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11mo ago

Researchers Create Shape-Shifting Antenna Using 3D-Printed Memory Alloys

The innovative design dynamically adapts to temperature changes, enabling wide-ranging applications in communication and space exploration.

By leveraging cutting-edge additive manufacturing techniques and shape memory alloys, APL researchers have created an antenna that can change its shape based on its temperature. Image Credit: Adobe Stock
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Overview

  • Scientists at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory developed an antenna that changes shape based on temperature using shape memory alloys like nitinol.
  • The technology allows the antenna to operate across multiple radio-frequency bands, potentially replacing multiple fixed-shape antennas.
  • The antenna transitions between a flat spiral disk and a cone spiral, offering adaptability for short- and long-range communications.
  • Challenges included optimizing the 3D printing process for nitinol and designing a novel power line to heat the antenna without degrading its RF properties.
  • The team has filed patents for the antenna and related innovations, with potential applications in military, telecommunications, and space missions.