Related is this mesmerizing video by designer Dana Zelig that employs 3D printed Shrinky Wrap and light to produce a demo of the "sinuous flatland ballet" that could be possible with programmable matter:
Can't help thinking that there is some golden ratio of piezo-electric crystals and carbon epoxy composites that would make a material that is not just programmable but also able to self-generate its own power supply ;)
http://www.fastcodesign.com/3048940/the-magical-beauty-of-pr...
Can't help thinking that there is some golden ratio of piezo-electric crystals and carbon epoxy composites that would make a material that is not just programmable but also able to self-generate its own power supply ;)