Polymer Chemistry: Soft Mechanical Logic
Abstract
This project brings together expertise in polymer science and soft matter theory to develop a new paradigm for embedding computational power directly into materials through soft mechanical logic elements. The vision of Ô ubiquitous computingÕ is to distribute small computing devices into everyday environments including clothing, vehicles, infrastructure, and the environment. However, the lack of self-powered sensing and computing elements with small (sub-mm-scale) form factors represents a fundamental limitation to attaining true ubiquity. This proposal outlines work to enable a new vision of ubiquitous computing based on soft gel mechanical logic elements. It builds on the work of Hayward and Santangelo on mechanical metamaterials, which allows us to manipulate the mechanical properties of materials by controlling their structures, and shape-programmable responsive materials, which can exert controlled stresses in well-defined geometries in the presence of chemical or physical stimuli. The three major goals of the project are to: (1) Develop a platform for the fabrication and characterization of soft mechanical logic devices based on light-responsive hydrogels; (2) Establish a modeling toolbox that enables a systematic approach to analysis and rational design of soft mechanical logic elements; (3) Determine what limits the achievable complexity of mechanical logic devices through fundamental experimental and theoretical studies of signal propagation and error modes in multiplexed devices combining multiple elements. Throughout the three year project, theory and experiment will be tightly integrated to facilitate the design of mechanical logic devices with enhanced performance. The proposed work aims to dramatically extend our capabilities to design simple logic devices that can be used for ubiquitous sensing applications without the need for electrical power or micro-electronic devices, with potential implications of relevance to the Army including providing personal protection and health monitoring of soldiers, detecting structural health of infrastructure, vehicles, and weapons systems, and warning of chemical, biological, and radiological threats or environmental contamination.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jun 25, 2021
- Source ID
- W911NF2110068
Entities
People
- Ryan C Hayward
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Colorado Boulder