Magnetically Programmable 3D-Morphic Electroluminescent Display Enabled by Soft Actuators

Abstract

Displays capable of reconfiguring their architecture into three-dimensional (3D) forms enable dynamic visual interfaces that extend beyond planar displays. Conventional morphic systems driven by pneumatic, thermal, or dielectric actuators are limited by slow response, bulky hardware, and restricted controllability. In this study, we present a magnetically programmable 3D-morphic display that seamlessly integrates soft magnetic actuators with a stretchable electroluminescent (EL) layer. Spatially addressable magnetic fields enable rapid, reversible, and localized out-of-plane deformation (< 200 ms), allowing real-time control over the display’s 3D topography. The elastomer-based EL component maintains uniform brightness, color stability, and electromechanical reliability over > 10,000 shape-morphing cycles, demonstrating robust mechanical–optical decoupling. Beyond simple shape modulation, the programmable surface deformation can be directly coupled with user interactions, enabling tactilely reconfigurable pixels and interactive patterns that respond to external magnetic commands. This approach provides a simple, scalable, and material-agnostic platform for constructing adaptive soft displays. This programmable and mechanically robust platform provides a straightforward and scalable approach for constructing adaptive morphing displays. By combining magnetic responsiveness with intrinsic mechanical compliance, the system establishes a foundation for next-generation soft robotic and wearable optoelectronic interfaces capable of dynamic 3D form adaptation.