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Reprogrammable Phase-Transition Composites for Adaptive Dynamic Shape Morphing
Yiding Zhong1, Wei Tang1, Xinyu Guo1
1State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power and Mechatronic Systems, School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
Advanced Science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)
|January 21, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed reprogrammable phase-transition composites for adaptive robot deformation. This smart material enables controllable, dynamic shape changes, enhancing robotic environmental adaptability and functionality.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Robotics
- Smart Materials
Background:
- Adaptive dynamic deformation is crucial for robots to navigate complex environments.
- Current challenges include designing flexible smart materials with programmable deformation control.
- Nature utilizes phase transitions for biological tissue shaping and growth modulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel reprogrammable phase-transition composite for adaptive dynamic deformation in robotic systems.
- To achieve controllable, localized, and rapid deformation modulation.
- To enable robots with enhanced environmental adaptability through active deformation control.
Main Methods:
- Utilized reversible solid-liquid phase transition to control material stiffness.
- Employed reversible liquid-vapor phase transition for actuation-driven deformation.
- Regulated the order of phase transitions for programmable deformation control.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated reprogrammable and locally programmable deformation capabilities.
- Achieved rapid deformation and stable shape locking.
- Validated the effectiveness of the phase-transition composite through functional enhancements and applications.
Conclusions:
- The developed phase-transition composite offers a viable mechanism for adaptive dynamic deformation in robots.
- This technology enables robots with reversible and reprogrammable active deformation modulation.
- Opens new possibilities for advanced robotic systems with enhanced environmental interaction.
Keywords:
adaptive soft roboticsenergy storagephase‐transition compositesreprogrammable deformationshape lockingMore Related Videos
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