Nanorobots Fold Themselves

Army-funded researchers created nanosized robots that could enable locomotion, novel metamaterial design and high-fidelity sensors. Cornell University researchers created micron-sized shape memory actuators that fold themselves into 3D configurations and allow atomically thin 2D materials with just a quick jolt of voltage. Once the material is bent, it holds its shape, even after the voltage is removed. To demonstrate the technology, the team created what is potentially the world’s smallest self-folding origami bird.