Researchers at Northwestern University’s School of Engineering (Northwestern University) have invented a manufacturing process inspired by the Eastern art of paper cutting that can create objects of various shapes at the microscopic nanoscale.
Kirigami is the art of folding and cutting paper to create symmetrical flat or three-dimensional patterns when unfolded. This study draws on this ancient art to create a variety of complex structures without the use of 3-D printing, using very thin materials that have been cut out by computer computational design.
A study published in 2015 has already used the art of paper cutting to build some structures, but they are closed shapes. This recent study, published in the journal Advanced Materials, applies this approach to materials at the microscopic nanoscale.
The researchers first built a flat film material and then cut it on the film according to the design. Finally, the film material automatically bends and buckles along the cut lines under residual stress, creating a three-dimensional structure.
The video published in this study shows the creation of a relatively simple structure that curves like a paper tooth.
The researchers say that after complex computer software calculations, with microscopic observation of the cutout, can be built a variety of desired structures, in space light modulators, wing airflow control and other applications have good prospects.
The researchers plan to design structures with more functions to develop the use of this manufacturing process in construction, aviation, environmental engineering and other fields.
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