3D Printed Reversible Shape Changing Components with Stimuli Responsive Materials

• DOI: 10.1038/srep24761
• Publication Date: 2016-04-25T09:16:49Z
• Authors: Yiqi Mao; Zhen Ding; Chao Yuan; Shigang Ai; Michael Isakov; Jiangtao Wu; Tiejun Wang; Martin L. Dunn; H. Jerry Qi
• Keywords: Shape-memory polymer; Shape change; Smart material; Component (thermodynamics); Soft Robotics; 3d printed

Abstract The creation of reversibly-actuating components that alter their shapes in a controllable manner response to environmental stimuli is grand challenge active materials, structures, and robotics. Here we demonstrate new reversible shape-changing component design concept enabled by 3D printing two responsive polymers—shape memory polymers hydrogels—in prescribed architectures. This approach uses the swelling hydrogel as driving force for shape change, temperature-dependent modulus polymer regulate time such change. Controlling temperature aqueous environment allows switching between stable configurations – structures are relatively stiff can carry load each without any mechanical loading unloading. Specific changing scenarios, e.g., based on bending, or twisting directions, via controlled interplay materials printed physical phenomena complex nonintuitive, so help understand geometric, material, parameters develop nonlinear finite element models. Finally, create several 2D role key illustrate broad application potential proposed approach.