Abstract: A micromechanical device capable of providing out-of-plane motion and force generation in response to an in-plane strain applied to the device is provided. Embodiments of the present invention comprise one or more islands that are operatively coupled with one or more hinges. The hinges are operative for inducing rotation of the islands when a lateral strain is applied to the structure. In some embodiments, the hinges are also electrically conductive such that they enable electrical communication between the one or more islands and devices external to the structure. Some embodiments of the present invention are particularly well suited for use in biological applications. Some devices in accordance with the present invention are fabricated using conventional planar processes, such as flex-circuit fabrication techniques.

Abstract: A micromechanical device capable of providing out-of-plane motion and force generation in response to an in-plane strain applied to the device is provided. Embodiments of the present invention comprise one or more islands that are operatively coupled with one or more hinges. The hinges are operative for inducing rotation of the islands when a lateral strain is applied to the structure. In some embodiments, the hinges are also electrically conductive such that they enable electrical communication between the one or more islands and devices external to the structure. Some embodiments of the present invention are particularly well suited for use in biological applications. Some devices in accordance with the present invention are fabricated using conventional planar processes, such as flex-circuit fabrication techniques.

Abstract: A flexible and stretchable patterned substrate is provided having a strain-permitting material comprising a patterned conformation that allows the flexible patterned substrate to experience local strain or local strain domains lower than the macroscopic strain of the flexible and stretchable patterned substrate.

Abstract: The invention described herein relates to structured porous materials, where the porous structure provides a tailored Poisson's ratio behavior. In particular, the structures of this invention are tailored to provide a range in Poisson's ratio ranging from a negative Poisson's ratio to a zero Poisson's. Two exemplar structures, each consisting of a pattern of elliptical or elliptical-like voids in an elastomeric sheet, are presented. The Poisson's ratios are imparted to the substrate via the mechanics of the deformation of the voids (stretching, opening, and closing) and the mechanics of the material (rotation, translation, bending, and stretching). The geometry of the voids and the remaining substrate are not limited to those presented in the models and experiments of the exemplars, but can vary over a wide range of sizes and shapes. The invention applies to both two-dimensional structured materials as well as three dimensionally structured materials.

Abstract: A flexible and stretchable patterned substrate is provided having a strain-permitting material comprising a patterned conformation that allows the flexible patterned substrate to experience local strain or local strain domains lower than the macroscopic strain of the flexible and stretchable patterned substrate.