A Structured Approach to 4D Printing for Rapid Prototyping in Construction

Over the past three decades, the success of 3D printing technology has led researchers to achieve 4D technology by investigating and improving on 3D printing technology. 4D printing has emerged as research related to smart materials has progressed. With 4D printing, it is possible to create movement and change the shape and size of printed microstructures. Shape memory materials can be programmed to change with stimuli such as temperature, light, electricity, humidity, magnetism, etc. Using 4D printing, shape memory materials can be programmed to change with these stimuli. These dynamic changes could have the potential to revolutionize or change many industries. It appears that most research has focused on material properties and optimization of 4D printing method. The practical application of 4D printing in industries such as construction is still in its infancy. Many research studies have stated that the use of new technologies in the industry today is one of the practical ways to achieve optimal productivity. This project aims to pave the way for the use of 4D printing technology in the construction sector by proposing a neutral conceptual framework. The framework is evaluated by printing shape-memory materials available in the market using Fused deposition modelling (FDM) technology. By planning the types of movements and desired locations, choosing materials and types of movement, and assessing the expected changes in smaller laboratory models, conclusions can be reached for the use of these methods on larger scales. This research will investigate the basic and practical procedures of 4D printing as well as materials, stimuli, and printing technology. A 3D origami is printed using parts made of 3D printing materials as fixed materials and shape memory materials as materials that create movement.