1/27/2015 Authors: Dongping Deng; Yong Chen
J. Mech. Des.. 2015; 137(2):021701-021701-12
doi: 10.1115/1.4029066
Self-folding structures are beneficial for a wide variety of applications including biomedical and electronics products. In this paper a novel fabrication approach based on a three-dimensional (3D) printing process is presented for fabricating self-folding structures that can be actuated in a heating environment. The designed and fabricated thermo-actuating structures are two-dimensional (2D) origami sheets that have multiple printed layers. The middle layer of an origami sheet is a pre-strained polystyrene film with large shrinkage ratios when heated. Both its top and bottom surfaces are covered with printed polymers with designed shapes. A foldable hinge is achieved by constraining the shrinkage of the film on one side while allowing the shrinkage of the film on another side when heated. Heuristic models of hinge folding angles are developed. Various experimental tests based on the developed 2D origami design and fabrication method are presented. Techniques on improving folding angle control are also discussed with possible applications.
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