Working valve 4D printed
posted 08 June 2015 at 00:11:42
Researchers have been exploring the amazing potential of 4D
printing for a while now – that’s 3D printed objects that can change their shape
or appearance, under the influence of external factors such as temperature or
water. A recent breakthrough was made by professor Marc
in het Panhuis, of Wollongong University in Australia, who has 3D printed a functioning valve that responds to changes
in its surrounding water temperature. The clever thing about the valve is that,
once printed, its reaction is completely autonomous – it closes itself when it
detects hot water. Printed with four different types of hydrogel, the valve is
strong, flexible, soft and robust. This basic valve example is just the
starting point for developing more sophisticated designs with military, medical
and technological applications.
Image: © University of Wollongong