Layer by Layer, Patterned Valves Enable Programmable Soft Surfaces

Programmable surfaces, which can be instructed to alter their shape or texture, may one day serve as a platform for tangible interfaces and adaptive environments. But so far, these structures have been constrained in scale by challenging fabrication process, the numerous constituent actuators must built assembled individually. We look towards emerging trends mechanical engineering consider an alternate framework --- layer-driven design, enables production of dynamic, discretely-actuated surfaces at multiple scales. By centering construction around patterning stacking, forgoing individual assembly favor bulk processes such photo-etching laser cutting, we avoid need manufacturing steps that are repeated each many compose surface. As instance this model, build array electrostatic valves, use composite material (which refer Stoma-Board) drive four types pneumatic transducers. also show how technique readily industrialized, through integration with highly mature automated modern electronics.