Perspective of 4D Printing in Additive Manufacturing

Abstract

The present paper discusses an overview about 4D printing and its applications in different areas. The overview consists of basic discussion on 3D printing or also termed as Additive manufacturing (AM), it operating technique and materials used to make products. 4D printing is based on 3D printing technique and the only difference is that, it uses smart material to print the required product. Information regarding smart materials, their types and method of operation or working is discussed in the paper. Shape shifters, shape memory alloys, shape memory polymers, gels and other active smart materials are some of the significant and most commonly used smart materials which are mentioned in the paper. The paper also includes the various affecting factors and modes by which the response stimulus is generated among the smart materials and accordingly performs the stimulus action. Discussion on stimulus response by effect of heat, water, electric as well as magnetic field, light rays etc. are briefly mentioned in the paper. Lastly, application of 4D printing technology in various fields such as mechanical, medical, commercial, general purpose have been discussed along with scope and suggestions to implement its use further is added in the conclusion.