Shape-changeable structure

Abstract

This shape-changeable structure comprises a non-deformable part and a deformable part. The non-deformable part has a first stiffness and a first thermal diffusivity. The deformable part is formed continuously with the non-deformable part and has a second stiffness lower than the first stiffness and a second thermal diffusivity lower than the first thermal diffusivity.

Description

shape-variable structure

[0001] The present invention relates to a shape-variable structure, and more specifically, to a shape-variable structure configured to allow mechanical deformation in a part where heat is concentrated, thereby inducing deformation in that part more efficiently and improving the response speed and durability of the shape-variable element.

[0002] In the case of shape memory devices, they are configured to change their shape in response to an external stimulus and then return to their original state as the external stimulus disappears, and development of various types of shape memory devices is being carried out.

[0003] However, until recently, in the case of shape-changing devices, devices whose shape changes or recovers depending on temperature changes or the application of heat, such as shape memory alloy (SMA), shape memory polymer (SMP), liquid crystal elastomer (LCE), and vitrimer, have been mainly developed.

[0004] For example, Korean Registered Patent No. 10-2142350 discloses a shape-changing composite configured to include a heat transfer layer, wherein the shape changes depending on the provision of external electric heat; and Korean Published Patent No. 10-2023-0174820 also discloses technology regarding a shape-memory polymer having a structure in which the device changes shape through heating and returns to its original shape through cooling.

[0005] However, in the case of a shape-variable element whose shape changes depending on the supply of heat as described above, if other temperature-sensitive elements are included simultaneously, problems may arise in which the driving reliability of said other elements deteriorates due to temperature variations. Furthermore, since the shape change and restoration are performed only when heating and cooling are repeated, there is a problem in which the response speed or durability of the element is reduced.

[0006] Related prior art literature includes Korean registered patent No. 10-2142350 and Korean published patent No. 10-2023-0174820, and papers include "3D Shape-Morphing Display Enabled by Electrothermally Responsive, Stiffness-Tunable Liquid Metal Platform with Stretchable Electroluminescent Device," *Advanced functional materials*, Vol.33, Issue 24 (Published: 10 March 2023), and "35Hz shape memory alloy actuator with bending-twisting mode," *Scientific reports 6*, Article number: 21118 (Published: 19 February 2016).

[0007] Accordingly, the technical problem of the present invention is conceived from this point, and the objective of the present invention is to provide a shape-variable structure capable of improving the response speed and durability of a shape-variable element by configuring it to allow mechanical deformation in the part where heat is concentrated, thereby inducing deformation in that part more efficiently.

[0008] The present invention includes a non-deformable part and a deformable part according to one embodiment for realizing the purpose of the present invention described above. The non-deformable part has a first stiffness and a first thermal diffusivity. The deformable part is formed continuously with the non-deformable part and has a second stiffness lower than the first stiffness and a second thermal diffusivity lower than the first thermal diffusivity.

[0009] In one embodiment, when a physical stimulus is applied, the deformed portion may be deformed more than the non-deformed portion, and when a thermal stimulus is applied, the deformed portion may be deformed more than the non-deformed portion.

[0010] In one embodiment, the thermal stimulus may include any one of Joule heating, induction heating, microwave heating, ultrasonic heating, and radio frequency heating applied from the inside, or any one of radiant heat, conductive heat, and convective heat applied from the outside.

[0011] In one embodiment, to implement deformation against the radiant heat, the non-deformable part may comprise a ceramic material, a metal material, or a glass fiber composite material, and the deformable part may comprise a carbon polymer composite, a ceramic polymer composite, or a ceramic material coated or containing a material with a high infrared absorption rate.

[0012] In one embodiment, to implement deformation for conductive or convective heat, the non-deformable part may include a ceramic material, a glass fiber composite material, a carbon fiber composite material, or a high-rigidity polymer material, and the deformable part may include a carbon polymer composite material, a thermally conductive polymer material, or a liquid metal-based material.

[0013] In one embodiment, the non-deformable part comprises a ceramic, metal, metal oxide, glass fiber composite, or carbon fiber composite, and the deformable part may comprise a carbon polymer composite, a ceramic polymer composite, a thermally conductive polymer material, a liquid metal-based material, a polymer, or a foamed material.

