Jul 30, 2024 01:56 AM
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1052919
INTRO: Inspired by the paper-folding art of origami, North Carolina State University engineers have discovered a way to make a single plastic cubed structure transform into more than 1,000 configurations using only three active motors. The findings could pave the way for shape-shifting artificial systems that can take on multiple functions and even carry a load – like versatile robotic structures used in space, for example.
“The question we’re asking is how to achieve a number of versatile shapes with the fewest number of actuators powering the shapeshifting,” said Jie Yin, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering and co-corresponding author of a paper describing the work. “Here we use a hierarchical concept observed in nature – like layered muscle fibers – but with plastic cubes to create a transforming robot.”
The NC State researchers assembled hollow, plastic cubes using a 3D printer and assembled 36 of them together with rotating hinges; some hinges were fixed with metal pins, while others were activated wirelessly with a motor.
The researchers were able to move the cubes into more than 1,000 shapes using only three active motors. Those shapes included tunnel-like structures, bridge-like structures and even multi-story architectures.
The untethered transformer bots can move forward, backward and sideways – without feet.. (MORE - details, no ads)
INTRO: Inspired by the paper-folding art of origami, North Carolina State University engineers have discovered a way to make a single plastic cubed structure transform into more than 1,000 configurations using only three active motors. The findings could pave the way for shape-shifting artificial systems that can take on multiple functions and even carry a load – like versatile robotic structures used in space, for example.
“The question we’re asking is how to achieve a number of versatile shapes with the fewest number of actuators powering the shapeshifting,” said Jie Yin, associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering and co-corresponding author of a paper describing the work. “Here we use a hierarchical concept observed in nature – like layered muscle fibers – but with plastic cubes to create a transforming robot.”
The NC State researchers assembled hollow, plastic cubes using a 3D printer and assembled 36 of them together with rotating hinges; some hinges were fixed with metal pins, while others were activated wirelessly with a motor.
The researchers were able to move the cubes into more than 1,000 shapes using only three active motors. Those shapes included tunnel-like structures, bridge-like structures and even multi-story architectures.
The untethered transformer bots can move forward, backward and sideways – without feet.. (MORE - details, no ads)