1
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Cheng Q, Lu X, Tai Y, Luo T, Yang R. Light-Driven Microrobots for Targeted Drug Delivery. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:5562-5594. [PMID: 39147594 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c01191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
As a new micromanipulation tool with the advantages of small size, flexible movement and easy manipulation, light-driven microrobots have a wide range of prospects in biomedical fields such as drug targeting and cell manipulation. Recently, microrobots have been controlled in various ways, and light field has become a research hotspot by its advantages of noncontact manipulation, precise localization, fast response, and biocompatibility. It utilizes the force or deformation generated by the light field to precisely control the microrobot, and combines with the drug release technology to realize the targeted drug application. Therefore, this paper provides an overview of light-driven microrobots with drug targeting to provide new ideas for the manipulation of microrobots. Here, this paper briefly categorizes the driving mechanisms and materials of light-driven microrobots, which mainly include photothermal, photochemical, and biological. Then, typical designs of light-driven microrobots with different driving mechanisms and control strategies for multiple physical fields are summarized. Finally, the applications of microrobots in the fields of drug targeting and bioimaging are presented as well as the future prospects of light-driven microrobots in the biomedical field are demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qilong Cheng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xingqi Lu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yunhao Tai
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Tingting Luo
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Runhuai Yang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
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2
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Ding M, Yang X, Liu Y, Zeng S, Duan G, Huang Y, Liang Z, Zhang P, Ji J, Jiang S. A review of advanced helical fibers: formation mechanism, preparation, properties, and applications. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2024. [PMID: 39221699 DOI: 10.1039/d4mh00737a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
As a unique structural form, helical structures have a wide range of application prospects. In the field of biology, helical structures are essential for the function of biological macromolecules such as proteins, so the study of helical structures can help to deeply understand life phenomena and develop new biotechnology. In materials science, helical structures can give rise to special physical and chemical properties, such as in the case of spiral nanotubes, helical fibers, etc., which are expected to be used in energy, environment, medical and other fields. The helical structure also has unique charm and application value in the fields of aesthetics and architecture. In addition, helical fibers have attracted a lot of attention because of their tendrils' vascular geometry and indispensable structural properties. In this paper, the development of helical fibers is briefly reviewed from the aspects of mechanism, synthesis process and application. Due to their good chemical and physical properties, helical fibers have a good application prospect in many fields. Potential problems and future opportunities for helical fibers are also presented for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minmin Ding
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China.
| | - Xiuling Yang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China.
| | - Yanbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of New Textile Materials and Advanced Processing Technologies, School of Textile Science and Engineering, Wuhan Textile University, Wuhan, 430200, China.
| | - Shiyi Zeng
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China.
| | - Gaigai Duan
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China.
| | - Yong Huang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China.
| | - Zhao Liang
- Institute of Micro/Nano Materials and Devices, Ningbo University of Technology, Ningbo, 315211, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Peng Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecule Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jian Ji
- MOE Key Laboratory of Macromolecule Synthesis and Functionalization, Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shaohua Jiang
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center of Efficient Processing and Utilization of Forest Resources, International Innovation Center for Forest Chemicals and Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037, China.
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3
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Arroyo I, Cedeño R, Nour Eddine N, Alcaraz G, Pensec S, Bouteiller L, Naït-Abdelaziz M, Barrau S, Tahon JF, Fournier D, Fadel A, Takeshita M, Buntinx G, Aloïse S. Easy Processable Photomechanical Thin Film Involving a Photochromic Diarylethene and a Thermoplastic Elastomer in Supramolecular Interaction. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2402131. [PMID: 39152527 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202402131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
A novel supramolecular photoactuator in the form of a thin film of centimetric size has been developed as an alternative to traditional liquid crystal elastomers (LCE) involving azobenzene (AZO) units or photochromic microcrystals. This thin film is produced through spin coating without the need for alignment or crosslinking. The photoactuator combines a photochromic dithienylethene (DTE) functionalized with ureidopyrimidinone (UPy) units, and a telechelic thermoplastic elastomer, also functionalized with UPy, allowing quadruple hydrogen bonding between the two components. Upon alternating ultraviolet (UV) and visible light exposure, the film exhibits reversible bending and color changes, studied using displacement and absorption tracking setups. For the first time, the photomechanical effect (PME) is quantitatively correlated with photochromism, showing that DTE units drive the movement under both UV (photocyclization) and visible (photoreversion) light. In situ illumination techniques reveal that the PME arises from photoinduced strain within 160 nm UPy-bonded DTE domains, which expand and contract by approximately 50% under UV and visible light, respectively. The semicrystalline nature of the elastomer and a robust supramolecular network connecting both components are critical in converting microscopic photostrain into macroscopic actuation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Arroyo
- Université de Lille, CNRS, UMR 8516 - LASIRE - Laboratoire de Spectroscopie pour les Interactions, la Réactivité et l'Environnement, Lille, 59000, France
| | - Rebeca Cedeño
- Université de Lille, Unité de Mécanique de Lille-Joseph Boussinesq ULR 7512, Lille, 59000, France
| | - Nour Nour Eddine
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, ISCR (Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes) - UMR 6226, Rennes, F-35000, France
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut Parisien de Chimie Moléculaire, Equipe Chimie des Polymères, 4 Place Jussieu, Paris, 75005, France
| | - Gilles Alcaraz
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, ISCR (Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes) - UMR 6226, Rennes, F-35000, France
| | - Sandrine Pensec
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut Parisien de Chimie Moléculaire, Equipe Chimie des Polymères, 4 Place Jussieu, Paris, 75005, France
| | - Laurent Bouteiller
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, Institut Parisien de Chimie Moléculaire, Equipe Chimie des Polymères, 4 Place Jussieu, Paris, 75005, France
| | - Moussa Naït-Abdelaziz
- Université de Lille, Unité de Mécanique de Lille-Joseph Boussinesq ULR 7512, Lille, 59000, France
| | - Sophie Barrau
- Université de Lille, CNRS, INRAE, Centrale Lille, UMR 8207 - UMET - Unité Matériaux et Transformations, Lille, F-59000, France
| | - Jean-François Tahon
- Université de Lille, CNRS, INRAE, Centrale Lille, UMR 8207 - UMET - Unité Matériaux et Transformations, Lille, F-59000, France
| | - David Fournier
- Université de Lille, CNRS, INRAE, Centrale Lille, UMR 8207 - UMET - Unité Matériaux et Transformations, Lille, F-59000, France
| | - Alexandre Fadel
- Université de Lille, CNRS, INRAE, Centrale Lille, Univ. Artois, FR 2638 - IMEC - Institut Michel-Eugène Chevreul, Lille, F-59000, France
| | - Michinori Takeshita
- Department of Advanced Technology and Fusion, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, University of Saga, Saga, 840-8502, Japan
| | - Guy Buntinx
- Université de Lille, CNRS, UMR 8516 - LASIRE - Laboratoire de Spectroscopie pour les Interactions, la Réactivité et l'Environnement, Lille, 59000, France
| | - Stéphane Aloïse
- Université de Lille, CNRS, UMR 8516 - LASIRE - Laboratoire de Spectroscopie pour les Interactions, la Réactivité et l'Environnement, Lille, 59000, France
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4
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Lam K, Carta V, Almtiri M, Bushnak I, Islam I, Al-Kaysi RO, Bardeen CJ. Solar-Powered Molecular Crystal Motor Based on an Anthracene-Thiazolidinedione Photoisomerization Reaction. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:18836-18840. [PMID: 38954772 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c05566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Assembling molecular machines into crystals provides a way to harness their power on large length scales, but the development of a crystal analogue to a molecular motor remains a challenge. The molecule (Z)-5-(anthracen-9-ylmethylene)-3-butylthiazolidine-2,4-dione (C4-ATD) has E and Z isomers with strongly overlapping absorption spectra. This spectroscopic property allows both Z → E and E → Z photoisomerization reactions to be driven by a single light source, and simulations indicate this property can provide a route to robust oscillatory motion. Reprecipitation in an aqueous surfactant enables the growth of single crystal microwires that exhibit continuous mechanical oscillations under a wide range of illumination conditions, including ambient solar irradiation. Molecular crystal motors provide a new approach for transforming continuous light into oscillatory mechanical motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Lam
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Veronica Carta
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
| | - Mohammed Almtiri
- College of Science and Health Professions-3124, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, and King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (Nanomedicine), Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh 11426, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ibraheem Bushnak
- College of Science and Health Professions-3124, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, and King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (Nanomedicine), Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh 11426, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Imadul Islam
- College of Science and Health Professions-3124, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, and King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (Nanomedicine), Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh 11426, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Rabih O Al-Kaysi
- College of Science and Health Professions-3124, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, and King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (Nanomedicine), Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh 11426, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Christopher J Bardeen
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, California 92521, United States
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5
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Zhu QL, Liu W, Khoruzhenko O, Breu J, Bai H, Hong W, Zheng Q, Wu ZL. Closed Twisted Hydrogel Ribbons with Self-Sustained Motions under Static Light Irradiation. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2314152. [PMID: 38652466 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202314152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Self-sustained motions are widespread in biological systems by harvesting energy from surrounding environments, which inspire scientists to develop autonomous soft robots. However, most-existing soft robots require dynamic heterogeneous stimuli or complex fabrication with different components. Recently, control of topological geometry has been promising to afford soft robots with physical intelligence and thus life-like motions. Reported here are a series of closed twisted ribbon robots, which exhibit self-sustained flipping and rotation under constant light irradiation. Both Möbius strip and Seifert ribbon robots are devised for the first time by using an identical hydrogel, which responds to light irradiation on either side. Experiment and simulation results indicate that the self-regulated motions of the hydrogel robots are related to fast and reversible response of muscle-like gel, self-shadowing effect, and topology-facilitated refresh of light-exposed regions. The motion speeds and directions of the hydrogel robots can be tuned over a wide range. These closed twisted ribbon hydrogels are further applied to execute specific tasks in aqueous environments, such as collecting plastic balls, climbing a vertical rod, and transporting objects. This work presents new design principle for autonomous hydrogel robots by benefiting from material response and topology geometry, which may be inspirative for the robotics community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Li Zhu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Weixuan Liu
- Department of Mechanics and Aerospace Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Olena Khoruzhenko
- Bavarian Polymer Institute and Department of Chemistry, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, 95440, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Josef Breu