[0014] In one embodiment, the deformable part may include a first layer having the second stiffness and the second thermal diffusivity, and the non-deformable part may include the first layer and a second layer laminated to the first layer having a stiffness greater than the second stiffness and a thermal diffusivity greater than the second thermal diffusivity.

[0015] In one embodiment, the non-deformed portion and the deformed portion comprise the same material, and the deformed portion may be extended with a reduced width compared to the non-deformed portion.

[0016] In one embodiment, the non-deformed portion is formed on both sides of the deformed portion, and the deformed portion may be extended in a shape with a constricted center.

[0017] In one embodiment, the non-deformed part and the deformed part may be alternately continuous.

[0018] In one embodiment, either of the non-deformed portion and the deformed portion is arranged in a predetermined pattern on a plate, and the other of the non-deformed portion and the deformed portion may be formed in an area where the pattern is not formed.

[0019] In one embodiment, either of the non-deformed part and the deformed part has a three-dimensional shape of a predetermined volume, and the other of the non-deformed part and the deformed part may have a volume smaller than the volume of the three-dimensional shape inside the three-dimensional shape and be arranged in a predetermined pattern.

[0020] In one embodiment, the non-deformable part is formed by depositing, attaching, or printing a material having the first stiffness and the first thermal diffusivity, and the deformable part can be formed by depositing, attaching, or printing a material having the second stiffness and the second thermal diffusivity.

[0021] In one embodiment, the non-deformed part and the deformed part can be formed continuously by a 3D printing process.

[0022] In one embodiment, the non-deformable portion has a plate shape with a predetermined area, and the deformable portion may be formed as an opening of a predetermined pattern on the non-deformable portion.

[0023] In one embodiment, the deformation portion includes a vertical pattern extending in a first direction and a horizontal pattern extending in a second direction adjacent to the vertical pattern, and the ends of the vertical pattern and the horizontal pattern may be bent or have holes formed therein.

[0024] In one embodiment, the non-deformable part has a plate shape of a predetermined area, and the deformable part may form a connecting part that connects the non-deformable parts adjacent to each other.

[0025] In one embodiment, the deformation part may include a hinge or spring structure.

[0026] In one embodiment, the non-deformable portion has a plate shape with a predetermined area, and the deformable portion may form an extension portion extending a predetermined length from the corner of the non-deformable portion.

[0027] In one embodiment, a device is mounted in the non-deformable portion, and wiring for driving the device may be formed in the deformable portion.

[0028] According to embodiments of the present invention, by forming a deformation portion such that the portion deformed by applying a physical stimulus matches the portion deformed by applying a thermal stimulus, the efficiency of the deformation and shape restoration of the deformation portion, the response speed, and further durability can be further improved.

[0029] At this time, the deformable part and the non-deformable part may be formed to include different materials so that only the deformable part is induced to vary in response to the physical stimulus and the thermal stimulus, or alternatively, the structure of the deformable part may be designed to have relatively low stiffness to induce variation of the deformable part, thereby allowing the shape-variable structure to be manufactured through various structures and designs.

[0030] In addition, the above thermal stimulus can be configured so that the same part can be deformed by various thermal stimuli along with physical stimuli by selecting and forming a material that allows it to be deformed according to various factors of internal as well as external thermal stimuli.

[0031] At this time, the deformation portion where the physical and thermal deformation is performed and the non-deformation portion where the deformation is not performed can be alternately continuous with each other, and may be formed in a partitioned area having a predetermined arrangement pattern on a plate, or may be formed in a partitioned area within a three-dimensional structure, so the shape-variable structure can be configured in various two-dimensional or three-dimensional structures.

[0032] In addition, the shape-variable structure can be manufactured through deposition, attachment, or printing processes via patterning of the deformable part and the non-deformable part, as well as through continuous manufacturing via 3D printing, thereby enabling production through various processes.

[0033] In addition, as the above-mentioned non-deformable part forms a plate shape of a predetermined area and the above-mentioned deformable part is formed as an opening of a predetermined pattern, the shape-variable structure can be manufactured as a variable shape structure in a specific area based on the pattern of the opening.

