Scientists from the Liverrand National Laboratory, E. Lolnl (Llnl), have made a significant breakthrough in the development of “soft machines” for robotics and medicine. They have created a new type of soft material that can change its shape under the influence of light.
The researchers have developed a material called LICID CRYSTAL ELASTOMER (LCE), which integrates liquid crystals into the molecular structure of the material. By adding gold to LCE, they have created photosensitive ink and 3D printed structures that can bend, crawl, and move when exposed to a laser that causes localized heating.
In a demonstration, the scientists showcased various objects that respond to light, including cylinders capable of rolling, asymmetric sliders, and lattice structures that fluctuate under the influence of light (source).
The potential applications of this new material are vast. Soft robots created with this material could crawl, swim, or fly, allowing them to explore places that are inaccessible or dangerous for humans. In the field of medicine, the material could be used to develop implants that adapt to body movements or prosthetics.
The movement of the LCE material is possible through a process called “photothermic operation” (PhotoThermal ActUation). This process converts light energy into thermal energy, which then causes a mechanical reaction in the material. As a result, the printed structures can demonstrate dynamic and reversible movements in response to external stimuli.
The researchers have also utilized computer vision and photothermic operation to control the movement of soft machines. This opens up possibilities for the development of advanced control systems in the field of soft robotics.
While this breakthrough is promising, there are still challenges to overcome before the material can be practically applied. The researchers need to create structures that can predictably move, and they plan to work on developing models for complex movements. Additionally, they aim to improve the reliability and effectiveness of soft machines by exploring new materials and production technologies.
The team is also considering the material’s response to other stimuli such as humidity and energy absorption, as well as its behavior in space conditions. In line with this, they plan to start a new strategic initiative in the laboratory focused on autonomous materials, with the goal of creating self-learning