Reprogrammable 3D Shapes from 1D Metamaterial

Abstract

Three billion years of evolution have produced a vast variety of protein molecules, whose functions are directly dependent on their ability to assume and maintain specific shapes. Proteins are defined by the sequence and chemical characteristics of their amino acids, which dictate their 3D shape and function, ranging from enzymatic activity to immune responses. Here, we explore a synthetic form of linear structure that can be bent in a programmable way into various specific 3D shapes inspired by the way functional proteins are defined using genetic codes. This synthetic structure is based on non-circular multistable corrugated tubes, which can be fabricated at various length scales and cross-sectional shapes, thus enabling the modification of their properties. Additionally, the cross-section shape can be rewritten multiple times, allowing for the repair of structural damage and the rewriting of the properties of the structure's multi-stability. A numerical model is used to describe the bending energy landscape of different cross-sections. The proposed reprogrammable 3D shapes of a rewritable 1D metamaterial are promising candidates for futuristic robotic systems, complex deployable structures, catheter devices, and energy absorption and harvesting.