Morphing matter: from mechanical principles to robotic applications

Abstract

The adaptability of natural organisms in altering body shapes in response to the environment has inspired the development of artificial morphing matter. These materials encode the ability to transform their geometrical configurations in response to specific stimuli and have diverse applications in soft robotics, wearable electronics, and biomedical devices. However, achieving the morphing of intricate three-dimensional shapes from a two-dimensional flat state is challenging, as it requires manipulations of surface curvature in a controlled manner. In this review, we first summarize the mechanical principles extensively explored for realizing morphing matter, both at the material and structural levels. We then highlight its applications in the soft robotics field. Moreover, we offer insights into the open challenges and opportunities that this rapidly growing field faces. This review aims to inspire researchers to uncover innovative working principles and create multifunctional morphing matter for various engineering fields.

Bio-inspired facile strategy for programmable osmosis-driven shape-morphing elastomer composite structures

“…33,34 Furthermore, more intricate 3D shapes can be attained by incorporating additional components or arranging different components into elaborate patterns. 35,36 In this study, we systematically investigate the swelling behavior of Ecoflex 00-10 /NaCl polymer composite. By leveraging the strain mismatch between the polymer composite and PDMS in response to water, we engineer various shape-morphing structures capable of achieving programmed and reversible 3D shape changes.…”