Systematic Development Strategy for Smart Devices Based on Shape-Memory Polymers

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Engineering
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Shape-memory polymers (SMPs) are advanced "smart" materials capable of significant geometric changes upon external stimuli.
• Their additive manufacturing potential enables complex geometries for enhanced actuator performance in aerospace and biomedical fields.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review challenges and best practices for developing "smart" actuators based on SMPs.
• To propose a straightforward methodology integrating computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided engineering (CAE), and additive manufacturing (AM).

Main Methods:

• Analysis and application of CAD, CAE, and AM technologies for actuator development.
• Consideration of geometrical design, optimization, activation systems, material selection, manufacturing, effect training, integration, and testing.

Main Results:

• A comprehensive methodology for the development of SMP-based actuators is presented.
• Integration of design and manufacturing strategies facilitates the creation of complex, high-performance actuators.

Conclusions:

• The methodology addresses key processes from design to testing, incorporating current trends like 3D/4D printing.
• Key challenges such as eco-efficiency and biocompatibility are discussed in the context of the proposed approach.