4D printing: Computational mechanical design of bi-dimensional 3D printed patterns over tensioned textiles for low-energy three-dimensional volumes

Abstract

From the distribution of the embedded energy in materials, can be operated in order to design and produce optimized material systems with minimum use of external energy to achieve its maximum three-dimensional capacity within their mechanical constraints. This research studies the process of 3D printing bidimensional layers over a tensioned fabric to generate three-dimensional shapes. After the tension of the fabric is released, the printed pattern generates tension and compression over the textile, which conduce and distribute the internal forces generating a controlled deformation with a final form. Digital simulation of finite anticlastic shapes and parametric design under mechanical constraints of the material used to predict and compare both physical and digital forms. These allow us to evaluate and optimize the printed pattern in order to decrease the amount of used energy and material to produce a performative shape.