Abstract

Ordinary materials and simple production techniques can be used to create hand-held structures capable of large, securable and recoverable changes in shape. These principles enable an ordinary structure to become multi-functional, where the shape-change admits other properties. For example, portable electronic devices can be made to unfurl or to compact more efficiently, for easier storage; morphing aircraft can adjust their shape, for an optimal aerodynamic performance. This talk will demonstrate the performance of these structures, and discuss the importance of careful experimentation coupled to sound analysis; this allows refinement of production, a clarification of spurious behaviour and the adoption of new research directions. These structures have potential widespread use in many applications and products, and the speaker will conclude by describing the process of commercial exploitation.