Abstract: A product includes a three-dimensional structure having a plurality of sequentially-formed layers comprised of liquid crystal elastomers. The liquid crystal elastomers in a portion of a first of the layers are substantially aligned in a predefined first orientation and the liquid crystal elastomers in a portion of a second of the layers are substantially aligned in a predefined second orientation that is different than the first orientation. Each of the portions of the three-dimensional structure is characterized as exhibiting a shape change in response to a stimulus, wherein the shape change is reversible. The product includes a contiguous region of aligned liquid crystal elastomers in one of the portions having a maximum dimension of less than 60 microns.

Abstract: A method of forming a three-dimensional structure of liquid crystal (LC) elastomers includes contacting a resin layer of LC oligomers with a layer of photoalignment material, and exposing a portion of photoalignment material to light for aligning the portion of photoalignment material in a first orientation. The LC oligomers adjacent the illuminated portion of photoalignment material align to the first orientation of the illuminated portion. The portion of aligned LC oligomers of the resin layer are cured. Operations for forming additional layers include creating a relative movement of the resin layer away from the photoalignment material, contacting another resin layer with the photoalignment material, and exposing another portion of photoalignment material to light for aligning the photoalignment material in a different orientation.

Abstract: Methods of forming joinery between components formed from dissimilar materials, and assemblies utilizing the joinery. The components include interface surfaces having complementary peaks and valleys that interlock. A compliant interface is formed between the interface surfaces and the interface can be configured to provide functionality.

Abstract: A triboelectric device artificial air gap between the two materials to create the voltage potential. A method of using a flexible, compressive material as a spacer to create an artificial air gap that will allow the two materials to transfer electrons and provide a restorative force to separate the two materials when pressed together. The result is a device that does not require an air gap to generate a voltage potential, which in turn reduces the necessary footprint of the triboelectric device to a thin film and improves its mechanical robustness and lifetime.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a micromechanical displacement logic, signal propagation system that makes use of first and second bistable elements, and first and second mounting structures arranged adjacent opposing surfaces of the first bistable element. A plurality of pivotal lever arms are used to support the first bistable element in either one of two positions of equilibrium. A support structure and a compressible flexure element disposed between the support structure and the first mounting structure apply a preload force to the first mounting structure, which imparts the preload force to the first bistable element. The first bistable element is moveable from one of the two stable equilibrium positions to the other in response to an initial signal applied thereto.