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

• DOI: 10.1038/srep13616
• Publication Date: 2015-09-08T11:51:58Z
• Authors: Yiqi Mao; Kai Yu; Michael S. Isakov; Jiangtao Wu; Martin L. Dunn; H. Jerry Qi
• Keywords: Folding (DSP implementation); Shape-memory polymer; 3d printed

Abstract Folding is ubiquitous in nature with examples ranging from the formation of cellular components to winged insects. It finds technological applications including packaging solar cells and space structures, deployable biomedical devices self-assembling robots airbags. Here we demonstrate sequential self-folding structures realized by thermal activation spatially-variable patterns that are 3D printed digital shape memory polymers, which materials different behaviors. The time-dependent behavior each polymer allows temporal sequencing when structure subjected a uniform temperature. This demonstrated via series respond rapidly stimulus self-fold specified shapes controlled changing sequences. Measurements spatial good agreement companion finite element simulations. A simplified reduced-order model also developed accurately describe physics. An important aspect management self-collisions, where portions folding contact then block further folding. metric predict collisions used together design lock themselves into stable desired configurations.