Researchers at MIT have unveiled an innovative technique that allows for the rapid transformation of flat, interconnected tile patterns into functional 3D structures through a simple tug on a string. This groundbreaking method holds promise for a variety of applications, including collapsible bike helmets, medical apparatus, and emergency shelters in disaster-stricken areas.
Led by Mina Konaković Luković from the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL), the team drew inspiration from kirigami, the traditional Japanese art of paper cutting. They developed an algorithm that translates a specified 3D design into a planar arrangement of tiles linked by rotating hinges. Utilizing a two-step optimization process, the algorithm determines the most efficient path for a string that actuates the structure, minimizing friction to ensure smooth deployment. This approach not only facilitates the creation of complex shapes but also allows for a seamless return to the original flat configuration.
The implications of this technology are vast. With the potential for 3D printing, CNC milling, and molding techniques to produce these structures, the applications range from portable medical devices and foldable robots to modular habitats for extraterrestrial exploration. According to Akib Zaman, the lead author of the study, the simplicity of the actuation mechanism is a significant advantage; users can input their design, and the algorithm will optimize it for easy deployment with just one pull. As the research progresses, the team aims to explore both miniature medical devices and large-scale architectural structures, as well as develop self-deploying mechanisms to enhance usability.
Source: Just pull a string to turn these tile patterns into useful 3D structures via MIT Technology Review