Stanford
Reconfigurable & Active Structures Lab

Research Areas

Re-Programmable Metastructures

The arrangement of active structural elements into more complex geometries provides a novel level of control for dynamically re-programming mechanical performance during operation. We have realized structures with precise control of shape and stiffness and address challenges associated with fabrication, efficient modelling, and actuation.

Metamaterial adaptation through physical learning

We leverage mechanics for computing in adaptive structures.

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Gecko-inspired stiffness control

Dry adhesion enables reversible lamination for control of structural stiffness post-fabrication.

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Shape adaptive multi-stable composite grids

We exploit anisotropy in fiber composites to create metastructures with hundreds of stable geometric configurations.

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Mechanically Reconfigurable Antennas 

We use shape adaptation of conductive surfaces as a means of re-programming an antenna's response throughout its lifetime. This approach to performance adaptation in electromagnetic systems promises to yield more lightweight and energy efficient multi-functional structures for use as satellite payloads and in terrestrial communications. 

Shape morphing metamaterial antennas

We use stretchable metamaterial patterning of antennas to control the coupling between shape change and antenna reconfiguration.

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Multi-stable radiation pattern reconfigurable antennas

Multi-stability in structures can be linked to low-energy electromagnetic reconfiguration.

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Multi-Functional Composite Materials

Thin composite laminates offer an opportunity to embed functional elements while leading to lightweight, integrated systems. In addition, the anisotropy of fiber reinforced composites can also be leveraged for enhanced functionality. We investigate composites with embedded deployment, electromagnetic, and actuation functionalities.

Multi-functional battery enclosures

We develop hybrid thermoset and thermoplastic composites for high stiffness and high energy absorption during thermal runaway in batteries.

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Thin-ply composites for cryogenic environments

Thin-ply fiber reinforced polymer composites are investigated for their potential to mitigate cracking under cryogenic temperatures.

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Dual-matrix composites

We develop elastomeric fiber composites to realize localized hinges in deployable composite origami structures.

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