From 3D to 4D Printing - Design, Material and Fabrication for Multi-Functional Multi-Materials

In the era of multi-dimensional digital printing technology, engineering by multilayered 'top-down' methodologies are redefining manufacturing processes at multi-scale levels with atomic precision permitting unprecedented freedom to design complex structures at will. This challenges the current perception of conventional machining processes for unconventional materials (e.g. smart-stimuli responsive materials) that pose limitations in closing the gap between manufacturing processes and the increasing demand for rapid assembly procedures, miniaturized and cost-effective products predicted for emerging industries supplying innovative products to a rising population of end users. Driven by a growing need for customization, printing technologies are dynamically changing to meet the demands of a global market. Here, the conceptualization of 4D printing (4DP) platform and its impact on manufacturing scales and processes are discussed. Further, a 'new' conceptual insight into 4DP, high precision material design and the 'envisioned' roadmap for 4DP manufacturing is proposed