Templated self-assembly: Formation of folded structures by relaxation of pre-stressed, planar tapes

A strategy for the formation of three-dimensional (3D) structures based on the spontaneous folding of elastomeric tapes is described. These tapes are fabricated in crimped, quasi-3D forms, and carry metal features supporting liquid solder. Self-assembly based on capillary interactions between drops of liquid solder results in folding of the tapes into structures that have quasi- and true 3D topology (see Figure).