Abstract

Kinematical reconfigurable structures can be used as morphing platforms. They can be integrated with multi-physics functional elements to achieve reconfigurable properties associated with electromagnetic, optical, acoustic, thermal, and mechanical performances. However, one fundamental problem for such platforms is the lack of a systematic design approach to practically achieve arbitrarily prescribed geometric reconfiguration. Designs based on high degree-of- freedom (DOF) mechanisms can achieve almost arbitrary reconfiguration but struggle with actuation and control. Pneumatic control, smart materials with shape memory or magnetic properties, and structural multi-stability have been applied to alleviate the problem, but the resultant accuracy and achievable configurations are limited. Designs based on low DOF mechanisms can be actuated easily but can only deform in a simple way. A robust design framework that can achieve inverse designability, easy actuation, and high accuracy/stability is yet to be established. This talk proposes a design method for arbitrarily prescribed geometric reconfiguration considering actuation and manufacturing feasibility. It employs a new multistability design method and a novel path- finding algorithm. 2D and 3D examples are demonstrated, which can be designed for 2-3 prescribed configurations with high stability and easy actuation

Join Zoom Meeting https://eng- cam.zoom.us/j/84647160140?pwd=azl5dC9Od1hZL 0xzM0dLU3N4MHIwUT09

Meeting ID: 846 4716 0140 Passcode: 153130