year: 2019

Type: article

Abstract: New materials are advancing the field of soft robotics. Composite films of magnetic iron microparticles dispersed in a shape memory polymer matrix are demonstrated for reconfigurable, remotely actuated soft robots. The composite films simultaneously respond to magnetic fields and light. Temporary shapes obtained through combined magnetic actuation and photothermal heating can be locked by switching off the light and magnetic field. Subsequent illumination in the absence of the magnetic field drives recovery of the permanent shape. In cantilevers and flowers, multiple cycles of locking and unlocking are demonstrated. Scrolls show that the permanent shape of the film can be programmed, and they can be frozen in intermediate configurations. Bistable snappers can be magnetically and optically actuated, as well as biased, by controlling the permanent shape. Grabbers can pick up and release objects repeatedly. Simulations of combined photothermal heating and magnetic actuation are useful for guiding the design of new devices.

Source: Science Advances

DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaw2897

Authors: Jessica A.-C. Liu, Jonathan H. Gillen, Sumeet R. Mishra, Emily E. Evans, Joseph B. Tracy

Institutions: North Carolina State University, Elon University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Materials and Mechanics

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,500