Surface element is formed by controlled coupling of a matrix of base elements each having embedded electromagnets

摘要

The system has a matrix of surface elements (2) that can be produced of a range of materials, e.g. glass , wood, metal. The elements are connected by flexible links (3) and each element has embedded electromagnets (4,5) on the sides. These are controlled (6) to vary the stiffness of the connection between adjacent elements. Electric motors may be used as an alternative to the electromagnets.