Precision Programming Biomimetic Actuator Based on Photolithography Dopamine Coating

Micro biomimetic actuators hold significant potential for applications across various fields. However, conventional fabrication methods often involve complex processes that limit their development. Here, we propose a simple and precise manufacturing approach inspired by animal joints, utilizing photolithography to pattern polydopamine coatings on thermally responsive shapememory polymers. This technique enables the creation of shape-memory materials with localized sensitivity to nearinfrared (NIR) light. Owing to its strong photothermal conversion capability under NIR irradiation, the patterned polydopamine coating allows controllable deformation of the actuator when exposed to light. We developed an accurate simulation model to predict the deformation behavior and experimentally validated its programmability. This strategy demonstrates considerable potential in electronics, robotics, and biomedical applications, while also providing a novel pathway for fabricating programmable shape-memory polymers.