Morphing Matter Lab

A magnetic assembly–based modular design is presented. These modularized parts can be easily and precisely reconfigured with off-the-shelf or easy-to-machine parts that can meet different processing requirements such as mechanical mixing, chemical reaction, light activation, and solution vaporization. In addition, xPrint supports an open-source, highly customizable software design and simulation platform, which is applicable for simulating and facilitating smart material constructions.

All modular components are designed with specific mechanical structures and magnet assemblies for easy plugging/unplugging and configuration. To save space and keep them clean, all components can rest on top of the ceiling of the printer case. All modules are designed in such a way that the magnets ensure the same exact placement location each time.

Different dispensing tips can be exchanged. Spray coating, atomizing, thin-tip dispensing and brushes with different stroks are available from out standard kits.

Customized containers with stiring module are provide to contain solutions that cause sendementations. For example, bacterial printing is beneficial from this setup.

Dual dispensing nozzles can be set up for sequential printing.

xPrint focuses on printing smart, particularly active materials, which come in a liquid solution and solidify under particular chemical reactions or physical transformations.

To demonstrate the system’s flexibility to accommodate different types of smart material, we chose four materials: Natto cells as RH responsive actuators, Calcium alginate, Hydrogel swells in water, and Thermochromic film that changes color with temperature.