- Bavarian Polymer Institute and Department of Chemistry, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, 95440, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Huiying Bai
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Wei Hong
- Department of Mechanics and Aerospace Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Qiang Zheng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Zi Liang Wu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and Functionalization Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
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6
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Zhou X, Chen G, Jin B, Feng H, Chen Z, Fang M, Yang B, Xiao R, Xie T, Zheng N. Multimodal Autonomous Locomotion of Liquid Crystal Elastomer Soft Robot. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2402358. [PMID: 38520731 PMCID: PMC11187929 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202402358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Self-oscillation phenomena observed in nature serve as extraordinary inspiration for designing synthetic autonomous moving systems. Converting self-oscillation into designable self-sustained locomotion can lead to a new generation of soft robots that require minimal/no external control. However, such locomotion is typically constrained to a single mode dictated by the constant surrounding environment. In this study, a liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) robot capable of achieving self-sustained multimodal locomotion, with the specific motion mode being controlled via substrate adhesion or remote light stimulation is presented. Specifically, the LCE is mechanically trained to undergo repeated snapping actions to ensure its self-sustained rolling motion in a constant gradient thermal field atop a hotplate. By further fine-tuning the substrate adhesion, the LCE robot exhibits reversible transitions between rolling and jumping modes. In addition, the rolling motion can be manipulated in real time through light stimulation to perform other diverse motions including turning, decelerating, stopping, backing up, and steering around complex obstacles. The principle of introducing an on-demand gate control offers a new venue for designing future autonomous soft robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorui Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical EngineeringCollege of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Guancong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical EngineeringCollege of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Binjie Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical EngineeringCollege of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Haijun Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical EngineeringCollege of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Zike Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic SystemsKey Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang ProvinceDepartment of Engineering MechanicsZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Mengqi Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical EngineeringCollege of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Bo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical EngineeringCollege of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Rui Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic SystemsKey Laboratory of Soft Machines and Smart Devices of Zhejiang ProvinceDepartment of Engineering MechanicsZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Tao Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical EngineeringCollege of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Ning Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical EngineeringCollege of Chemical and Biological EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
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7
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Sun Y, Men Y, Liu S, Wang X, Li C. Liquid crystalline elastomer self-oscillating fiber actuators fabricated from soft tubular molds. SOFT MATTER 2024; 20:4246-4256. [PMID: 38747973 DOI: 10.1039/d4sm00134f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
The self-oscillation of objects that perform continuous and periodic motions upon unchanging and constant stimuli is highly important for intelligent actuators, advanced robotics, and biomedical machines. Liquid crystalline elastomer (LCE) materials are superior to traditional stimuli-responsive polymeric materials in the development of self-oscillators because of their reversible, large and anisotropic shape-changing ability, fast response ability and versatile structural design. In addition, fiber-shaped oscillators have attracted much interest due to their agility, flexibility and diverse oscillation modes. Herein, we present a strategy for fabricating fiber-shaped LCE self-oscillators using soft tubes as molds. Through the settlement of different configuration states of the soft tubes, the prepared fiber-shaped LCE oscillators can perform continuous rotational self-oscillation or up-and-down shifting self-oscillation under constant light stimuli, which are realized by photoinduced repetitive self-winding motion and self-waving motion, respectively. The mechanism of self-oscillating movements is attributed to the local temperature oscillation of LCE fibers caused by repetitive self-shadowing effects. LCE self-oscillators can operate stably over many oscillating cycles without obvious performance attenuation, revealing good robustness. Our work offers a versatile way by which LCE self-oscillators can be conveniently designed and fabricated in bulk and at low cost, and broadens the road for developing self-oscillating materials for biological robotics and health care machines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying Sun
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, P. R. China.
| | - Yanli Men
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, P. R. China.
| | - Shiyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, P. R. China.
| | - Xiuxiu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, P. R. China.
| | - Chensha Li
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, P. R. China.
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8
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Kim YB, Yang S, Kim DS. Sidewinder-Inspired Self-Adjusting, Lateral-Rolling Soft Robots for Autonomous Terrain Exploration. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308350. [PMID: 38286667 PMCID: PMC11005722 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Helical structures of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) hold promise in soft robotics for self-regulated rolling motions. The understanding of their motion paths and potentials for terrain exploration remains limited. This study introduces a self-adjusting, lateral-rolling soft robot inspired by sidewinder snakes. The spring-like LCE helical filaments (HFs) autonomously respond to thermal cues, demonstrating dynamic and sustainable locomotion with adaptive rolling along non-linear paths. By fine-tuning the diameter, pitch, and modulus of the LCE HFs, and the environmental temperature, the movements of the LCE HFs, allowing for exploration of diverse terrains over a 600 cm2 area within a few minutes, can be programmed. LCE HFs are showcased to navigate through over nine obstacles, including maze escaping, terrain exploration, target hunting, and successfully surmounting staircases through adaptable rolling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Been Kim
- Department of Polymer EngineeringPukyong National University45 Yongso‐ro, Nam‐guBusan48513South Korea
| | - Shu Yang
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringUniversity of Pennsylvania3231 Walnut StreetPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
| | - Dae Seok Kim
- Department of Polymer EngineeringPukyong National University45 Yongso‐ro, Nam‐guBusan48513South Korea
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9
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Deng Z, Zhang H, Priimagi A, Zeng H. Light-Fueled Nonreciprocal Self-Oscillators for Fluidic Transportation and Coupling. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2209683. [PMID: 36525600 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Light-fueled self-oscillators based on soft actuating materials have triggered novel designs for small-scale robotic constructs that self-sustain their motion at non-equilibrium states and possess bioinspired autonomy and adaptive functions. However, the motions of most self-oscillators are reciprocal, which hinders their use in sophisticated biomimetic functions such as fluidic transportation. Here, an optically powered soft material strip that can perform nonreciprocal, cilia-like, self-sustained oscillation under water is reported. The actuator is made of planar-aligned liquid crystal elastomer responding to visible light. Two laser beams from orthogonal directions allow for piecewise control over the strip deformation, enabling two self-shadowing effects coupled in one single material to yield nonreciprocal strokes. The nonreciprocity, stroke pattern and handedness are connected to the fluidic pumping efficiency, which can be controlled by the excitation conditions. Autonomous microfluidic pumping in clockwise and anticlockwise directions, translocation of a micro-object by liquid propulsion, and coupling between two oscillating strips through liquid medium interaction are demonstrated. The results offer new concepts for non-equilibrium soft actuators that can perform bio-like functions under water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixuan Deng
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, P.O. Box 541, Tampere, FI 33101, Finland
| | - Hang Zhang
- Department of Applied Physics, Aalto University, P.O. Box 15100, Espoo, FI 02150, Finland
| | - Arri Priimagi
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, P.O. Box 541, Tampere, FI 33101, Finland
| | - Hao Zeng
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, P.O. Box 541, Tampere, FI 33101, Finland
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10
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Feng W, He Q, Zhang L. Embedded Physical Intelligence in Liquid Crystalline Polymer Actuators and Robots. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024:e2312313. [PMID: 38375751 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202312313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Responsive materials possess the inherent capacity to autonomously sense and respond to various external stimuli, demonstrating physical intelligence. Among the diverse array of responsive materials, liquid crystalline polymers (LCPs) stand out for their remarkable reversible stimuli-responsive shape-morphing properties and their potential for creating soft robots. While numerous reviews have extensively detailed the progress in developing LCP-based actuators and robots, there exists a need for comprehensive summaries that elucidate the underlying principles governing actuation and how physical intelligence is embedded within these systems. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in developing actuators and robots endowed with physical intelligence using LCPs. This review is structured around the stimulus conditions and categorizes the studies involving responsive LCPs based on the fundamental control and stimulation logic and approach. Specifically, three main categories are examined: systems that respond to changing stimuli, those operating under constant stimuli, and those equip with learning and logic control capabilities. Furthermore, the persisting challenges that need to be addressed are outlined and discuss the future avenues of research in this dynamic field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Feng
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qiguang He
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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11
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Zhang C, Fei G, Lu X, Xia H, Zhao Y. Liquid Crystal Elastomer Artificial Tendrils with Asymmetric Core-Sheath Structure Showing Evolutionary Biomimetic Locomotion. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2307210. [PMID: 37805917 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
The sophisticated and complex haptonastic movements in response to environmental-stimuli of living organisms have always fascinated scientists. However, how to fundamentally mimic the sophisticated hierarchical architectures of living organisms to provide the artificial counterparts with similar or even beyond-natural functions based on the underlying mechanism remains a major scientific challenge. Here, liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) artificial tendrils showing evolutionary biomimetic locomotion are developed following the structure-function principle that is used in nature to grow climbing plants. These elaborately designed tendril-like LCE actuators possess an asymmetric core-sheath architecture which shows a higher-to-lower transition in the degree of LC orientation from the sheath-to-core layer across the semi-ellipse cross-section. Upon heating and cooling, the LCE artificial tendril can undergo reversible tendril-like shape-morphing behaviors, such as helical coiling/winding, and perversion. The fundamental mechanism of the helical shape-morphing of the artificial tendril is revealed by using theoretical models and finite element simulations. Besides, the incorporation of metal-ligand coordination into the LCE network provides the artificial tendril with reconfigurable shape-morphing performances such as helical transitions and rotational deformations. Finally, the abilities of helical and rotational deformations are integrated into a new reprogrammed flagellum-like architecture to perform evolutionary locomotion mimicking the haptonastic movements of the natural flagellum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Guoxia Fei
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Xili Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Hesheng Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Polymer Research Institute, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Département de chimie Université de Sherbrooke Sherbrooke, Québec, J1K 2R1, Canada
