Bioinspired rotary flight of light-driven composite films

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Robotics
• Aerospace Engineering

Background:

• Light-driven actuators show promise for various applications but face challenges in flying devices due to slow response and low force output.
• Existing photoactuators struggle with the demands of aerial locomotion, limiting their practical use in miniature flying systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and demonstrate a novel rotary flying photoactuator capable of ultrafast rotation and controlled flight.
• To overcome the limitations of slow response and low frequency in light-driven actuators for aerial applications.

Main Methods:

• Inspired by vine maple seeds, a helicopter-like photoactuator was engineered using photothermal graphene and hygroscopic agar/silk fibroin components.
• The device operates via synergistic interactions, photothermal conversion, and aerodynamic principles for propulsion and flight.

Main Results:

• The photoactuator demonstrated ultrafast rotation (~7200 rpm) and rapid response (~650 ms) under near-infrared (NIR) light (0.6 W/cm²).
• Controlled flight and steering behaviors were achieved, showcasing the device's maneuverability.
• The design utilizes a unique mechanism involving photothermal effects, hygroscopic properties, and aerodynamic forces.

Conclusions:

• The developed soft helicopter-like photoactuator represents a significant advancement in light-driven flying devices.
• This technology holds promise for applications in soft robotics, miniature aerial devices, and advanced actuation systems.