Patent ID: 6836736
Filing Date: 2004-12-28
Classification: B33Y,G06F

Abstract:
A method for controlling shape of a digital clay device, the method comprising the steps of:determining a desired position of a skeleton structure portion residing in the digital clay device; determining a volumetric change of a fluid residing in a bladder, the determined volumetric change corresponding to the determined desired position of the skeleton structure portion; opening a micro-electro mechanical systems (MEMS) valve so that the fluid flows through the MEMS valve thereby causing the determined volumetric change of the fluid residing in the bladder; and adjusting a position of the skeleton structure portion corresponding to the desired position of the skeleton structure portion, the position adjustment caused by a force generated by the bladder on the skeleton structure portion when the volume of the bladder changes in response to the determined volumetric change of the fluid residing in the bladder.