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12
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Jeong YJ, Park SY. Light-Responsive Actuator of Azobenzene-Containing Main-Chain Liquid Crystal Elastomers with Allyl Sulfide Dynamic Exchangeable Linkages. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:2788-2801. [PMID: 38170866 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c17068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Herein, a light-responsive and light-induced bond-exchange-reaction (BER)-capable actuator of the monodomain liquid crystal elastomer (xMLCEazo), developed using main-chain mesogenic oligomers containing azobenzene and allyl sulfide linkages, is investigated. Large quantities of the azobenzene and allyl dithiol linkages are incorporated into the main-chain mesogenic oligomer prepared via thiol-acrylate Michael addition polymerization (TAMAP). The xMLCEazo film is generated via visible-light-induced BER of the drawn polydomain xLCEazo (xPLCEazo) film prepared via TAMAP of tetrathiol cross-linkers and diacrylate-terminated mesogenic oligomers. The xMLCEazo film exhibits large length actuation (38%) through the photothermal effect, along with excellent self-healing and reprogramming properties, under ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation. UV light induced BER of the xMLCEazo film is used to develop complex-shaped actuators with a bilayer film, containing the xMLCEazo and xPLCEazo films, which are bonded by the UV light induced BER without glue. The individual arm of the complex eight-arm flower is remotely actuated under UV light irradiation, and a circular band is rolled under blue laser light irradiation, demonstrating the local remote-controlled actuation and fuel-free motion of the motile soft robot using light irradiation, respectively. Thus, the xMLCEazo film can be expanded to other interesting applications requiring reprogrammable, self-healing, reprocessable, patternable, and remote-controlled light-triggered elastic, rubber-like actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- You-Jeong Jeong
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Polymeric Nano Materials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
| | - Soo-Young Park
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Polymeric Nano Materials Laboratory, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Republic of Korea
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13
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Qi F, Li Y, Hong Y, Zhao Y, Qing H, Yin J. Defected twisted ring topology for autonomous periodic flip-spin-orbit soft robot. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2312680121. [PMID: 38194462 PMCID: PMC10801889 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2312680121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Periodic spin-orbit motion is ubiquitous in nature, observed from electrons orbiting nuclei to spinning planets orbiting the Sun. Achieving autonomous periodic orbiting motions, along circular and noncircular paths, in soft mobile robotics is crucial for adaptive and intelligent exploration of unknown environments-a grand challenge yet to be accomplished. Here, we report leveraging a closed-loop twisted ring topology with a defect for an autonomous soft robot capable of achieving periodic spin-orbiting motions with programmed circular and re-programmed irregular-shaped trajectories. Constructed by bonding a twisted liquid crystal elastomer ribbon into a closed-loop ring topology, the robot exhibits three coupled periodic self-motions in response to constant temperature or constant light sources: inside-out flipping, self-spinning around the ring center, and self-orbiting around a point outside the ring. The coupled spinning and orbiting motions share the same direction and period. The spinning or orbiting direction depends on the twisting chirality, while the orbital radius and period are determined by the twisted ring geometry and thermal actuation. The flip-spin and orbiting motions arise from the twisted ring topology and a bonding site defect that breaks the force symmetry, respectively. By utilizing the twisting-encoded autonomous flip-spin-orbit motions, we showcase the robot's potential for intelligently mapping the geometric boundaries of unknown confined spaces, including convex shapes like circles, squares, triangles, and pentagons and concaves shapes with multi-robots, as well as health monitoring of unknown confined spaces with boundary damages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangjie Qi
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC27695
| | - Yanbin Li
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC27695
| | - Yaoye Hong
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC27695
| | - Yao Zhao
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC27695
| | - Haitao Qing
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC27695
| | - Jie Yin
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC27695
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14
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Yuan Z, Liu J, Qian G, Dai Y, Li K. Self-Rotation of Electrothermally Responsive Liquid Crystal Elastomer-Based Turntable in Steady-State Circuits. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4598. [PMID: 38232009 PMCID: PMC10708095 DOI: 10.3390/polym15234598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Self-excited motions, characterized by their ability to harness energy from a consistent environment and self-regulate, exhibit significant potential in micro-devices, autonomous robotics, sensor technology, and energy generation. This study introduces an innovative turntable system based on an electrothermally responsive liquid crystal elastomer (LCE). This system facilitates self-rotation within a steady-state circuit. Employing an electrothermal LCE model, we have modeled and numerically analyzed the nonlinear dynamics of an LCE-rope within steady-state circuits, utilizing the four-order Runge-Kutta method for calculations. The numerical results reveal the emergence of two distinct motion patterns in the turntable system under steady-state conditions: a self-rotation pattern and a static pattern. The self-rotation is initiated when the system's absorbed energy surpasses the energy lost due to damping effects. Furthermore, this paper delves into the critical conditions necessary for initiating self-rotation and examines the influence of various key dimensionless parameters on the system's rotation amplitude and frequency. These parameters include gravitational acceleration, the initial position of the mass ball, elastic stiffness of the LCE and spring, limiting temperature, heating zone angle, thermal shrinkage coefficient, and damping factor. Our computational findings establish that these parameters exert a modulatory impact on the rotation amplitude and period. This research enhances the understanding of self-excited motions and offers promising avenues for applications in energy harvesting, monitoring, soft robotics, medical devices, and micro- and nano-devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongsong Yuan
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China; (Z.Y.); (G.Q.); (Y.D.)
| | - Junxiu Liu
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China; (Z.Y.); (G.Q.); (Y.D.)
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Building Structure and Underground Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Guqian Qian
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China; (Z.Y.); (G.Q.); (Y.D.)
| | - Yuntong Dai
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China; (Z.Y.); (G.Q.); (Y.D.)
| | - Kai Li
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China; (Z.Y.); (G.Q.); (Y.D.)
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Building Structure and Underground Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
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15
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Choi J, Jeon J, Lee J, Nauman A, Lee JG, Cho W, Lee C, Cho Y, Wie JJ, Kim H. Steerable and Agile Light-Fueled Rolling Locomotors by Curvature-Engineered Torsional Torque. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2304715. [PMID: 37565602 PMCID: PMC10602523 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202304715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
On-demand photo-steerable amphibious rolling motions are generated by the structural engineering of monolithic soft locomotors. Photo-morphogenesis of azobenzene-functionalized liquid crystal polymer networks (azo-LCNs) is designed from spiral ribbon to helicoid helices, employing a 270° super-twisted nematic molecular geometry with aspect ratio variations of azo-LCN strips. Unlike the intermittent and biased rolling of spiral ribbon azo-LCNs with center-of-mass shifting, the axial torsional torque of helicoid azo-LCNs enables continuous and straight rolling at high rotation rates (≈720 rpm). Furthermore, center-tapered helicoid structures with wide edges are introduced for effectively accelerating photo-motilities while maintaining directional controllability. Irrespective of surface conditions, the photo-induced rotational torque of center-tapered helicoid azo-LCNs can be transferred to interacting surfaces, as manifested by steep slope climbing and paddle-like swimming multimodal motilities. Finally, the authors demonstrate continuous curvilinear guidance of soft locomotors, bypassing obstacles and reaching desired destinations through real-time on-demand photo-steering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun‐Chan Choi
- School of Electronic and Electrical EngineeringKyungpook National University41566DaeguRepublic of Korea
- Soft Hybrid Materials Research CenterKorea Institute of Science and Technology02792SeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Jisoo Jeon
- Program in Environmental and Polymer EngineeringInha University22212IncheonRepublic of Korea
| | - Jae‐Won Lee
- School of Electronic and Electrical EngineeringKyungpook National University41566DaeguRepublic of Korea
| | - Asad Nauman
- School of Electronic and Electrical EngineeringKyungpook National University41566DaeguRepublic of Korea
| | - Jae Gyeong Lee
- Department of Organic and Nano EngineeringHanyang University04763SeoulRepublic of Korea
- Human‐Tech Convergence ProgramHanyang University04763SeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Woongbi Cho
- Department of Organic and Nano EngineeringHanyang University04763SeoulRepublic of Korea
- Human‐Tech Convergence ProgramHanyang University04763SeoulRepublic of Korea
| | - Chanwoo Lee
- School of Electronic and Electrical EngineeringKyungpook National University41566DaeguRepublic of Korea
| | - Young‐Min Cho
- School of Electronics EngineeringKyungpook National University41566DaeguRepublic of Korea
| | - Jeong Jae Wie
- Department of Organic and Nano EngineeringHanyang University04763SeoulRepublic of Korea
- Human‐Tech Convergence ProgramHanyang University04763SeoulRepublic of Korea
- Department of Chemical EngineeringHanyang University04763SeoulRepublic of Korea
- Institute of Nano Science and TechnologyHanyang University04763SeoulRepublic of Korea
- The Research Institute of Industrial ScienceHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
- The Michael M. Szwarc Polymer Research InstituteState University of New York College of Environmental Science and ForestrySyracuseNY13210USA
- Department of Chemical EngineeringState University of New York College of Enviromental Science and ForestrySyracuseNY13210USA
| | - Hak‐Rin Kim
- School of Electronic and Electrical EngineeringKyungpook National University41566DaeguRepublic of Korea
- School of Electronics EngineeringKyungpook National University41566DaeguRepublic of Korea
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16
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Ge D, Dai Y, Li K. Self-Oscillating Liquid Crystal Elastomer Helical Spring Oscillator with Combined Tension and Torsion. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3294. [PMID: 37571189 PMCID: PMC10422366 DOI: 10.3390/polym15153294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-oscillation is the autonomous maintenance of continuous periodic motion through energy absorption from non-periodic external stimuli, making it particularly attractive for fabricating soft robots, energy-absorbing devices, mass transport devices, and so on. Inspired by the self-oscillating system that presents high degrees of freedom and diverse complex oscillatory motions, we created a self-oscillating helical spring oscillator with combined tension and torsion under steady illumination, among which a mass block and a liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) helical spring made with LCE wire are included. Considering the well-established helical spring model and the dynamic LCE model, a nonlinear dynamic model of the LCE helical spring oscillator under steady illumination is proposed. From numerical calculation, the helical spring oscillator upon exposure to steady illumination possesses two motion regimes, which are the static regime and the self-tension-torsion regime. Contraction of the LCE wire under illumination is necessary to generate the self-tension-torsion of the helical spring oscillator, with its continuous periodic motion being maintained by the mutual balance between light energy input and damping dissipation. Additionally, the critical conditions for triggering the self-tension-torsion, as well as the vital system parameters affecting its frequencies and amplitudes of the translation and the rotation, were investigated in detail. This self-tension-torsion helical spring oscillator is unique in its customizable mechanical properties via its structural design, small material strain but large structural displacement, and ease of manufacture. We envision a future of novel designs for soft robotics, energy harvesters, active machinery, and so on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dali Ge
- School of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China; (D.G.); (Y.D.)
- Institute of Advanced Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Yuntong Dai
- School of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China; (D.G.); (Y.D.)
| | - Kai Li
- School of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China; (D.G.); (Y.D.)
