Zhao Wang¹, Jun Liu¹, Xiaoying Qi², Chadur Venkatesan², Sharon Nai², David W. Rosen^1,2,*

The International Conference on Computational & Experimental Engineering and Sciences, Vol.31, No.4, pp. 1-2, 2024, DOI:10.32604/icces.2024.011890

Abstract Shape memory polymers (SMP) have many applications as actuators in soft robotics. However, predicting their shape change behavior is challenging, which makes designing suitable actuators difficult. For thermally stimulated shape memory polymers, constitutive models of shape change behavior show promise in enabling predictable shape changes, which is necessary for actuator design. These models are usually classified as either rheological or phase transition, with the former being more general, although non-physical in nature, and the latter being more physically significant [1]. Of interest in this work is 2-state shape change transitions for single-material actuators; that is,… More >

Jiazhao Huang¹, Xiaoying Qi¹, Chu Long Tham¹, Hang Li Seet¹, Sharon Mui Ling Nai¹, David William Rosen^1,2,*

The International Conference on Computational & Experimental Engineering and Sciences, Vol.31, No.3, pp. 1-2, 2024, DOI:10.32604/icces.2024.012040

Abstract The emergence of 4D printing introduces stimuli-responsive, shape-changing capabilities through additive manufacturing (AM) and smart materials, has advanced the field of soft robotics. However, there are currently lack of methods or tools that capable of aiding in the generative design of 4D AM structures. The current generative design procedure for 4D AM structures often lacks transferability among various structures due to limited understanding of shape memory material behaviors for soft robotics. To develop such a digital library, investigation of fundamental elements, such as material properties of shape memory materials, geometry parameters of design primitives, and… More >

Hongyu Zhou¹, Hortense Le Ferrand^1,2,*

The International Conference on Computational & Experimental Engineering and Sciences, Vol.31, No.2, pp. 1-1, 2024, DOI:10.32604/icces.2024.010990

Abstract 4D printing enables 3D-printed structures to morph upon being exposed to external stimuli. Amongst all engineering materials, polymers show high 3D printability as well as tunability regarding to its morphing behaviour and functionalities. Generally, composites with epoxy as matrix shows high modulus and strength, whereas its mechanically brittle property makes it difficult to be morphed and snapped-through at room temperature, thereby limiting its 4D printability and its functionality. On the other, Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), as an elastomer, shows its high elasticity and stretchability, yet its printability and mechanical properties of its printed composites still need improving… More >

Weixiang Peng¹, Hortense Le Ferrand^1,2,*

The International Conference on Computational & Experimental Engineering and Sciences, Vol.31, No.1, pp. 1-2, 2024, DOI:10.32604/icces.2024.011119

Abstract Natural structural materials have undergone extensive evolution, resulting in intricate microstructural designs over billions of years. These designs have given rise to a diverse array of hierarchical microstructures that exhibit exceptional performance in terms of strength, resilience, toughness, and adaptability [1]. Among these natural microstructures, the microplatelet-based brick-and-mortar arrangement found in the nacreous layers of seashells has been the subject of extensive study. Additionally, more complex microstructural alignments exist, and these mineral orientations showcase varying properties, such as the shrinkage deformations. Inspired by the observed expansion deformation characteristics in nature, this study delves into the… More >

MANIKANDAN.N^1,*, RAJESH.P.K¹

Journal of Polymer Materials, Vol.38, No.3-4, pp. 327-336, 2021, DOI:10.32381/JPM.2021.38.3-4.12

Abstract In this research, a new method to fabricate multi-material, multi-shape changing polymer composites is proposed. The method aims to reduce the number of thermomechanical programming steps involved in achieving shape change in a shape memory polymer (SMP) composite structure by including the programming steps directly into the printing process. After a single step of mechanical deformation and thermal loading, the SMP fibers can be activated sequentially to control the shape change. Composite strip samples were fabricated using a Stratasys Objet 260 multimaterial printer. Two polymer inks VeroPureWhite and Agilus30 were used as primary materials. The… More >

Kerlin P. Robert¹, Jiaoyan Li², James D. Lee^1,*

Molecular & Cellular Biomechanics, Vol.16, Suppl.2, pp. 74-74, 2019, DOI:10.32604/mcb.2019.07125

Abstract This presentation focuses on the new and upcoming concept of 4D printing and its vast scope and importance in the research and development in industry. The 3D printing object is considered as a layered structure. Each layer may have different orientation. Therefore each layer may behave differently under the change of its environment. We formulate the theoretical shape changing process of 4D printing resulted from (I) the biological growth or swelling, (II) the change of temperature, and (III) the effect of electric field on piezoelectric material of the 3D printing product. Then we illustrate this More >