Dynamic control of Gaussian morphing structures via embedded fluidic networks

Introduction

Transforming a flat plate into a doubly curved shell is not possible without distorting in-plane distances, as stated by Gauss in his seminal theorem. In natural morphogenesis, this strong geometrical constraint is overcome by differential growth in the tissues, which induces mechanical stresses and thus the buckling in a rich variety of shapes.

Background

Over the last decade, emerging approaches have embraced this paradigm to develop bioinspired synthetic responsive materials with in-plane distortions, and hence shape-morphing capabilities. However, despite rapid developments, current efforts primarily focus on programming the final equilibrium shape, overlooking the dynamical trajectory of the transformation and the mechanics of the morphed structure. As a result, exciting biomedical application perspectives in minimally invasive surgery, rehabilitation, and soft robotics remain so far elusive.

Objectives

Here, I aim to develop structures in which the shape, but also the mechanics and the dynamical deformation trajectory may be programmed in time. To do so, I propose to develop hybrid elastic plates embedding a network of fluid-filled cavities.

Methodology

1. Generalization of Design Principles
   First, I will generalize design principles to create unit cells that dispose of all six deformation modes (both in-plane and out-of-plane) when pressurized. Assembling such cells will enable univocal shape selection but also internal degrees of freedom to control the frustrated mechanics.

2. Coupling of Fluid Viscosity and Cavity Geometry
   Then, I will unravel the coupling between fluid viscosity and cavity geometry to spatially control the homogenized viscoelastic property of the material.

3. Programming Dynamical Deformation Trajectory
   The subsequent timescales will be finally used to program the dynamical deformation trajectory of the structure when submitted to a mechanical or fluidic load.

Conclusion

Taken together, I propose to develop new experimental standards and theoretical frameworks to pave the way for the first fully controllable shape-morphing materials, with applications for adaptive peristaltic endotracheal cuffs in view.