Directed Reconfigurable Nanomachines

定向可重构纳米机器我们提出了一种方案，通过分子和纳米级构建块的位置组装，彻底改变纳米器件、纳米机器以及最终功能材料的合成。计算机导向的驱动器将用于驱动（亚纳米到亚埃精度）纳米系统的元素沿着预先定义的和完全确定的轨迹，从而实现仅通过模仿自然装配策略无法获得的结构。构建模块之间的连接和键合也将由计算机直接控制来启动、调节和（在某些情况下）终止。我们的建议基于平行发展新的表面结合的、可重构的纳米级构建块（分子、功能化簇、纳米颗粒）和用于物质自动组装的先进技术。我们专注于位置组装纳米机器的两个主要和极具挑战性的功能：可切换的能量传导和构象驱动运动。我们的原型系统包括以下单元：一个能量收集器，一个可切换/门控链接，以及一个光学或机械输出。通过安排、配置和触发这些基本单元，我们的长期目标不亚于制造一台自主的、非生物的纳米机器。

Directed Reconfigurable NanomachinesWe propose a scheme to revolutionise the synthesis of nanodevices, nanomachines, and, ultimately, functional materials via the positional assembly of molecules and nanoscale building blocks. Computer-directed actuators will be used to drive (with sub-nanometre to sub-Angstrom precision) the elements of a nanosystem along pre-defined and entirely deterministic trajectories, thereby achieving structures not accessible by mimicking natural assembly strategies alone. Linkages and bonding between the building blocks will also be initiated, modulated, and - in some cases - terminated by direct computer control. Our proposal rests on the parallel development of novel surface-bound, reconfigurable nanoscale building blocks (molecules, functionalised clusters, nanoparticles) and advanced techniques for automated assembly of matter. We focus on the generation of two major and immensely challenging functionalities for positionally-assembled nanomachines: switchable energy transduction and conformationally-driven motion. Our archetypal system comprises the following units: an energy harvester, a switchable/gateable link, and an optical or mechanical output. By arranging, configuring, and triggering these fundamental units our long-term goal is no less than the fabrication of an autonomous, abiotic nanomachine.