Joule heating of shape memory polymer composites can be utilized in self-folding origami to convert initially flat polymer sheets into three-dimensional structures. Activating the polymer through electric current offers advantages over other forms of stimuli, like light absorption or convection, due to its ability to deliver high energy density in short time. Self-folding origami via Joule heating requires localized activation of the polymer through an electric current stimulus applied along a conductive pathway. Since, shape memory polymers typically do not conduct electricity, a conductive filler must be incorporated into the host matrix to enable self-folding origami. Previous research focused on the experimental study of Joule heated conductive shape memory polymer composites which uniformly recover an undeformed shape. In the present investigation, we locally pattern SMP sheets with conductive fillers to provide a conductive pathway for Joule heating, which results in localized shape recovery and folding. A series of self-folding experiments were conducted, in which the polymer matrix and geometry was varied while keeping the conducting material and patterning technique the same. The experimental results are compared to multiphysics computational models to gain a better understanding of the Joule heat induced self-folding mechanisms. The results of this study are key to understanding the self-folding mechanisms when using Joule heating and provide a guideline for self-folding origami applications requiring fast activation.


Localized Joule Heating for Self-Folding of Shape Memory Polymer Origami

Division / Sponsors: 
Aerospace Division

Paper Proceedings: https://asmedigitalcollection.asme.org/SMASIS/SMASIS2020/volume/84027

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