switchien
Switchien is a term used in speculative discussions of programmable matter to denote a class of materials capable of reversible, discrete state switching in response to external stimuli. In theoretical treatments, switchien units are nanoscale or molecular modules that can occupy two or more metastable configurations. The collective state of an ensemble of such units can encode information, perform logic, or drive mechanical actuation.
The switching is driven by energy inputs such as electric fields, light, magnetic fields, or heat, and
As of now, switchien remains a speculative concept without agreed experimental realization. Related research includes phase-change
Potential applications discussed in theory include ultra-dense non-volatile memory, neuromorphic computing, reconfigurable sensors, and adaptive mechanical