Submitted by: Greg Conder, PE
4D Printing: Technology of the Future
What dimension could be added to 3D printing technology? As in a human’s 3D world, the dimension of time. According to this article from Machine Design, innovations in materials are leading to the creation of components that can self-assemble, reshape themselves and react to changing conditions. These changing conditions could involve water, light, heat, air flow and electrical currents.
The article discusses 4D innovations such as a self-assembling shoe, an airway splint for infants and aerospace components to control air flow. There are many possibilities with 4D printing. It will be interesting for us to see how many of our customers adopt this new technology.
Let us know how we can assist you in your 3D and 4D printing needs.
