Dynamic Robotic Fibers: Liquid Crystal Elastomers for Programmable and Reversible Shape-Changing Behaviors

Abstract

This work aims to provide early-stage insights into an electro-thermally actuated liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) fiber for novel shape-changing behaviors that are both programmable and reversible. We build a control system and experimentally investigate the electro-thermal characteristics and actuation, identifying four categories of fiber behavior: Oscillating Tip, Oscillating Fiber, Tilting and Bending. These key parameters illustrate the broad application potential of the proposed approach within a functional, communication and expressive context. Our contributions are threefold a.) the control of an electro-thermal responsive LCE fiber, b.) directions for soft robotic device integration c.) early-stage insights into fiber shape-changing behaviors towards application.