Wenyan Cheng
Papers
2
Total Citations
45
H-Index
2
About
Wenyan Cheng is a leading researcher in the field of soft matter physics, with a primary focus on the dynamic behavior of liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) under light stimulation. Her work bridges materials science and mechanical engineering, exploring how these smart materials can harvest environmental energy for autonomous motion. Cheng’s most impactful contribution is her 2022 study on the self-oscillating floating of a spherical LCE balloon under steady illumination, which has garnered 43 citations. This work demonstrates a novel, continuous energy conversion mechanism without external control, offering a foundation for untethered soft robotics. She further advanced the field by investigating the beating motion of the same LCE balloon under periodic illumination, a simpler and more controllable excitation mode. This research highlights the potential for precise actuation in opto-mechanical systems, with applications ranging from micro-robots to energy harvesters. Cheng’s innovative use of light to drive sustained, programmable deformation in LCEs positions her as a key contributor to the next generation of adaptive, energy-autonomous soft devices.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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