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17
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Khan S, Dutta B, Naaz S, Choudhury A, Cazade PA, Kiely E, Guerin S, Medishetty R, Mir MH. Regulating photosalient behavior in dynamic metal-organic crystals. Commun Chem 2023; 6:150. [PMID: 37452109 PMCID: PMC10349121 DOI: 10.1038/s42004-023-00951-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Dynamic photoactuating crystals have become a sensation due to their potential applications in developing smart medical devices, molecular machines, artificial muscles, flexible electronics actuators, probes and microrobots. Here we report the synthesis of two iso-structural metal-organic crystals, [Zn(4-ohbz)2(4-nvp)2] (1) and [Cd(4-ohbz)2(4-nvp)2] (2) {H4-ohbz = 4-hydroxy benzoic acid; 4-nvp = 4-(1-naphthylvinyl)pyridine} which undergo topochemical [2 + 2] cycloaddition under UV irradiation as well as sunlight to generate a dimerized product of discrete metal-complex [Zn(4-ohbz)2(rctt-4-pncb)] {rctt-4-pncb = 1,3-bis(4'-pyridyl)-2,4-bis(naphthyl)cyclobutane} (1') and one-dimensional coordination polymer (1D CP) [Cd(4-ohbz)2(rctt-4-pncb)] (2') respectively, in a single-crystal-to-single-crystal (SCSC) process. The Zn-based compound demonstrates photosalient behaviour, wherein crystals show jumping, splitting, rolling, and swelling upon UV irradiation. However, the Cd-based crystals do not show such behaviour maintaining the initial supramolecular packing and space group. Thus the photomechanical behaviour can be induced by choosing a suitable metal ion. The above findings are thoroughly validated by quantitative density functional theory (DFT) calculations which show that the Zn-based crystal shifts towards an orthorhombic structure to resolve the anisotropic UV-induced mechanical strain. Furthermore, the mechano-structure-property relationship has been established by complimentary nanoindentation measurements, which are in-line with the DFT-predicted single crystal values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samim Khan
- Department of Chemistry, Aliah University, New Town, Kolkata, 700156, India
| | - Basudeb Dutta
- Department of Chemistry, Aliah University, New Town, Kolkata, 700156, India
| | - Sanobar Naaz
- Department of Chemistry, Aliah University, New Town, Kolkata, 700156, India
| | - Aditya Choudhury
- Department of Chemistry, IIT Bhilai, Sejbahar, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, 492015, India
| | - Pierre-Andre Cazade
- Department of Physics, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, V94 T9PX, Ireland
- SSPC, The Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Pharmaceuticals, University of Limerick, Limerick, V94 T9PX, Ireland
| | - Emma Kiely
- Department of Physics, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, V94 T9PX, Ireland
| | - Sarah Guerin
- Department of Physics, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, V94 T9PX, Ireland.
- SSPC, The Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Pharmaceuticals, University of Limerick, Limerick, V94 T9PX, Ireland.
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18
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Liu J, Yuan Z, Zhao J, Dai Y, Li K. Self-Sustained Oscillation of Electrothermally Responsive Liquid Crystal Elastomer Film in Steady-State Circuits. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2814. [PMID: 37447460 DOI: 10.3390/polym15132814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-excited oscillations have the advantages of absorbing energy from a stable environment and Self-control; therefore, Self-excited motion patterns have broader applications in micro devices, autonomous robots, sensors and energy-generating devices. In this paper, a Self-sustained curling liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) film-mass system is proposed on the basis of electrothermally responsive materials, which can realize Self-oscillation under a steady-state current. Based on the contact model and dynamic LCE model, a nonlinear dynamics model of LCE film in steady-state circuits is developed and numerical calculations are carried out using the Runge-Kutta method. Through numerical calculations, it is demonstrated that LCE film-mass systems have two motion patterns in steady-state circuits: namely, a Self-oscillation pattern and a stationary pattern. Self-sustained curling of LCE film originates from the fact that the energy absorbed by the system exceeds the energy dissipated due to the damping effect. In addition, the critical conditions for triggering Self-oscillation and the effects of several key dimensionless system parameters on the amplitude and period of Self-oscillation are investigated in detail. Calculation results show that the height of electrolyte solution, gravitational acceleration, elastic modulus of LCE film, limit temperature, curvature coefficient, thermal shrinkage coefficient and damping factor all have a modulating effect on the amplitude and period of Self-oscillation. This research may deepen the understanding of Self-excited oscillation, with promising applications in energy harvesting, power generation, monitoring, soft robotics, medical devices, and micro and nano devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junxiu Liu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Building Structure and Underground Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Zongsong Yuan
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Junjie Zhao
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Yuntong Dai
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Kai Li
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Building Structure and Underground Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
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19
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Chen M, Gao M, Bai L, Zheng H, Qi HJ, Zhou K. Recent Advances in 4D Printing of Liquid Crystal Elastomers. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2209566. [PMID: 36461147 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are renowned for their large, reversible, and anisotropic shape change in response to various external stimuli due to their lightly cross-linked polymer networks with an oriented mesogen direction, thus showing great potential for applications in robotics, bio-medics, electronics, optics, and energy. To fully take advantage of the anisotropic stimuli-responsive behaviors of LCEs, it is preferable to achieve a locally controlled mesogen alignment into monodomain orientations. In recent years, the application of 4D printing to LCEs opens new doors for simultaneously programming the mesogen alignment and the 3D geometry, offering more opportunities and higher feasibility for the fabrication of 4D-printed LCE objects with desirable stimuli-responsive properties. Here, the state-of-the-art advances in 4D printing of LCEs are reviewed, with emphasis on both the mechanisms and potential applications. First, the fundamental properties of LCEs and the working principles of the representative 4D printing techniques are briefly introduced. Then, the fabrication of LCEs by 4D printing techniques and the advantages over conventional manufacturing methods are demonstrated. Finally, perspectives on the current challenges and potential development trends toward the 4D printing of LCEs are discussed, which may shed light on future research directions in this new field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Chen
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Ming Gao
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Lichun Bai
- School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China
| | - Han Zheng
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - H Jerry Qi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, 30332, USA
| | - Kun Zhou
- Singapore Centre for 3D Printing, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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20
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Khandagale P, Breitzman T, Majidi C, Dayal K. Statistical field theory for nonlinear elasticity of polymer networks with excluded volume interactions. Phys Rev E 2023; 107:064501. [PMID: 37464704 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.107.064501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Polymer networks formed by cross linking flexible polymer chains are ubiquitous in many natural and synthetic soft-matter systems. Current micromechanics models generally do not account for excluded volume interactions except, for instance, through imposing a phenomenological incompressibility constraint at the continuum scale. This work aims to examine the role of excluded volume interactions on the mechanical response. The approach is based on the framework of the self-consistent statistical field theory of polymers, which provides an efficient mesoscale approach that enables the accounting of excluded volume effects without the expense of large-scale molecular modeling. A mesoscale representative volume element is populated with multiple interacting chains, and the macroscale nonlinear elastic deformation is imposed by mapping the end-to-end vectors of the chains by this deformation. In the absence of excluded volume interactions, it recovers the closed-form results of the classical theory of rubber elasticity. With excluded volume interactions, the model is solved numerically in three dimensions using a finite element method to obtain the energy, stresses, and linearized moduli under imposed macroscale deformation. Highlights of the numerical study include: (i) the linearized Poisson's ratio is very close to the incompressible limit without a phenomenological imposition of incompressibility; (ii) despite the harmonic Gaussian chain as a starting point, there is an emergent strain-softening and strain-stiffening response that is characteristic of real polymer networks, driven by the interplay between the entropy and the excluded volume interactions; and (iii) the emergence of a deformation-sensitive localization instability at large excluded volumes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratik Khandagale
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
| | - Timothy Breitzman
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433, USA
| | - Carmel Majidi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
| | - Kaushik Dayal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Center for Nonlinear Analysis, Department of Mathematical Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Pittsburgh Quantum Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, USA
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21
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Zubritskaya I, Cichelero R, Faniayeu I, Martella D, Nocentini S, Rudquist P, Wiersma DS, Brongersma ML. Dynamically Tunable Optical Cavities with Embedded Nematic Liquid Crystalline Networks. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2209152. [PMID: 36683324 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202209152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Tunable metal-insulator-metal (MIM) Fabry-Pérot (FP) cavities that can dynamically control light enable novel sensing, imaging and display applications. However, the realization of dynamic cavities incorporating stimuli-responsive materials poses a significant engineering challenge. Current approaches rely on refractive index modulation and suffer from low dynamic tunability, high losses, and limited spectral ranges, and require liquid and hazardous materials for operation. To overcome these challenges, a new tuning mechanism employing reversible mechanical adaptations of a polymer network is proposed, and dynamic tuning of optical resonances is demonstrated. Solid-state temperature-responsive optical coatings are developed by preparing a monodomain nematic liquid crystalline network (LCN) and are incorporated between metallic mirrors to form active optical microcavities. LCN microcavities offer large, reversible and highly linear spectral tuning of FP resonances reaching wavelength-shifts up to 40 nm via thermomechanical actuation while featuring outstanding repeatability and precision over more than 100 heating-cooling cycles. This degree of tunability allows for reversible switching between the reflective and the absorbing states of the device over the entire visible and near-infrared spectral regions, reaching large changes in reflectance with modulation efficiency ΔR = 79%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Zubritskaya
- Geballe Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Stanford University, 476 Lomita Mall, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
- Department of Physics, University of Gothenburg, Origovägen 6B, Gothenburg, 41296, Sweden
| | - Rafael Cichelero
- Department of Physics, University of Gothenburg, Origovägen 6B, Gothenburg, 41296, Sweden
| | - Ihar Faniayeu
- Department of Physics, University of Gothenburg, Origovägen 6B, Gothenburg, 41296, Sweden
| | - Daniele Martella
- European Laboratory for Non-Linear Spectroscopy (LENS), University of Florence, via Nello Carrara 1, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica (INRiM), Strada delle Cacce 91, Torino, 10135, Italy
| | - Sara Nocentini
- European Laboratory for Non-Linear Spectroscopy (LENS), University of Florence, via Nello Carrara 1, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica (INRiM), Strada delle Cacce 91, Torino, 10135, Italy
| | - Per Rudquist
- Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience - MC2, Chalmers University of Technology, Kemivägen 9, Gothenburg, 41296, Sweden
| | - Diederik Sybolt Wiersma
- European Laboratory for Non-Linear Spectroscopy (LENS), University of Florence, via Nello Carrara 1, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica (INRiM), Strada delle Cacce 91, Torino, 10135, Italy
- Physics and Astronomy Department, University of Florence, via G. Sansone 1, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Italy
| | - Mark L Brongersma
- Geballe Laboratory for Advanced Materials, Stanford University, 476 Lomita Mall, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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22
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Zhao Y, Hong Y, Qi F, Chi Y, Su H, Yin J. Self-Sustained Snapping Drives Autonomous Dancing and Motion in Free-Standing Wavy Rings. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2207372. [PMID: 36366927 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202207372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Harnessing snapping, an instability phenomenon observed in nature (e.g., Venus flytraps), for autonomy has attracted growing interest in autonomous soft robots. However, achieving self-sustained snapping and snapping-driven autonomous motions in soft robots remains largely unexplored. Here, harnessing bistable, ribbon ring-like structures for realizing self-sustained snapping in a library of soft liquid-crystal elastomer wavy rings under constant thermal and photothermal actuation are reported. The self-sustained snapping induces continuous ring flipping that drives autonomous dancing or crawling motions on the ground and underwater. The 3D, free-standing wavy rings employ either a highly symmetric or symmetry-broken twisted shape with tunable geometric asymmetries. It is found that the former favors periodic self-dancing motion in place due to isotropic friction, while the latter shows a directional crawling motion along the predefined axis of symmetry during fabrication due to asymmetric friction. It shows that the crawling speed can be tuned by the geometric asymmetries with a peak speed achieved at the highest geometric asymmetry. Lastly, it is shown that the autonomous crawling ring can also adapt its body shape to pass through a confined space that is over 30% narrower than its body size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Zhao
