As a senior researcher with a PhD in materials science specializing in ferroelectric materials, particularly electroactive polymers (EAPs), Dr. Thetpraphi’s role in the Live-Mirror project is crucial for the selection and optimization of materials to meet the project’s application requirements. The innovative Live-Mirror technology integrates lightweight glass sheets with dynamic optoelectronic systems supported by force actuators and sensors, all thanks to additive manufacturing. As far as EAPs are concerned, these materials are capable of converting electrical energy into mechanical energy, or vice versa, and above all of being 3D-printed. They have provided a diverse set of applications, such as wireless systems, smart homes, biomedical sensors, smart sports, artificial muscles, deformable mirrors in telescopes, and so on. By optimizing the electromechanical properties of these materials and using an organic doped polymer and multilayer structure, Dr. Thetpraphi contributes significantly to the development of high-quality adaptive optical mirror systems for ground- and space-based telescopes.

After completing a PhD in numerical modeling of lubricated contacts in the National Institute of Applied Science (Lyon), Vincent pursued a postdoctoral research position focused on laser welding modeling in the Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies Commission. He is currently the CTO at SIMTEC, where he oversees innovative projects in the field of engineering and research simulations. In his current role, he plays a key part in the “EIC Live-Mirror Consortium” project as an external collaborator, focusing on the modeling of piezoelectric actuators and their impact on mirror deformations. This project merges precision engineering with advanced simulations, showcasing his expertise in both theoretical and applied modeling techniques.