Method for Generating Supramolecular Rotary Devices and Supramolecular Rotary Switch

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This invention describes a method to create networks of tiny, mechanical devices called supramolecular rotary switches at the nanoscale, using molecules that naturally organize themselves into a regular, porous pattern on a surface. These molecular networks contain functional centers where special molecules can be placed and then act as rotors that can be switched between distinct orientations either by heat or by applying an electrical stimulation, such as with a scanning probe. The approach allows for the individual addressing and switching of each rotary device within the network, with potential for large-scale, cost-effective assembly.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Next-generation data storage systems at the molecular or nanoscale, enabling high-density memory devices.
• Molecular electronic circuits and logic gates, where the switches control signal flow at the nanoscale.
• Smart, tunable surfaces for controlling light reflectivity, absorption, or transport properties (e.g., smart windows or coatings).
• Nanomechanical devices or sensors leveraging the controlled rotation and multi-stable behavior of individual molecular components.
• Fabrication of reconfigurable or adaptive electronic and optoelectronic components.
• Platforms for research in nanotechnology, molecular mechanics, and quantum computing.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Bottom-up, self-assembly method enables large-scale, uniform production at low cost.
• Individual addressing and switching of devices allow for highly flexible and reconfigurable networks.
• Multi-stable molecular switches provide more than binary states, increasing data density and functionality.
• Supramolecular design reduces defects and improves consistency compared to top-down nanofabrication methods.
• Molecules can be triggered by temperature or electrical stimuli, offering versatile control mechanisms.
• Potential for new types of smart surfaces and nanoscale devices with tailored physical, electronic, or optical properties.

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Patent Abstract

A method for generating a porous network of supramolecular devices is disclosed, comprising the steps of : a) providing self-organizing molecules comprising connecting bonds and side-groups; b) generating a two-dimensional layer of said molecules on an unstructured surface, wherein self-organizing leads to an at least partially regular network of cells, each cell comprising a number of said self-organizing molecules and each cell offering a functional center; and c) further depositing a predefined amount of said self-organizing molecules and/or of other functional molecules on said two-dimensional layer, wherein these further deposited molecules accommodating in said functional centers of said cells, one or more of said further deposited molecules per cell, wherein said further deposited molecule comprises a multi-stable architecture together with the cell hosting the further deposited molecule. This method provides a rotary switch that offers on a large scale a bottom-up self assembly of the self-organizing molecules that result in a nanoporous network comprising single supramolecular switches that can be addressed individually and switched by changing its orientation. Such rotary switch is at low cost a very flexible and powerful nanodevice that can be largely used in molecurlar electronic applications, such as for the purpose of storing information.