Void-Based Metamaterials

A system for producing a metamaterial, the system comprising:

• an automated machine configured to produce a matrix comprising a plurality of unit-cells, wherein each of the plurality of unit-cells comprises at least one void;
• and
• an automated dispenser configured to dispense content of interest into a respective void of at least a portion of the plurality of unit-cells, wherein said automated dispenser is configured to dispense the content of interest into the respective void after said automated machine creates at least a portion of the respective void, and before said automated machine closes the respective void.

A system for producing metamaterials, comprising a 3D printer having a 3D printing head controllably movable by a shifting mechanism for constructing a matrix comprising a plurality of unit-cells, each of which comprising at least one void;

• the system being characterized by an automated dispenser mounted on said shifting mechanism, for controllably discharging predetermined doses of at least one type of a content of interest into voids under construction during build-up of the matrix by the printing head.

A method for manufacturing a metamaterial, comprising (i) printing a matrix layer by a 3D printer and providing indentations constituting voids under construction on a surface thereof;

• (ii) moving an automated dispenser next to the indentations and discharging at least one type of a content of interest into selected indentations;
• (iii) continuing the printing of the matrix until the indentations become closed voids;
• (iv) repeating steps (i) to (iii) until the matrix reaches an intended predetermined design.

A system for producing the metamaterials comprising a casting apparatus, a mold configured to produce one or more layers of matrix with indentations constituting voids under construction on at least one surface thereof, an automatic dispenser movable next to the indentations for discharging into the indentations at least one type of a content of interest.

A method for operating an armor having passive and active protection states, the method comprising:

• (i) having the armor in passive protection state;
• (ii) obtaining an indication associated with a severity level of threats;
• (iii) in response to an indication of the severity level of threats being above a threshold, spinning microstructures inside the armor, whereby operating the armor in the active protection state.