Patterning-Based Self-Assembly of Specific and Functional Structures

In this study, we developed a system for selective self-assembly of millimeter-scale components differentiated by adhesive patterns. This was achieved by designing concentric circular patterns having different radii but the same total length of peripheries. Small polymer sheets having solder adhesive patterns in these designs were simply attached to the millimeter-scale components to be assembled in a stirring container. This strategy was effective in avoiding an overlap between different patterns and enforcing the selective bonds between identical patterns among three types of components. Finally, the selective assembly of a functional structure (i.e., poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) gel actuator) was demonstrated.