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Yaoye Hong
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Fangjie Qi
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Yinding Chi
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Hao Su
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Jie Yin
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
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23
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Liu J, Zhao J, Wu H, Dai Y, Li K. Self-Oscillating Curling of a Liquid Crystal Elastomer Beam under Steady Light. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15020344. [PMID: 36679225 PMCID: PMC9863816 DOI: 10.3390/polym15020344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-oscillation absorbs energy from a steady environment to maintain its own continuous motion, eliminating the need to carry a power supply and controller, which will make the system more lightweight and promising for applications in energy harvesting, soft robotics, and microdevices. In this paper, we present a self-oscillating curling liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) beam-mass system, which is placed on a table and can self-oscillate under steady light. Unlike other self-sustaining systems, the contact surface of the LCE beam with the tabletop exhibits a continuous change in size during self-sustaining curling, resulting in a dynamic boundary problem. Based on the dynamic LCE model, we establish a nonlinear dynamic model of the self-oscillating curling LCE beam considering the dynamic boundary conditions, and numerically calculate its dynamic behavior using the Runge-Kutta method. The existence of two motion patterns in the LCE beam-mass system under steady light are proven by numerical calculation, namely self-curling pattern and stationary pattern. When the energy input to the system exceeds the energy dissipated by air damping, the LCE beam undergoes self-oscillating curling. Furthermore, we investigate the effects of different dimensionless parameters on the critical conditions, the amplitude and the period of the self-curling of LCE beam. Results demonstrate that the light source height, curvature coefficient, light intensity, elastic modulus, damping factor, and gravitational acceleration can modulate the self-curling amplitude and period. The self-curling LCE beam system proposed in this study can be applied to autonomous robots, energy harvesters, and micro-instruments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junxiu Liu
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Building Structure and Underground Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Junjie Zhao
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Haiyang Wu
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Yuntong Dai
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Kai Li
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Building Structure and Underground Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
- College of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
- Correspondence:
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24
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Ge D, Dai Y, Li K. Self-Sustained Euler Buckling of an Optically Responsive Rod with Different Boundary Constraints. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15020316. [PMID: 36679197 PMCID: PMC9862129 DOI: 10.3390/polym15020316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-sustained oscillations can directly absorb energy from the constant environment to maintain its periodic motion by self-regulating. As a classical mechanical instability phenomenon, the Euler compression rod can rapidly release elastic strain energy and undergo large displacement during buckling. In addition, its boundary configuration is usually easy to be modulated. In this paper, we develop a self-sustained Euler buckling system based on optically responsive liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) rod with different boundary constraints. The buckling of LCE rod results from the light-induced expansion and compressive force, and the self-buckling is maintained by the energy competition between the damping dissipation and the net work done by the effective elastic force. Based on the dynamic LCE model, the governing equations for dynamic Euler buckling of the LCE rod is formulated, and the approximate admissible trigonometric functions and Runge-Kutta method are used to solve the dynamic Euler buckling. Under different illumination parameters, there exists two motion modes of the Euler rod: the static mode and the self-buckling mode, including alternating and unilateral self-buckling modes. The triggering conditions, frequency, and amplitude of the self-sustained Euler buckling can be modulated by several system parameters and boundary constraints. Results indicate that strengthening the boundary constraint can increase the frequency and reduce the amplitude. It is anticipated that this system may open new avenues for energy harvesters, signal sensors, mechano-logistic devices, and autonomous robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dali Ge
- School of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
- Institute of Advanced Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Yuntong Dai
- School of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Kai Li
- School of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
- Correspondence:
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25
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Park JE, Yoon S, Jeon J, Kim CR, Jhang S, Jeon T, Lee SG, Kim SM, Wie JJ. Multi-Modal Locomotion of Caenorhabditis elegans by Magnetic Reconfiguration of 3D Microtopography. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2203396. [PMID: 36316238 PMCID: PMC9798981 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202203396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Miniaturized untethered soft robots are recently exploited to imitate multi-modal curvilinear locomotion of living creatures that perceive change of surrounding environments. Herein, the use of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) is proposed as a microscale model capable of curvilinear locomotion with mechanosensing, controlled by magnetically reconfigured 3D microtopography. Static entropic microbarriers prevent C. elegans from randomly swimming with the omega turns and provide linear translational locomotion with velocity of ≈0.14 BL s-1 . This velocity varies from ≈0.09 (for circumventing movement) to ≈0.46 (for climbing) BL s-1 , depending on magnetic bending and twisting actuation coupled with assembly of microbarriers. Furthermore, different types of neuronal mutants prevent C. elegans from implementing certain locomotion modes, indicating the potential for investigating the correlation between neurons and mechanosensing functions. This strategy promotes a platform for the contactless manipulation of miniaturized biobots and initiates interdisciplinary research for investigating sensory neurons and human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Eun Park
- The Research Institute of Industrial ScienceHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
- Program in Environmental and Polymer EngineeringInha UniversityIncheon22212Republic of Korea
| | - Sunhee Yoon
- Department of Biological Sciences and BioengineeringInha UniversityIncheon22212Republic of Korea
| | - Jisoo Jeon
- Program in Environmental and Polymer EngineeringInha UniversityIncheon22212Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Ryean Kim
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of UlsanUlsan44610Republic of Korea
| | - Saebohm Jhang
- Program in Environmental and Polymer EngineeringInha UniversityIncheon22212Republic of Korea
| | - Tae‐Joon Jeon
- Department of Biological Sciences and BioengineeringInha UniversityIncheon22212Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Goo Lee
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of UlsanUlsan44610Republic of Korea
| | - Sun Min Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences and BioengineeringInha UniversityIncheon22212Republic of Korea
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringInha UniversityIncheon22212Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Jae Wie
- Department of Organic and Nano EngineeringHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
- Human‐Tech Convergence ProgramHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
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26
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Maghsoodi A, Bhattacharya K. Light-induced swirling and locomotion. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2022.0545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The design of remotely activated, untethered devices without onboard power is a continuing challenge in soft robotics. This work describes a method of generating a whirling motion in pre-stressed photomechanical liquid crystal elastomer fibres using steady illumination that can be exploited for propulsion and mixing. Photomechanical liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) can convert light directly into mechanical deformation, making them attractive candidates for soft actuators capable of remote and multi-mode actuation. We propose a three-dimensional multi-scale model of the nonlinear and non-local dynamics of fibres of photomechanical LCEs under illumination. We use the model to show that pre-stressed helix-like fibres immersed in a fluid can undergo a periodic whirling motion under steady illumination. We analyse the photo-driven spatio-temporal pattern and stability of the whirling deformation, and provide a parametric study. Unlike previous work on photo-driven periodic motion, this whirling motion does not exploit instabilities in the form of snap-through phenomena, or unilateral constraints as in rolling. More broadly, our work provides an unusual example of a physical system capable of periodic motion under steady stimulus that does not exploit instabilities. We finally show that such motion can be exploited in developing remote controlled bioinspired microswimmers and novel micromixers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameneh Maghsoodi
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Kaushik Bhattacharya
- Division of Engineering and Applied Science, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
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27
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Zhao R, Dai H, Yao H, Shi Y, Zhou G. Shape programmable magnetic pixel soft robot. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11415. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
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28
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Lan R, Bao J, Huang R, Wang Z, Zhang L, Shen C, Wang Q, Yang H. Amplifying Molecular Scale Rotary Motion: The Marriage of Overcrowded Alkene Molecular Motor with Liquid Crystals. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2109800. [PMID: 35732437 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202109800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Design and fabrication of macroscopic functional devices by molecular engineering is an emerging and effective strategy in exploration of advanced materials. Photoresponsive overcrowded alkene-based molecular motor (OAMM) is considered as one of the most promising molecular machines due to the unique rotary motion driven by light with high temporal and spatial precision. Amplifying the molecular rotary motions into macroscopic behaviors of photodirected systems links the molecular dynamics with macroscopic motions of materials, providing new opportunities to design novel materials and devices with a bottom-up strategy. In this review, recent developments of the light-responsive liquid crystal system triggered by OAMM will be summarized. The mechanism of amplification effect of liquid crystal matrix will be introduced first. Then progress of the OAMM-driven liquid crystal materials will be described including light-controlled photonic crystals, texture-tunable liquid crystal coating and microspheres, photoactuated soft robots, and dynamic optical devices. It is hoped that this review provides inspirations in design and exploration of light-driven soft matters and novel functional materials from molecular engineering to structural modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruochen Lan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
| | - Jinying Bao
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
| | - Rui Huang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, P. R. China
| | - Zizheng Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
| | - Lanying Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
| | - Chen Shen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
| | - Qian Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
| | - Huai Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, P. R. China
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29
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Confinement-Induced Fabrication of Liquid Crystalline Polymeric Fibers. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175639. [PMID: 36080405 PMCID: PMC9458136 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In aqueous media, liquid crystalline droplets typically form spherical shapes in order to minimize surface energy. Recently, non-spherical geometry has been reported using molecular self-assembly of surfactant-stabilized liquid crystalline oligomers, resulting in branched and randomly oriented filamentous networks. In this study, we report a polymerization of liquid crystalline polymeric fibers within a micro-mold. When liquid crystal oligomers are polymerized in freely suspended aqueous media, curvilinear and randomly networked filaments are obtained. When reactive liquid crystalline monomers are oligomerized in a micro-channel, however, highly aligned linear fibers are polymerized. Within a top-down microfabricated mold, a bottom-up molecular assembly was successfully achieved in a controlled manner by micro-confinement, suggesting a unique opportunity for the programming architecture of materials via a hybrid approach.
