Topologically Variable and Volumetric Morphing of 3D Architected Materials with Shape Locking

The study addresses a gap in designing 3D structures that can morph into a target shape while locking into the morphed state. The authors state that existing limitations hinder practical engineering use, especially for topologically variable and volumetric morphing. They propose an inverse design method for 3D architected materials. The method uses volumetric mapping of bistable unit cells onto chosen 3D morphing geometries, with kinematic and kinetic modifications to produce flat-foldable and volumetric morphing structures that can lock in the morphed states. The abstract also claims that topologically variable morphing could enable manufacturing volumetric structures from a 2D plane, potentially saving energy and materials compared with conventional 3D printing. It further states that volumetric morphing expands the design space for tunable physical properties without restricting the choice of base materials.