Sequential Self-Folding Structures by 3D Printed Digital Shape Memory Polymers.

ABSTRACT: Folding is ubiquitous in nature with examples ranging from the formation of cellular components to winged insects. It finds technological applications including packaging of solar cells and space structures, deployable biomedical devices, and self-assembling robots and airbags. Here we demonstrate sequential self-folding structures realized by thermal activation of spatially-variable patterns that are 3D printed with digital shape memory polymers, which are digital materials with different shape memory behaviors. The time-dependent behavior of each polymer allows the temporal sequencing of activation when the structure is subjected to a uniform temperature. This is demonstrated via a series of 3D printed structures that respond rapidly to a thermal stimulus, and self-fold to specified shap

SUBMITTER: Mao Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4562068 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature