4D Printing of Magnetically Functionalized Chainmail for Exoskeletal Biomedical Applications
Chainmail fabrics manufactured by selective laser sintering 3D printing have been magnetically functionalized to create a lightweight, 4D printed, actuating fabric. The post processing method involves submerging the porous prints in commercial ferrofluid (oil based magnetic liquid) followed by drying under heat. The actuation of the chainmail has been simulated using a rigid multi body physics engine, and qualitatively matches experiment. Such magnetically actuating fabrics have potential to make thin, lightweight and comfortable wearable assistive devices.
MRS Advances