Thermorph Technique Creates Self-Folding 3D Structures

Apr-28-18 A team from Carnegie Mellon has utilized the normally frustrating phenomenon called warpage to create self-folding 3D materials.

Structures created using Fused Deposition Modeling, the cheapest form of 3D printing, contain residual stresses that can cause the material to warp as it cools. Turning this flaw to their advantage, the team from Carnegie Mellon University developed the Thermorph technique, in which an FDM printer creates flat sheets by laying down either warp-prone or warp-resistant thermoplastic. By controlling the placement of the different plastics, the final, flat structure can be triggered to shift form by placing it In hot water.

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[CO.UK]
[CS.CMU.EDU]

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