Tuning the Properties of Multi-Stable Structures Post-Fabrication Via the Two-Way Shape Memory Polymer Effect

Multi-stable elements are commonly employed to design reconfigurable and adaptive structures, because they enable large and reversible shape changes in response to changing loads, while simultaneously allowing self-locking capabilities. However, existing multi-stable structures have properties that depend on their initial design and cannot be tailored post-fabrication. Here, a novel design approach is presented that combines multi-stable structures with two-way shape memory polymers. By leveraging both the one-way and two-way shape memory effect under bi-axial strain conditions, the structures can re-program their 3D shape, bear loads, and self-actuate. Results demonstrate that the structures' shape and stiffness can be tuned post-fabrication at the user's need and the multi-stability can be suppressed or activated on command. The control of multi-stability prevents undesired snapping of the structures and enables higher load-bearing capability, compared to conventional multi-stable systems. The proposed approach offers the possibility to augment the functionality of existing multi-stable concepts, showing potential for the realization of highly adaptable mechanical structures that can reversibly switch between being mono and multi-stable and that can undergo shape changes in response to a change in temperature.