Morphing Structures for Civil Engineering, from Gridshells to Burrowing Robots

Shape-morphing metamaterials, mechanical systems and structures are designed to predictably achieve large shape changes when actuated. While pervasive in aerospace and mechanical engineering, these systems are seldom considered in civil engineering applications. This talk will concentrate on the morphing mechanics of some of the structures designed in our lab, highlighting some of their potential civil applications.

First, we will present a strategy to turn flat arrangements of structural elements into pop-up domes, investigating their deployment mechanics, load-bearing capacity and comparing them to existing structures such as gridshells. Then, we will illustrate how morphing structures can serve as the backbone of burrowing robots for geotechnical engineering applications, where they need to engage in complex interactions with surrounding soils.