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Light-steerable locomotion using zero-elastic-energy modes.

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This study introduces a light-fueled liquid crystal elastomer torus capable of autonomous, self-sustained movement. Its locomotion direction is optically controlled, enabling agile navigation in diverse environments for soft robotics applications.

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Area of Science:

  • Soft matter physics
  • Robotics
  • Materials science

Background:

  • Achieving autonomous and steerable robotic motion from synthetic materials is crucial for advanced applications.
  • Dissipative mechanisms can drive materials out of equilibrium, enabling self-sustained motions.
  • Controlling agile movement in diverse environments remains a significant challenge in soft robotics.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a light-fueled soft material system for autonomous, self-sustained robotic motion.
  • To demonstrate dynamic steerability and agile movement in various environments.
  • To explore the potential of prestrained topological structures in out-of-equilibrium soft matter robotics.

Main Methods:

  • Fabrication of a liquid crystal elastomer torus with prestrained topological structure.
  • Utilizing constant light excitation to induce self-sustained out-of-equilibrium movement.
  • Exploiting dynamic friction and drag for optical control of locomotion direction.

Main Results:

  • The liquid crystal elastomer torus exhibits spontaneous rotation under constant light excitation due to zero-elastic-energy modes.
  • Locomotion direction is optically controlled in both dry and fluid environments.
  • Demonstrated lateral and vertical swimming in the Stokes regime, with steerability in three-dimensional space.

Conclusions:

  • Light-fueled soft liquid crystal elastomer tori offer a novel platform for autonomous robotic functions.
  • Prestrained topological structures are key to enabling steerable, out-of-equilibrium soft matter robotics.
  • The demonstrated optical control of locomotion opens possibilities for advanced soft robotic systems.