Mechanical & Fluid Systems

Chemically Driven Wheels “Morph” Into Gears

A catalytic reaction causes a two-dimensional, chemically coated sheet to spontaneously morph into a three-dimensional gear.

Nanosized Foldable Robots

The machines fold themselves within 100 milliseconds and can flatten and refold thousands of times.

Air-Powered Robot Needs No Electronics

The walking quadruped is controlled and powered by pressurized air.

A Better Way to Measure Acceleration

Researchers have developed a millimeter-thick accelerometer.

Nanowire Could Provide a Stable Superconducting Transistor

The technology could boost quantum computers and other superconducting electronics.

High Bus Voltage Stepper Motor Systems

New high bus voltage stepper motor systems avoid the complexity and expense of servo motors.

Mode I Fracture Testing Apparatus

The device uses load frames to test bonded structures in aerospace, automotive, defense, and energy storage applications.

Square Structural Joint with Robotic Assembly Tool

Applications include portable aerospace structures and terrestrial structures such as cleanrooms and field hospitals.

Transport of Mechanical Energy, Even Through Damaged Pathways

This work could lead to much more robust devices that continue to operate in spite of damage.

New Process Breaks Down Polystyrene

Due to the chemical stability and durability of industrial polymers, plastic waste does not easily degrade in landfills and is often burned, which produces carbon dioxide and other hazardous gases. In order...

Novel Flexible Terahertz Camera Can Inspect Objects with Diverse Shapes

A flexible, free-standing THz sensor array images blind ends of irregularly shaped objects.

Accelerometer and Gyroscope Designs Based on Carbon Nanotube Tape

NASA Marshall Space Flight Center developed designs for two micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) motion and position sensors: a single-axis accelerometer and a gyroscope....

Pollen-Based Paper Bends and Curls in Response to Humidity

The paper-like material could be useful in soft robots, sensors, artificial muscles, and electric generators.

Hinge Design Helps Quadrotors Climb

The new hinge is the key to get loadbearing, large quadrotors to climb a few dozen feet in seconds.

Ultra-Sensitive Flow Microsensors

The sensors could be used in medical applications such as neuroscience and metabolism processes.

Cord Tension Measurement Device

Potential applications include parachutes, hot air balloons, weather balloons, blimps, sails, and parasails.

Rapid 3D Printing of Biomedical Parts

The structures’ small size and porosity make them well-suited for building components such as replacement joints.

Lightweight Crane Technology for the Moon

A prototype version could be demonstrated on a large cargo lunar lander.

Materials Capable of Self-Propulsion

Shape and environment can cause materials to move without motors or hands.

High-Torque Light-Powered Actuator

These actuators can compete with electrical and pneumatic systems.

Laser-Light-Based Accelerometer

The tiny device accurately measures acceleration in smaller navigation systems and other devices.

Building Big Data from Little Data

Edge computing, focused applications, and open connectivity let designers start with little data on their digital transformation journey.

Advanced Supercritical Water Oxidation Reactor

This technology has potential across many industries including water reclamation and treatment, and waste destruction in liquid waste streams.

Copolymer Removes Toxins from Water

Researchers have demonstrated that they can attract, capture, and destroy perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of federally regulated substances nicknamed “the forever chemicals”...

Autonomous Sensor Technology for Real-Time Feedback About Refrigeration and Heating

The sensor monitors the oil circulation ratio in real time for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.

Implantable Sensor Could Measure Bodily Functions — And Then Safely Biodegrade

Sensors need to be flexible, stretchable, biodegradable, safe, and stable for use in the body.

Prototype Fuel Gauge for Orbit

The technology could continuously monitor fluid flow in pipes on the International Space Station and prevent satellites from colliding.

Stretchable Micro-Supercapacitors Self-Power Wearable Devices

A stretchable system can harvest energy from human breathing and motion.

Kodiak 3D LiDAR

This system provides low-cost, reliable 3D LiDAR images in nearly any lighting condition.