4D Printing Technology

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“4D” printing is an emerging technology that 3D-prints solid components programmed to change into other shapes when certain environmental parameters - temperature, light, and humidity are reached. Thus, the “fourth dimension” is, literally, transformation. This ability depends on the development and use of unique programmable materials. Although 4D printing is still an emerging field, it has huge potential for expanding engineering design.

The term "4D printing" describes the single- or multi-material printing of an apparatus or item that has the ability to morph between various dimensions and change from a 1D strand into a pre-programmed 3D shape or from a 2D surface into a pre-programmed 3D shape. These changes are made possible, for example, by heating, light, or swelling in a liquid. They can also be produced electrochemically and by programming varying levels of sensitivity to, for example, swelling into different areas of the intended geometry.

These methods provide dynamic response and adaptability for systems and structures of varying sizes. They also hold out new possibilities for integrating decision-making simplicity and programmability into non-electronic materials.