A toolkit for transformable materials

How to design materials with reprogrammable shape and function

Metamaterials — materials whose function is determined by structure, not composition — have been designed to bend light and sound, transform from soft to stiff, and even dampen seismic waves from earthquakes. But each of these functions requires a unique mechanical structure, making these materials great for specific tasks, but difficult to implement broadly.

But what if a material could contain within its structure, multiple functions and easily and autonomously switch between them?

more…

take that idea and apply it to this

Telescopic Camper

also for satellites, which already have fold out solar panels, but which could be designed for more flexibility

Tau.Neutrino said:

A toolkit for transformable materials

How to design materials with reprogrammable shape and function

Metamaterials — materials whose function is determined by structure, not composition — have been designed to bend light and sound, transform from soft to stiff, and even dampen seismic waves from earthquakes. But each of these functions requires a unique mechanical structure, making these materials great for specific tasks, but difficult to implement broadly.

But what if a material could contain within its structure, multiple functions and easily and autonomously switch between them?

more…

Brings back memories of the semi-regular polyhedra, honeycombs and tetraflexagons.

> Metamaterials — materials whose function is determined by structure, not composition

Not really a complete definition, metamaterials have a function that is determined by both structure and composition. A metamaterial made from carbon nanotubes will have different properties to the same structure made from titanium dioxide.