Multistable Metastructure for Zero-Energy Sensing and Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical computation systems are limited by their ability to only detect singular data outputs and require external memory units, separating computation from memory, and cannot effectively convert deformation from mechanical inputs varying in space and time into a single morphological output.
Innovation Solution
Multistable metastructures composed of locally bistable units, such as dome-shaped units coated with responsive materials, which invert passively when exceeding a threshold, allowing for a physical connection between sensing and memory, enabling in-memory computations similar to neuromorphic materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional mechanical logic gates are used, then computation can be performed, but external memory units are required and computation is separated from memory
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines computation and memory functions into a single integrated mechanical system. The deformable substrate with bistable units performs both logical computation through deformation patterns and stores information in the same physical structure, eliminating the need for separate memory units and achieving unified computation-memory functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The deformable substrate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the computational element through its ability to deform into different configurations, serves as memory by maintaining stable deformed states, and provides the structural framework for the entire system. This multi-functionality resolves the separation between computation and memory units.
2Ease of operation
If singular data output is used, then simple detection is achieved, but no additional useful information is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the output information by using multiple bistable units that can be independently deformed. Each unit's state contributes to the overall output pattern, allowing the system to encode multiple pieces of information simultaneously in the spatial distribution of deformed units rather than providing a single singular output.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from singular (1D) output to spatial pattern (2D/3D) output by utilizing the positional arrangement of multiple bistable units. The information is encoded in the spatial configuration and pattern of deformed units across the substrate, adding dimensional information to the output.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical inputs varying in space and time are applied, then dynamic sensing is achieved, but conversion to single morphological output is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bistable units are pre-configured in specific spatial arrangements on the deformable substrate. When mechanical inputs are applied, these pre-positioned units respond by deforming into stable states that directly encode the spatiotemporal pattern of inputs into the final morphological configuration, simplifying the conversion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically converts spatiotemporal mechanical inputs into morphological output patterns through the inherent bistable properties of the units. The deformation patterns self-organize into stable configurations that represent the input history, eliminating the need for external bookkeeping devices or complex encoding mechanisms.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the storage of information and performance of logic operations using shape changes, allowing for decision-making capabilities with zero power consumption and integrated sensing and computation, exceeding the capabilities of conventional mechanical logic gates.
Implementation Method 1
a responsive material layer, wherein the responsive material layer is disposed on the plurality of raised structures and is configured to invert the plurality of raised structures in the presence of an external stimuli
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor, comprising a deformable substrate, comprising a structural metamaterial in a first configuration; a plurality of raised structures disposed throughout the substrate, wherein the plurality of raised structures are invertible; a responsive material layer, wherein the responsive material layer is disposed on the plurality of raised structures and is configured to invert the plurality of raised structures in the presence of an external stimuli; and a plurality of second configurations of the deformable substrate that correspond to a plurality of inverted raised structures.