The composite material expands and contracts based on temperature in order to perform specific tasks. (Image credit: University of Illinois)
Scientists from the University of Illinois (Urbana-Champagne) have developed a new composite material that can change shape and perform specific tasks when subjected to different temperatures. The material could be used in next-gen autonomous robots that can interact with their environment. The scientists used computer algorithms, a pair of distinct polymers and 3D printing to reverse engineer a material that expands and contracts when subjected to temperature changes with and without human intervention.
“Creating a material or device that will respond in specific ways depending on its environment is very challenging to conceptualize using human intuition alone—there are just so many design possibilities out there,” states engineering professor Shelly Zhang. “So, instead, we decided to work with a computer algorithm to help us determine the best combination of materials and geometry.”
To develop the material, the scientists employed computer modeling to conceptualize the composite material, which can behave like rubber in low temperatures and stiff plastic in higher temperatures. After 3D printing into a tangible device, the scientists tested the material’s ability to respond to temperature changes and perform a simple task – power on LED lights, which was carried out successfully. According to Zhang, one of the hallmarks of its development was the optimization of the process that helped the scientists to interpolate the distribution and geometries of the two different polymer materials. Their next goal is to employ that technique to add another complexity to the material’s autonomous or programmed behavior, such as the ability to sense the velocity of an impact from another object. This would be critical for robots working in harsh environments or knowing how to respond to hazards in the field.
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