Applications and Research of 4D Printing in Material Design

DOI: https://doi.org/10.62517/jiem.202603103

Author(s)

Weize Wu

Affiliation(s)

School Suzhou University of Science and Technology College, School of International Education Major, Civil Engineering, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China

Abstract

Characterized by smart material integration, 4D printing extends conventional additive manufacturing capabilities, wherein cured printed matter achieves programmable shape transitions, functionality or transformation via external stimuli. In comparison to standard 3D printing, the innovation merges volumetric construction with time-activated shape modulation, Endowing printed objects with programmable characteristics across the time dimension. Its technical implementation relies on smart materials, exemplified by shape-changing metal alloys, reversible deformation polymers, and piezoelectric composites, which achieve targeted deformation states or functional transformations through temperature induction, humidity, visible light radiation, along with magnetic stimulation. The key mechanism in 4D printing involves leveraging smart materials' attributes. Through deliberate manipulation of material dispersion and framework planning during the printing phase, the produced item manifests predictable geometric evolutions or utility transitions under predetermined excitation parameters. To exemplify, thermal activation triggers configurational restoration in shape memory polymers, a property widely utilized in 4D printing for attaining programmable morphing of complex geometries. Meanwhile, through multimaterial printing, 4D-printed objects gain expanded functionality via tailored combinations of responsive materials. Within the 4D printing workflow, design emerges as decisive, demanding meticulous analysis of the material's stimulus-reactive attributes, environmental stimulus parameters, as well as the desired morphing results. Through virtual prototyping and systematic design refinement, the manufactured object's target shape and utility are computable and achievable. For instance, Dan Raviv and his collaborators established an operational workflow for design-manufacturing collaborative simulation, employing self-evolving structure simulation and manufacturing techniques to successfully regulate complex deformation processes. All in all, by employing dynamic materials and optimized layer-by-layer production, 4D printing pioneers transformative methods for material engineering and functional evolution, with far-reaching functional application prospects.

Keywords

4D Printing; Additive Manufacturing; Smart Materials

References

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