The Massachusetts Institute of Technology develops a collection of objects that can accurately be described as magnetic shape-shifters. The entities are digitally produced and they range from a ring that changes its texture to a self-folding sheet. Perhaps the most impresive of the bunch is a spider-like creature that can "crawl, roll, jump and snap together quick enough to catch a passing ball."
In the development of these fun and innovative magnetic shape-shifters, the MIT engineers made use of specially developed 3D-printable ink that includes tiny magnetic particles. This is done by placing "an electromagnet around the nozzle of a 3D printer." As a result, when a magnet is waved in the vicinity, the objects respond adequately and "almost instantaneously."
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Digitally Printed Objects
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the potential of digitally printed objects that can respond to stimuli, opening up new possibilities for interactive and adaptive products.
- Magnetic Shape-shifting
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Investigate the application of magnetic shape-shifting technology in various industries, such as robotics, healthcare, and consumer electronics.
- 3D Printable Ink
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop advanced 3D printable inks infused with magnetic particles to enable the creation of responsive and dynamic objects in fields like architecture and fashion.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Robotics
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the integration of magnetic shape-shifters in robotics to create adaptable and versatile robotic systems with enhanced locomotion capabilities.
- Healthcare
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Investigate the use of magnetic shape-shifting objects in healthcare for applications such as controlled drug delivery, minimally invasive procedures, and surgical tools.
- Consumer Electronics
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate magnetic shape-shifting technology into consumer electronics to create interactive and customizable devices that can adapt to user preferences and needs.
