Abstract: In one embodiment, a shape-reconfigurable structure includes a rigid base having first and second ends, a rigid first beam having a lateral end and a central end, the lateral end being connected to the first end of the base, and a rigid second beam having a lateral end and a central end, the lateral end of the second beam being connected to the second end of the base and the central end of the second beam being connected to the central end of the first beam, wherein the structure can be placed in an expanded orientation in which the first and second beams extend outward away from the base and a contracted orientation in which the first and second beams extend inward toward the base.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a shape-reconfigurable structure includes a rigid base having first and second ends, a rigid first beam having a lateral end and a central end, the lateral end being connected to the first end of the base, and a rigid second beam having a lateral end and a central end, the lateral end of the second beam being connected to the second end of the base and the central end of the second beam being connected to the central end of the first beam, wherein the structure can be placed in an expanded orientation in which the first and second beams extend outward away from the base and a contracted orientation in which the first and second beams extend inward toward the base.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide programmable materials capable of real-time, significant adjustment in their mechanical response. When combined with autonomous sensing and control strategies, these materials can be used in a new series of structural components with enhanced static and dynamic efficiency. An embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus comprising an array of one or more unit cells, formed from a material, each cell defining a shape; and links coupled to the unit cells, at least a subset of the links enabling changing of an elasticity of at least a subset of the unit cells or at least a sub- array of the unit cells as a function of a state of the at least a subset of the links, the state including ON and OFF states.