Programming Photoresponse in Liquid Crystal Polymer Actuators with Laser Projector

Abstract A versatile, laser‐projector‐based method is demonstrated for programming alignment patterns into monolithic films of liquid crystal polymer networks. Complex images can be photopatterned into the polymer films with sub‐100 µm resolution, using relatively short exposure times. The method is further used to devise both photochemically and photothermally driven actuators that can undergo distinct light‐induced shape changes, dictated by the programmed alignment patterns. Deformation modes such as buckling and coiling, as well as miniature robotic devices such as a gripper and a light‐responsive octopod, are demonstrated. The reported technique enables easy and cost‐effective programmable actuation with relatively high throughput, thus significantly facilitating the design and realization of functional soft robotic actuators.