On the road to the future
The world of kinematic products, which stand for precise movement and flexibility, is undergoing a remarkable revolution thanks to innovative materials. These new materials go far beyond traditional metals and plastics to meet the demands of modern technology and creative design. Here we take a look at some of these pioneering materials and how they are redefining the world of kinematics.
Shape memory alloys (SMAs):
Shape memory alloys such as nickel-titanium (NiTi) have a unique ability to change shape after deformation and return to their original shape when heated.
In kinematic products, SMAs are used for self-healing structures, adaptive surfaces and flexible joints.
These materials offer not only precision, but also an innovative solution for applications that require controlled deformation.
Graphene:
As a single layer material made of carbon atoms, graphene has exceptional mechanical, electrical and thermal properties.
In the field of kinematics, graphene is used for lightweight but extremely strong components.
It improves the rigidity of structures and at the same time enables increased flexibility.
This application can be found in the development of high-performance robot structures and precise movement mechanisms.
Piezoelectric materials:
Piezoelectric materials, which generate electrical charge under mechanical load, have many innovative applications in kinematics.
In adaptive structures, such as intelligent textiles or flexible sensors, they enable precise control of movements.
In piezoelectric actuators, they are used for fine motion control, for example in precise medical instruments or optical systems.
Metamaterials:
Metamaterials are artificially produced structures with exceptional properties that do not occur in natural materials.
In kinematics, they are used for the development of structures with a negative refractive index and vibration-damping components.
These materials enable the construction of lightweight yet stable kinematic products with improved performance characteristics.
Biocompatible polymers:
Biocompatible polymers are revolutionizing the use of kinematic products in the medical field.
These materials are not only light and flexible, but also compatible with the human body.
Biocompatible polymers are used in robotic exoskeletons, minimally invasive medical devices and in rehabilitation technology.
Liquid metal:
Liquid metal, often based on gallium, is characterized by the ability to change its shape while remaining electrically conductive.
In kinematics, liquid metal structures are used for flexible and self-healing joints.
These materials offer innovative solutions for elastic and reconfigurable joints in robots and other kinematic systems.
Hybrid materials:
Hybrid materials combine different types of materials to achieve synergistic properties.
In the kinematic context, hybrid structures are used for optimal strength, flexibility and durability.
For example, composite materials made of fiber composites and metal alloys could combine the best properties of both material types.
Ferrofluids:
Ferrofluids consist of nanoparticles in a carrier fluid and react to magnetic fields.
In kinematics, they are used for precise magnetically controlled movements.
These materials are used in advanced actuators and systems that require high precision.
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs):
Carbon nanotubes are extremely light yet strong structures.
In kinematic products, they can be used for ultra-light yet strong joints and connections.
Their exceptional mechanical properties make them ideal for applications where weight reduction and strength are critical.
Quantum dots:
Quantum dots are nanoparticles that have unique optical and electronic properties due to their size and structure.
They are used in kinematics for precise sensors and actuators.