Directed Reconfigurable Nanomachines

我们提出了一个方案，革命性的合成纳米器件，纳米机器，并最终，功能材料通过分子和纳米级积木的位置组装。计算机引导的致动器将被用来驱动（以亚纳米到亚埃的精度）纳米系统的元素沿着沿着预定义的和完全确定的轨迹，从而实现结构无法通过模仿自然组装策略单独访问。构件之间的连接和结合也将通过直接计算机控制来启动、调节和--在某些情况下--终止。我们的建议依赖于并行开发新的表面结合，可重构的纳米级构建模块（分子，功能化簇，纳米粒子）和先进的自动组装技术。我们专注于产生两个主要的和极具挑战性的功能定位组装纳米机器：可切换的能量转换和构象驱动的运动。我们的原型系统包括以下单元：能量采集器、可切换/可选通链路以及光学或机械输出。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。

We 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.