This study aims to provide an in-depth characterization of the intelligent behaviour exhibited by structures fabricated using fused deposition modelling (FDM) printing technology. The primary objective is to understand the variability in the shape-morphing behaviour of additively manufactured PLA structures. A comprehensive analysis is conducted to shed light on the impact of various factors on shape transformation, encompassing both working and printing parameters. To establish the relationship between the printing and working parameters with the shape morphing characteristics, the experimental procedure employs Taguchi's method design of experiments. Notably, the study quantitatively reveals the extent of these parameters' impact on the characteristics.
Research through design allows creating a dialogue with the material. It uses making andreflection on action as a generator of knowledge. Our aim is to explore the opportunities and challenges of smart textiles. The Fablab is our set up, a place that allows us to combine the hackingscientific-, and design community. It stimulates collaboration and the knowledge exchange needed for the development of smart textile systems. A collaborative prototyping workshop for medical products combined two worlds. The textile world in Saxion aims at incorporating conductive materials into textile structures and functional- / 3D printing to create systems for applications such as flexible heating systems and wearable technology. We combined this with the world of Industrial Design at TU/e, focused on the design of intelligent products, systems and services by the research through design approach. The collaboration between these different disciplines accelerated the process by reducing the resistance to the new and skipped the frustration on failure. Article from the Saxion Research Centre for Design and Technology published in the book 'Smart and Interactive Textile ' (pages 112-117), for the 4th International Conference Smart Materials, Structures and Systems, Montecatini Terme, Tuscany, Italy, 10th-14th June 2012.
MULTIFILE
This study explores the shape-morphing behavior of 4D-printed structures made from Polylactic Acid (PLA), a prominent bio-sourced shape-memory polymer. Focusing on the response of these structures to thermal stimuli, this research investigates how various printing parameters influence their morphing capabilities. The experimental approach integrates design and slicing, printing using fused deposition modeling (FDM), and a post-printing activation phase in a controlled laboratory environment. This process aims to replicate the external stimuli that induce shape morphing, highlighting the dynamic potential of 4D printing. Utilizing Taguchi’s Design of Experiments (DoE), this study examines the effects of printing speed, layer height, layer width, nozzle temperature, bed temperature, and activation temperature on the morphing behavior. The analysis includes precise measurements of deformation parameters, providing a comprehensive understanding of the morphing process. Regression models demonstrate strong correlations with observed data, suggesting their effectiveness in predicting responses based on control parameters. Additionally, finite element analysis (FEA) modeling successfully predicts the performance of these structures, validating its application as a design tool in 4D printing. This research contributes to the understanding of 4D printing dynamics and offers insights for optimizing printing processes to harness the full potential of shape-morphing materials. It sets a foundation for future research, particularly in exploring the relationship between printing parameters and the functional capabilities of 4D-printed structures.