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30
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Fedele C, Ruoko TP, Kuntze K, Virkki M, Priimagi A. New tricks and emerging applications from contemporary azobenzene research. PHOTOCHEMICAL & PHOTOBIOLOGICAL SCIENCES : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE EUROPEAN PHOTOCHEMISTRY ASSOCIATION AND THE EUROPEAN SOCIETY FOR PHOTOBIOLOGY 2022; 21:1719-1734. [PMID: 35896915 DOI: 10.1007/s43630-022-00262-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Azobenzenes have many faces. They are well-known as dyes, but most of all, azobenzenes are versatile photoswitchable molecules with powerful photochemical properties. Azobenzene photochemistry has been extensively studied for decades, but only relatively recently research has taken a steer towards applications, ranging from photonics and robotics to photobiology. In this perspective, after an overview of the recent trends in the molecular design of azobenzenes, we highlight three research areas where the azobenzene photoswitches may bring about promising technological innovations: chemical sensing, organic transistors, and cell signaling. Ingenious molecular designs have enabled versatile control of azobenzene photochemical properties, which has in turn facilitated the development of chemical sensors and photoswitchable organic transistors. Finally, the power of azobenzenes in biology is exemplified by vision restoration and photactivation of neural signaling. Although the selected examples reveal only some of the faces of azobenzenes, we expect the fields presented to develop rapidly in the near future, and that azobenzenes will play a central role in this development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Fedele
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, Korkeakoulunkatu 3, FI-33720, Tampere, Finland
| | - Tero-Petri Ruoko
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, Korkeakoulunkatu 3, FI-33720, Tampere, Finland
| | - Kim Kuntze
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, Korkeakoulunkatu 3, FI-33720, Tampere, Finland
| | - Matti Virkki
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, Korkeakoulunkatu 3, FI-33720, Tampere, Finland
| | - Arri Priimagi
- Smart Photonic Materials, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Tampere University, Korkeakoulunkatu 3, FI-33720, Tampere, Finland.
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31
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Uchida J, Soberats B, Gupta M, Kato T. Advanced Functional Liquid Crystals. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2022; 34:e2109063. [PMID: 35034382 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202109063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystals have been intensively studied as functional materials. Recently, integration of various disciplines has led to new directions in the design of functional liquid-crystalline materials in the fields of energy, water, photonics, actuation, sensing, and biotechnology. Here, recent advances in functional liquid crystals based on polymers, supramolecular complexes, gels, colloids, and inorganic-based hybrids are reviewed, from design strategies to functionalization of these materials and interfaces. New insights into liquid crystals provided by significant progress in advanced measurements and computational simulations, which enhance new design and functionalization of liquid-crystalline materials, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junya Uchida
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | - Bartolome Soberats
- Department of Chemistry, University of the Balearic Islands, Cra. Valldemossa Km. 7.5, Palma de Mallorca, 07122, Spain
| | - Monika Gupta
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
| | - Takashi Kato
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8656, Japan
- Research Initiative for Supra-Materials, Shinshu University, Wakasato, Nagano, 380-8553, Japan
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32
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Twisting for soft intelligent autonomous robot in unstructured environments. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2200265119. [PMID: 35605115 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2200265119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
SignificanceAutonomy is crucial for soft robotics that are constructed of soft materials. It remains challenging to create autonomous soft robots that can intelligently interact with and adapt to changing environments without external controls. To do so, it often requires an analogical soft "brain" that integrates on-board sensing, control, computation, and decision-making. Here, we report an autonomous soft robot embodied with physical intelligence for decision-making via adaptive soft body-environment interactions and snap-through instability, without integrated sensing and external controls. This study harnesses physical intelligence as a new paradigm for designing autonomous soft robots that can interact intelligently with their environments, thus potentially reducing the burdens on the conventional integrated sensing, control, computations, and decision-making systems in designing intelligent soft robots.
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33
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Hou J, Long G, Zhao W, Zhou G, Liu D, Broer DJ, Feringa BL, Chen J. Phototriggered Complex Motion by Programmable Construction of Light-Driven Molecular Motors in Liquid Crystal Networks. J Am Chem Soc 2022; 144:6851-6860. [PMID: 35380815 PMCID: PMC9026258 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c01060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Recent developments
in artificial molecular machines have enabled
precisely controlled molecular motion, which allows several distinct
mechanical operations at the nanoscale. However, harnessing and amplifying
molecular motion along multiple length scales to induce macroscopic
motion are still major challenges and comprise an important next step
toward future actuators and soft robotics. The key to addressing this
challenge relies on effective integration of synthetic molecular machines
in a hierarchically aligned structure so numerous individual molecular
motions can be collected in a cooperative way and amplified to higher
length scales and eventually lead to macroscopic motion. Here, we
report the complex motion of liquid crystal networks embedded with
molecular motors triggered by single-wavelength illumination. By design,
both racemic and enantiomerically pure molecular motors are programmably
integrated into liquid crystal networks with a defined orientation.
The motors have multiple functions acting as cross-linkers, actuators,
and chiral dopants inside the network. The collective rotary motion
of motors resulted in multiple types of motion of the polymeric film,
including bending, wavy motion, fast unidirectional movement on surfaces,
and synchronized helical motion with different handedness, paving
the way for the future design of responsive materials with enhanced
complex functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Hou
- SCNU-UG International Joint Laboratory of Molecular Science and Displays, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.,Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Guiying Long
- SCNU-UG International Joint Laboratory of Molecular Science and Displays, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- SCNU-TUE Joint lab of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Information Materials and Technology & Institute of Electronic Paper Displays, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Guofu Zhou
- SCNU-UG International Joint Laboratory of Molecular Science and Displays, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.,SCNU-TUE Joint lab of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Information Materials and Technology & Institute of Electronic Paper Displays, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Danqing Liu
- SCNU-TUE Joint lab of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Information Materials and Technology & Institute of Electronic Paper Displays, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.,Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk J Broer
- SCNU-TUE Joint lab of Device Integrated Responsive Materials (DIRM), Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Optical Information Materials and Technology & Institute of Electronic Paper Displays, South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.,Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Den Dolech 2, Eindhoven 5600 MB, The Netherlands
| | - Ben L Feringa
- SCNU-UG International Joint Laboratory of Molecular Science and Displays, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China.,Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, 9747AG Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jiawen Chen
- SCNU-UG International Joint Laboratory of Molecular Science and Displays, National Center for International Research on Green Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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34
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Zhao R, Dai H, Yao H. Liquid-Metal Magnetic Soft Robot With Reprogrammable Magnetization and Stiffness. IEEE Robot Autom Lett 2022. [DOI: 10.1109/lra.2022.3151164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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35
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Abstract
Progress in optical manipulation has stimulated remarkable advances in a wide range of fields, including materials science, robotics, medical engineering, and nanotechnology. This Review focuses on an emerging class of optical manipulation techniques, termed heat-mediated optical manipulation. In comparison to conventional optical tweezers that rely on a tightly focused laser beam to trap objects, heat-mediated optical manipulation techniques exploit tailorable optothermo-matter interactions and rich mass transport dynamics to enable versatile control of matter of various compositions, shapes, and sizes. In addition to conventional tweezing, more distinct manipulation modes, including optothermal pulling, nudging, rotating, swimming, oscillating, and walking, have been demonstrated to enhance the functionalities using simple and low-power optics. We start with an introduction to basic physics involved in heat-mediated optical manipulation, highlighting major working mechanisms underpinning a variety of manipulation techniques. Next, we categorize the heat-mediated optical manipulation techniques based on different working mechanisms and discuss working modes, capabilities, and applications for each technique. We conclude this Review with our outlook on current challenges and future opportunities in this rapidly evolving field of heat-mediated optical manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihan Chen
- Materials Science & Engineering Program, Texas Materials Institute, and Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Jingang Li
- Materials Science & Engineering Program, Texas Materials Institute, and Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
| | - Yuebing Zheng
- Materials Science & Engineering Program, Texas Materials Institute, and Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, United States
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36
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Ghoreishi SF, Sochol RD, Gandhi D, Krieger A, Fuge M. Physics-Informed Modeling and Control of Multi-Actuator Soft Catheter Robots. Front Robot AI 2022; 8:772628. [PMID: 35096981 PMCID: PMC8795879 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2021.772628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Catheter-based endovascular interventional procedures have become increasingly popular in recent years as they are less invasive and patients spend less time in the hospital with less recovery time and less pain. These advantages have led to a significant growth in the number of procedures that are performed annually. However, it is still challenging to position a catheter in a target vessel branch within the highly complicated and delicate vascular structure. In fact, vessel tortuosity and angulation, which cause difficulties in catheterization and reaching the target site, have been reported as the main causes of failure in endovascular procedures. Maneuverability of a catheter for intravascular navigation is a key to reaching the target area; ability of a catheter to move within the target vessel during trajectory tracking thus affects to a great extent the length and success of the procedure. To address this issue, this paper models soft catheter robots with multiple actuators and provides a time-dependent model for characterizing the dynamics of multi-actuator soft catheter robots. Built on this model, an efficient and scalable optimization-based framework is developed for guiding the catheter to pass through arteries and reach the target where an aneurysm is located. The proposed framework models the deflection of the multi-actuator soft catheter robot and develops a control strategy for movement of catheter along a desired trajectory. This provides a simulation-based framework for selection of catheters prior to endovascular catheterization procedures, assuring that given a fixed design, the catheter is able to reach the target location. The results demonstrate the benefits that can be achieved by design and control of catheters with multiple number of actuators for navigation into small vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyede Fatemeh Ghoreishi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Khoury College of Computer Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Ryan D. Sochol
