At the threshold of a new 4D printing process

Abstract

The 4D printing process is the continuation of the evolution of the 3D additive manufacturing process in which imprinted objects change shape over time. In 3D printing, the imprinted object keeps the same final shape, while in the 4D process, imprinted objects, stimulated by external stimuli, change their shape and function. The development focuses on designing new “smart” materials depending on the end use. These “metamaterials” with new features would have wide, almost unimagined possibilities, especially in the field of medicine. It is also used in other fields ranging from military, construction field, clothing to consumer goods.