Programmable Surface with Actuator Tiles for Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional supporting devices, such as cup holders and tables, occupy fixed space regardless of their usage, leading to wasted space when not in use, as they maintain a constant size and shape even when empty or partially occupied.
Innovation Solution
A programmable surface system comprising tiles and actuators that can deform and maintain custom shapes based on user-defined configurations, using a locking insulating elastomer with a fluid-impermeable compartment and conducting elastomers to lock and unlock shapes with electric input, allowing for flexible and space-efficient use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If conventional supporting devices maintain a constant size and shape, then structural stability is ensured, but space efficiency deteriorates when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting device incorporates actuators that enable the surface to dynamically change its shape between a first configuration (when supporting an object) and a second configuration (when not in use). This dynamic transformation allows the device to adapt its volume and shape based on operational needs, resolving the contradiction between maintaining structural stability and improving space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes its physical parameters (shape, volume, configuration) in response to detected object presence. When an object is detected, the surface transforms to a supportive configuration; when no object is present, it transforms to a compact configuration. This parameter transformation enables the device to optimize both structural stability during use and space efficiency when idle.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated supporting devices are provided for different objects, then object-specific support is improved, but device complexity and space consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting device is designed with universal adaptability to support various types of objects (cups, bottles, containers of different sizes and shapes) through a single reconfigurable surface. The actuators enable the surface to morph into different configurations, allowing one device to perform the functions of multiple dedicated supporting devices, thereby reducing overall device complexity and space consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The reconfigurable surface with actuators allows the device to dynamically adapt its shape and structure to match the specific characteristics of different objects. This dynamic transformation capability enables a single device to replace multiple static supporting devices, improving versatility while reducing the total number of devices needed.
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
The programmable surface system optimizes space usage by adapting to different shapes and sizes of objects, conserving space when not in use and providing customizable support without the need for multiple dedicated devices.
Implementation Method 1
the fluid-impermeable compartment including a dielectric fluid and a particulate material
Implementation Method 2
a first conducting portion connected to an outer surface of the locking portion, the conducting portion comprising a conducting elastomer
Data Source
AI summary
The devices and systems described herein generally relate to programmable surfaces. A set of tiles in conjunction with actuators, allow for the surface to be constantly changeable from a first shape to an unlimited variety of second shapes. Once a desired second shape is achieved, the shape can be held by actuating the actuators. The system can include detection and maintenance of the shapes of the programmable surface by controlling which of the actuators are released and when they are released.