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Dheeraj Gandhi
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Axel Krieger
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Mark Fuge
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
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Jiang J, Han L, Ge F, Xiao Y, Cheng R, Tong X, Zhao Y. Porous Liquid Crystalline Networks with Hydrogel-Like Actuation and Reconfigurable Function. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 61:e202116689. [PMID: 34970834 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202116689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
A porous liquid crystalline network (LCN), prepared using a template method, was found to exhibit peculiar actuation functions. The creation of porosity makes the initially hydrophobic LCN behave like a hydrogel, capable of absorbing a large volume of water (up to ten times the sample size of LCN). When the amount of absorbed water is relatively small (about 100% swelling ratio), the porous LCN displays anisotropic swelling in water and, in the same time, the retained uniaxial alignment of mesogens ensures thermally induced shape change associated with LC-isotropic phase transition. Combining the characteristic actuation mechanisms of LCN (order-disorder transition of mesogens) and hydrogel (water absorption), such porous LCN can be explored for versatile stimuli-triggered shape transformations. Moreover, the porosity enables loading/removal/reloading of functional fillers such as ionic liquid, photothermal dye and fluorophore, which imparts a same porous LCN actuator with reconfigurable functions such as ionic conductivity, light-driven locomotion, and emissive color.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Jiang
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke, Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Sherbrooke, J1K2R1, Sherbrooke, CANADA
| | - Li Han
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke, Chemistry, CANADA
| | - Feijie Ge
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke, Chemistry, CANADA
| | - Yaoyu Xiao
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke, Chemistry, CANADA
| | - Ruidong Cheng
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke, Chemistry, CANADA
| | - Xia Tong
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke, Chemistry, CANADA
| | - Yue Zhao
- University of Sherbrooke, Department of Chemistry, Blvd. Universite, J1K 2R1, Sherbrooke, CANADA
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38
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Jiang J, Han L, Ge F, Xiao Y, Cheng R, Tong X, Zhao Y. Porous Liquid Crystalline Networks with Hydrogel‐Like Actuation and Reconfigurable Function. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.202116689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Jiang
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke Chemistry Department of ChemistryUniversity of Sherbrooke J1K2R1 Sherbrooke CANADA
| | - Li Han
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke Chemistry CANADA
| | - Feijie Ge
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke Chemistry CANADA
| | - Yaoyu Xiao
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke Chemistry CANADA
| | - Ruidong Cheng
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke Chemistry CANADA
| | - Xia Tong
- Université de Sherbrooke: Universite de Sherbrooke Chemistry CANADA
| | - Yue Zhao
- University of Sherbrooke Department of Chemistry Blvd. Universite J1K 2R1 Sherbrooke CANADA
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Zhu QL, Dai CF, Wagner D, Khoruzhenko O, Hong W, Breu J, Zheng Q, Wu ZL. Patterned Electrode Assisted One-Step Fabrication of Biomimetic Morphing Hydrogels with Sophisticated Anisotropic Structures. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:e2102353. [PMID: 34705341 PMCID: PMC8693068 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202102353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Anisotropic structures are ubiquitous in nature, affording fascinating morphing behaviors. Biomimetic morphing materials can be developed by spatially controlling the orientations of molecules or nanofillers that produce anisotropic responses and internal stresses under external stimuli. However, it remains a serious challenge to fabricate materials with sophisticated anisotropic architectures. Here, a facile strategy to fabricate morphing hydrogels with elaborately ordered structures of nanosheets, which are oriented under distributed electric field and immobilized by polymerization to form a poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) matrix, is proposed. Diverse sophisticated anisotropic structures are obtained by engineering the electric field through the patterns and relative locations of the electrodes. Upon heating, the monolithic hydrogels with through-thickness and/or in-plane gradients in orientation of the nanosheets deform into various three-dimensional configurations. After incorporating gold nanoparticles, the hydrogels become photoresponsive and capable of programmable motions, for example, dynamic twisting and flipping under spatiotemporal stimuli. Such a strategy of using patterned electrodes to generate distributed electric field should be applicable to systems of liquid crystals or charged particles/molecules to direct orientation or electrophoresis and form functional structures. The biomimetically architectured hydrogels would be ideal materials to develop artificial muscles, soft actuators/robots, and biomedical devices with versatile applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Li Zhu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and FunctionalizationDepartment of Polymer Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Chen Fei Dai
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and FunctionalizationDepartment of Polymer Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Daniel Wagner
- Bavarian Polymer Institute and Department of ChemistryUniversity of BayreuthUniversitätsstrasse 30Bayreuth95440Germany
| | - Olena Khoruzhenko
- Bavarian Polymer Institute and Department of ChemistryUniversity of BayreuthUniversitätsstrasse 30Bayreuth95440Germany
| | - Wei Hong
- Department of Mechanics and Aerospace EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
| | - Josef Breu
- Bavarian Polymer Institute and Department of ChemistryUniversity of BayreuthUniversitätsstrasse 30Bayreuth95440Germany
| | - Qiang Zheng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and FunctionalizationDepartment of Polymer Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
| | - Zi Liang Wu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Synthesis and FunctionalizationDepartment of Polymer Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310027China
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Wang DH, Lee KM, Lee DH, Baczkowski M, Lee JG, Wie JJ, Tan LS. Intermolecular Interactions and Intramolecular Motions in Photomechanical Effect: Nonlinear Thermo- and Photomechanical Behaviors of Azobenzene-Functionalized Amide-Imide Block Copolymers. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:48127-48140. [PMID: 34601861 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c14511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
To discern multiple intertwined effects, a set of azobenzene-functionalized amide-imide block copolymers, azo(PA-co-PI)-x, where x is amide-block content, viz., [azoPA] = 25, 50, 75 mol %, was synthesized from 2,2-bis{4-[4-(4-aminophenyldiazenyl)phenoxy]phenyl}propane(azoBPA), 4,4'-oxydibenzoyl chloride (ODBC), and 4,4'-oxydiphthalic anhydride (OPDA). Including homopolymers (azoPA and azoPI), this series of amorphous azopolymers possesses a high glass-transition temperature (Tg > 210 °C) and a modulus (E' ∼ 1.23-2.50 GPa). Their photobending (ca. 23-90°) and photostress (ca. 250-380 kPa) were assessed in the form of cantilevers with a linearly polarized 445 nm light. Nonlinear composition/[azoPA] dependencies of the thermo- and photomechanical properties are correlated. As [azoPA] increases from 0 mol %; Tg, E', photostress, and photobending angle initially decrease to reach four separate minima for azo(PA-co-PI)-50; and then all increase with a higher [azoPA]. The trend considerations of film density, dynamic thermomechanical, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), and ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) measurements implicate that (i) intermolecular association and intramolecular segmental mobility collectively influence the photomechanical outcomes and (ii) two types of hydrogen bonding (HB), namely, amide-amide [HB-AA] and amide-imide [HB-AI] coexist in azo(PA-co-PI)-x copolymers, with [HB-AI] being largely responsible for photomechanical outcomes of azo(PA-co-PI)-x with [azoPA] <40-50 mol %, and [HB-AA] for [azoPA] >40-50 mol %. We hypothesize that the "U-shaped" photomechanical effect apparently stems from the cooperative "unzipping" of H bonds in the [HB-AA]* excited state with H bonds in [HB-AI]* being stabilized by electrostatic interactions inherent in an excited intermolecular complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Wang
- Functional Materials Division, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, AFRL/RXA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433-7750, United States
| | - Kyung Min Lee
- Functional Materials Division, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, AFRL/RXA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433-7750, United States
| | - Deborah H Lee
- Functional Materials Division, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, AFRL/RXA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433-7750, United States
| | - Matthew Baczkowski
- Functional Materials Division, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, AFRL/RXA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433-7750, United States
| | - Jae Gyeong Lee
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22212, South Korea
| | - Jeong Jae Wie
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22212, South Korea
| | - Loon-Seng Tan
- Functional Materials Division, Materials & Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, AFRL/RXA, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio 45433-7750, United States
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41
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Ramgopal A, Peeketi AR, Annabattula RK. Numerical analysis and design of a light-driven liquid crystal polymer-based motorless miniature cart. SOFT MATTER 2021; 17:7714-7728. [PMID: 34342313 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm00411e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystal polymers are a special class of soft materials that can change their shape in response to numerous stimuli such as light, heat, electric field, and chemicals. The ability to tailor the deformed shape by tuning the alignment of mesogens across the film has enabled the researchers to generate unique motions from these liquid crystal polymer thin films. Simulating such motions might allow us to understand the underlying mechanisms better and could lead to novel designs. In this paper, we analyze the kinematics of the light-driven rolling motion of wheels fabricated with azobenzene-doped glassy liquid crystal networks through a one-way coupled transient photo-mechanical model. The influence of the isomerization parameters and the alignment of mesogens through the thickness on the kinematics of the wheel is presented. The developed model is further used to assess the feasibility of a light-actuated four-wheeled cart with wheels made of azobenzene-doped liquid crystal network thin films.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adithya Ramgopal
- Center for Responsive Soft Matter, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai 600036, India.
