The role of biologically inspired design to 4D printing development

Additive manufacturing allows the assembly of objects layer-by-layer via ejection of proper material. It leads to an accurate programming of the properties as well as dimensions of intricate printed objects. Whereas 3D printing manufactures motionless structures, the novel 4D printing empowers the fabrication of animated structures. In this kind of additive manufacturing, the printed objects change their shape over time via passive energy while in contact with certain external stimuli. Therefore, it has deep relations with the self-assembly concept that is a process frequently experienced in nature in that the disordered parts fabricate an organized structure via local association. The reason for that is those beings are prone to reorder their shape according to specific challenges imposed by the environment itself and by customized needs for growth and survival along their life span. Technological innovative solutions can be created from the observation of living beings’ biomechanics and biological systems that are responsive to environmental stimuli. Avenues for that are the hybrid technologies that enable new functionalities where shape adaptation and reaction to stimuli are key requirements. This may happen via the partnership between deployment mechanisms and sustainable materials. This field totally integrates the digital creation process and manufacturing with materials design within the context of self-assembly. Bioinspired self-assembly has already enabled advances in applications in fields such as material science, medicine, software, robotics, transportation, manufacturing, infrastructure and aerospace. It is also expected to impact even the food sector and the creative industry in the next few years.