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Netherlands develops 3D mesh folding technology to replace 3D printing
Recently, researchers at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands have introduced an innovative approach to creating 3D grid structures, using intricate folding techniques rather than traditional 3D printing. This breakthrough could revolutionize the development of flexible electronics, advanced metamaterials, and medical implants with enhanced tissue regeneration capabilities.
The new method draws inspiration from origami, the ancient Japanese art of paper folding, but applies it to complex 3D lattice structures. Instead of relying on solid 3D printed parts, the team uses a flat, patterned material that can be folded into highly detailed and functional 3D shapes. This technique allows for full access to the internal surfaces, which is a major advantage over conventional 3D printing methods.
According to Professor Amir Zadpoor, who led the research, the key benefit of this approach is the ability to decorate and modify the entire surface of the structure—something that was previously challenging with 3D printed grids. “We’ve found a way to combine free-form surface design with a lattice structure, which was thought to be impossible before,†he said.
The team has categorized their folded 3D lattices into three distinct types, each with unique folding strategies. Some of these structures even feature self-folding mechanisms, enabling them to automatically transform from a flat state into a 3D shape when exposed to specific environmental factors like temperature changes.
This advancement opens up new possibilities for applications in various fields, including medical devices that can better integrate with human tissue, lightweight industrial components, and smart materials that respond to external stimuli. The study, published in *Science Advances*, highlights how nanoscale decorations can now be applied to flat surfaces with remarkable precision.
By combining the principles of origami with modern nanofabrication techniques, the researchers are paving the way for more versatile and functional 3D structures. This innovation not only challenges the limitations of 3D printing but also expands the potential of what can be achieved in material science and engineering.