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42
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Shen H, Wu W, Liu S, Zhang J, Lam JWY, Tang BZ. Photodegradation‐Induced Turn‐On
Luminescence of
Tetraphenylethylene‐Based
Trithiocarbonate Polymers
†. CHINESE J CHEM 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/cjoc.202100247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hanchen Shen
- Department of Chemistry Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction and Institute of Advanced Study The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Wenjie Wu
- Department of Chemistry Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction and Institute of Advanced Study The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Shunjie Liu
- Department of Chemistry Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction and Institute of Advanced Study The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay Kowloon, Hong Kong China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Chemistry Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction and Institute of Advanced Study The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay Kowloon, Hong Kong China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital Southern Medical University Guangzhou Guangdong 510515 China
| | - Jacky W. Y. Lam
- Department of Chemistry Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction and Institute of Advanced Study The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay Kowloon, Hong Kong China
- HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute No. 9 Yuexing 1 st RD, South Area Hi‐tech Park, Nanshan Shenzhen Guangdong 518057 China
| | - Ben Zhong Tang
- Department of Chemistry Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction and Institute of Advanced Study The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay Kowloon, Hong Kong China
- HKUST Shenzhen Research Institute No. 9 Yuexing 1 st RD, South Area Hi‐tech Park, Nanshan Shenzhen Guangdong 518057 China
- Center for Aggregation‐induced Emission, SCUT‐HKUST Joint Research Institute, State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and Devices South China University of Technology Guangzhou Guangdong 510640 China
- HKUST AIE Institute Guangzhou Development District, Huangpu Guangzhou Guangdong 510530 China
- Guangdong‐Hong Kong‐Macao Joint laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Clear Water Bay Kowloon Hong Kong, China
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43
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Yin L, Miao TF, Cheng XX, Jiang ZC, Tong X, Zhang W, Zhao Y. Chiral Liquid Crystalline Elastomer for Twisting Motion without Preset Alignment of Mesogens. ACS Macro Lett 2021; 10:690-696. [PMID: 35549093 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.1c00286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
A chiral liquid crystalline elastomer (CLCE) actuator is demonstrated. The solution-cast polydomain film of CLCE can twist upon order-disorder phase transition without any preset alignment of mesogens. The handedness of twisting is specific to the molecular chirality of the chiral dopant in the CLCE structure, while the degree of twisting, in terms of helical pitch and diameter, is sensitive to the aspect ratio and the thickness of the CLCE strip as well as the chiral dopant content. This phenomenon appears to stem from the local twisting forces and deformations of randomly oriented helical domains, which cannot cancel each other out due to the chirality and thus result in a macroscopic "chiral" force acting on the CLCE actuator. This finding reveals a materials design for preparing twisting LCE actuators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yin
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Design and Precision Synthesis, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Design and Application, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Novel Functional Polymeric Materials, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou Industrial Park, Suzhou 215123, China
- Département de Chimie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Teng-Fei Miao
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Design and Precision Synthesis, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Design and Application, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Novel Functional Polymeric Materials, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou Industrial Park, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Cheng
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Design and Precision Synthesis, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Design and Application, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Novel Functional Polymeric Materials, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou Industrial Park, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Zhi-Chao Jiang
- Département de Chimie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Xia Tong
- Département de Chimie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Wei Zhang
- Suzhou Key Laboratory of Macromolecular Design and Precision Synthesis, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Polymer Design and Application, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Novel Functional Polymeric Materials, College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Soochow University, Suzhou Industrial Park, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Département de Chimie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec J1K 2R1, Canada
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Park JE, Won S, Cho W, Kim JG, Jhang S, Lee JG, Wie JJ. Fabrication and applications of stimuli‐responsive micro/nanopillar arrays. JOURNAL OF POLYMER SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/pol.20210311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Eun Park
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
- Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
| | - Sukyoung Won
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
- Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
| | - Woongbi Cho
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
- Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Gwang Kim
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
- Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
| | - Saebohm Jhang
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
- Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Gyeong Lee
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
- Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Jae Wie
- Department of Polymer Science and Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
- Program in Environmental and Polymer Engineering Inha University Incheon 22212 Republic of Korea
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45
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Hasebe S, Matsuura D, Mizukawa T, Asahi T, Koshima H. Light-Driven Crystal-Polymer Hybrid Actuators. Front Robot AI 2021; 8:684287. [PMID: 34055902 PMCID: PMC8155379 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2021.684287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, soft robots, which are made of soft and light organic materials, have attracted much attention because of improved safety for daily interactions with humans. Mechanically responsive materials that can move macroscopically by external stimuli, such as light and heat, have been studied extensively over the past two decades, and they are expected to be applicable to soft robots. Among them, mechanically responsive crystals are attractive in terms of a larger Young’s modulus and faster response speed compared with polymers and gels. However, it is impractical to use one piece of a single crystal as a crystal machine; it is difficult to control the size of crystals and obtain large crystals. Hybridization of crystals with polymers is one way to create actuators with more realistic movements. Herein, we report a hybrid crystal assembly in which plate-like salicylideneaniline crystals are aligned in polymer films by a “rubbing” technique, a new approach which is inexpensive, easy, and applicable to a wide range of crystals and polymers. The hybrid films bent reversibly upon alternate irradiation with ultraviolet and visible light. The hybrid films bent as fast as single crystals, even when larger than single-crystal size, showing great mechanical performance originating from the advantages of both molecular crystals (fast response time) and polymers (large size). This work enriches the development of light-driven hybrid actuators composed of molecular crystals and polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shodai Hasebe
- Department of Advanced Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Matsuura
- Department of Materials Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Takaaki Mizukawa
- Department of Materials Science and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Ehime University, Matsuyama, Japan
| | - Toru Asahi
- Department of Advanced Science and Engineering, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan.,Research Organization for Nano and Life Innovation, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideko Koshima
- Research Organization for Nano and Life Innovation, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
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Ng CSX, Tan MWM, Xu C, Yang Z, Lee PS, Lum GZ. Locomotion of Miniature Soft Robots. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2003558. [PMID: 33338296 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202003558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Miniature soft robots are mobile devices, which are made of smart materials that can be actuated by external stimuli to realize their desired functionalities. Here, the key advancements and challenges of the locomotion producible by miniature soft robots in micro- to centimeter length scales are highlighted. It is highly desirable to endow these small machines with dexterous locomotive gaits as it enables them to easily access highly confined and enclosed spaces via a noninvasive manner. If miniature soft robots are able to capitalize this unique ability, they will have the potential to transform a vast range of applications, including but not limited to, minimally invasive medical treatments, lab-on-chip applications, and search-and-rescue missions. The gaits of miniature soft robots are categorized into terrestrial, aquatic, and aerial locomotion. Except for the centimeter-scale robots that can perform aerial locomotion, the discussions in this report are centered around soft robots that are in the micro- to millimeter length scales. Under each category of locomotion, prospective methods and strategies that can improve their gait performances are also discussed. This report provides critical analyses and discussions that can inspire future strategies to make miniature soft robots significantly more agile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Shan Xian Ng
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Matthew Wei Ming Tan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Changyu Xu
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Zilin Yang
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Pooi See Lee
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Guo Zhan Lum
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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47
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Xiong J, Chen J, Lee PS. Functional Fibers and Fabrics for Soft Robotics, Wearables, and Human-Robot Interface. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2002640. [PMID: 33025662 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202002640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Soft robotics inspired by the movement of living organisms, with excellent adaptability and accuracy for accomplishing tasks, are highly desirable for efficient operations and safe interactions with human. With the emerging wearable electronics, higher tactility and skin affinity are pursued for safe and user-friendly human-robot interactions. Fabrics interlocked by fibers perform traditional static functions such as warming, protection, and fashion. Recently, dynamic fibers and fabrics are favorable to deliver active stimulus responses such as sensing and actuating abilities for soft-robots and wearables. First, the responsive mechanisms of fiber/fabric actuators and their performances under various external stimuli are reviewed. Fiber/yarn-based artificial muscles for soft-robots manipulation and assistance in human motion are discussed, as well as smart clothes for improving human perception. Second, the geometric designs, fabrications, mechanisms, and functions of fibers/fabrics for sensing and energy harvesting from the human body and environments are summarized. Effective integration between the electronic components with garments, human skin, and living organisms is illustrated, presenting multifunctional platforms with self-powered potential for human-robot interactions and biomedicine. Lastly, the relationships between robotic/wearable fibers/fabrics and the external stimuli, together with the challenges and possible routes for revolutionizing the robotic fibers/fabrics and wearables in this new era are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqing Xiong
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Jian Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
| | - Pooi See Lee
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, 639798, Singapore
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48
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Li K, Chen Z, Wang Z, Cai S. Self-sustained eversion or inversion of a thermally responsive torus. Phys Rev E 2021; 103:033004. [PMID: 33862796 DOI: 10.1103/physreve.103.033004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
When a cylindrical rod is placed on a flat and hot surface with a constant temperature, it can reach a steady state after certain time. In the steady state, though the temperature field inside the rod is inhomogeneous, it does not change with time. The inhomogeneous temperature change in the rod may induce inhomogeneous thermal expansion in it. Recent experiments have determined that if the rod is slightly curved, the inhomogeneous thermal expansion in the rod can drive its continuous and self-sustained rolling on a hot surface. It has been further shown that if the rod is bent to a closed torus and placed on a hot surface, the torus everts or inverts continuously due to the cross-coupling between the thermal field and the cyclic rotation. Such cyclic eversion or inversion of a torus can be regarded as a zero-elastic-energy mode because both the elastic energy and the shape of the torus remain unchanged during the rotation. In this article, we develop a coupled mechanics theory to model the continuous self-sustained eversion or inversion of a viscoelastic torus on a hot surface. We hope our modeling will inspire more novel designs of elastic motors being capable of zero-energy mode motion and help to quantitatively predict their performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Li
- Department of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China.,Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Zengfu Chen
- Department of Civil Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China
| | - Zhijian Wang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Shengqiang Cai
- Materials Science and Engineering Program, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA.,Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
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49
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Babaei M, Gao J, Clement A, Dayal K, Shankar MR. Torque-dense photomechanical actuation. SOFT MATTER 2021; 17:1258-1266. [PMID: 33283820 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm01352h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Contactless actuation powered using light is shown to generate torque densities approaching 10 N m kg-1 at angular velocities ∼102 rad s-1: metrics that compare favorably against tethered electromechanical systems. This is possible even though the extinction of actinic light limits the characteristic thickness of photoresponse in polymers to tens of μm. Confinement of molecularly patterned developable shells fabricated from azobenzene-functionalized liquid crystalline polymers encodes torque-dense photoactuation. Photostrain gradients from unstructured irradiation segment this geometry into two oppositely curved regions connected by a curved crease. A monolithic curved shell spontaneously bifurcates into a jointed, arm-like mechanism that generates flexure over sweep angles exceeding a radian. Strain focusing at the crease is hierarchical: an integral crease nucleates at smaller magnitudes of the prebiased curvature, while a crease decorated with point-like defects emerges at larger curvatures. The phase-space of morphogenesis is traceable to the competition between stretch and bending energies and is parameterizable as a function of the geometry. The framework for generating repetitive torque-dense actuation from slender light-powered actuators holds broader implications for the design of soft, remotely operated machines. Here, it is harnessed in illustrative mechanisms including levers, lifters and grabbers that are powered and regulated exclusively using light.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnoush Babaei
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Junfeng Gao
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Arul Clement
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Kaushik Dayal
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - M Ravi Shankar
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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50
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Tong F, Kitagawa D, Bushnak I, Al-Kaysi RO, Bardeen CJ. Light-Powered Autonomous Flagella-Like Motion of Molecular Crystal Microwires. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2021; 60:2414-2423. [PMID: 33185017 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202012417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The ability to exhibit life-like oscillatory motion fueled by light represents a new capability for stimuli-responsive materials. Although this capability has been demonstrated in soft materials like polymers, it has never been observed in molecular crystals, which are not generally regarded as dynamic objects. In this work, it is shown that molecular crystalline microwires composed of (Z)-2-(3-(anthracen-9-yl)allylidene)malononitrile ((Z)-DVAM) can be continuously actuated when exposed to a combination of ultraviolet and visible light. The photo-induced motion mimics the oscillatory behavior of biological flagella and enables propagation of microwires across a surface and through liquids, with translational speeds up to 7 μm s-1 . This is the first example of molecular crystals that show complex oscillatory behavior under continuous irradiation. A model that relates the rotation of the transition dipole moment between reversible E→Z photoisomerization to the microscopic torque can qualitatively reproduce how the rotational frequency depends on light intensity and polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Tong
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, 501 Big Springs Road, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA.,Current Address: Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Joint International Research Laboratory of Precision Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, Frontiers Science Center for Materiobiology and Dynamic Chemistry, Institute of Fine Chemicals, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Daichi Kitagawa
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka City University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan
| | - Ibraheem Bushnak
- College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, and, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, (Nanomedicine), Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, 11426, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Rabih O Al-Kaysi
- College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, and, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, (Nanomedicine), Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, 11426, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Christopher J Bardeen
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Riverside, 501 Big Springs Road, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
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