Reconfigurable Lattice Structures

A wide range of engineering applications, ranging from civil to space structures, could benefit from the ability to construct material-efficient lattices that are easily reconfigurable. The challenge preventing modular robots from being applied at large scales is mainly the high level of complexity involved in duplicating a large number of highly integrated module units. We believe that reconfigurability can be more effectively achieved at larger scales by separating the structural design from the rest of the functional components. To this end, we investigate the use of modular chainlike structures of links and connector nodes that can be used to fold a wide range of two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) structural lattices. These structures are are strong, lightweight, and can be easily disassembled and reconfigured when desired.