[0034] In addition, while the non-deformable part forms a plate shape of a predetermined area, the deformable part may be manufactured as a hinge or spring structure connecting adjacent non-deformable parts, thereby having a variable shape structure at the connection part, or the deformable part may be formed as a structure extending from the non-deformable part, thereby having the extension part manufactured as a variable shape structure. Through this, it is possible to manufacture a shape-variable structure of a more diverse structure in which the part that changes due to physical and thermal stimuli is the same.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 4 is a plan view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIGS. 7a to 7c are plan views illustrating shape-variable structures according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] <Explanation of Symbols>

[0045] 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 200 : Shape-variable structure

[0046] 11, 23, 31, 41, 51, 61: Non-transformed parts

[0047] 12, 24, 32, 42, 52, 62 : Variant part

[0048] 21: 1st Floor 22: 2nd Floor

[0049] 71, 81, 91, 110, 210: Plate section

[0050] 72: Pattern 1 73, 84: Hole 1

[0051] 74: 2nd pattern 82, 92: 1st vertical pattern

[0052] 83, 93: 2nd vertical pattern 85, 95: 1st horizontal pattern

[0053] 86, 96: 2nd horizontal pattern 87: 2nd hole

[0054] 97 : Fillet 111, 211 : Corner

[0055] 120 : Connection part 220 : Extension part

[0056]

[0057] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and may take various forms, and embodiments are to be described in detail in the text. However, this is not intended to limit the invention to the specific disclosed forms, and it should be understood that the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention. Similar reference numerals have been used for similar components in the description of each figure. Terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components should not be limited by said terms.

[0058] The above terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. The terms used in this application are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "comprising" or "consisting of" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0059] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0060] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 1, the shape-variable structure (10) according to the present embodiment includes a non-deformable part (11) and a deformable part (12). At this time, as illustrated, the shape-variable structure (10) forms a structure in which the deformable part (12) is formed in the center and the non-deformable parts (11) are connected in pairs on both sides of the deformable part (12). Of course, this is not limited thereto, and the deformable part (12) may additionally be formed in the outer direction of the non-deformable parts (11). Also, although the drawing illustrates that the non-deformable part (11) and the deformable part (12) each have the same area, this is not limited thereto and they may be formed with different areas.

[0062] Furthermore, when a pair of non-deformed parts (11) are formed on both sides based on the central deformed part (12), the areas of the pair of non-deformed parts (11) can also be formed differently from each other.

[0063] In this embodiment, the non-deformable part (11) has a first stiffness and a first thermal diffusivity. In this specification, stiffness is described as a hard property in which the shape or structure is maintained by external physical stimuli or forces, and thermal diffusivity is described as the degree to which heat transfer is hindered. At this time, the thermal diffusivity can be defined by the following equation (1).

[0064]

[0065] Accordingly, as described in this specification, high rigidity means that the shape or structure is maintained relatively stably under external physical stimuli or forces, and deformation is relatively small. Furthermore, high thermal diffusivity means that heat or temperature transfer due to external thermal stimuli or temperature changes is relatively difficult, and thus the temperature change in response to thermal stimuli is small.

[0066] Meanwhile, the deformed portion (12) has a second stiffness lower than the first stiffness and a second thermal diffusivity lower than the first thermal diffusivity. That is, the deformed portion (12) has lower stiffness and lower thermal diffusivity than the non-deformed portion (11).

[0067] As described above, since the non-deformable part (11) has relatively greater rigidity compared to the deformable part (12), the deformation is minimized even when the shape-variable structure (10) is deformed by external physical stimulation. In addition, since the non-deformable part (11) has a relatively higher heat capacity compared to the deformable part (12), the rise in temperature is suppressed even when the shape-variable structure (10) is deformed by thermal stimulation.

[0068] Ultimately, when a physical stimulus or a thermal stimulus is applied from the outside to the shape-variable structure (10), the deformation of the non-deformed part (11) is minimized, and only the deformation part (12) is deformed. Thus, the shape-variable structure (10) undergoes deformation only in a portion of the area where the deformation part (12) is formed. Likewise, when the physical stimulus or the thermal stimulus is removed, the deformation of the non-deformed part (11) is minimized, and only the deformation part (12) is restored from the deformed state to its original state.

[0069] Thus, it serves as a variable shape structure in which deformation and restoration are repeatedly performed only in the area where the deformation part (12) is formed. In addition, the deformation part (12) undergoes deformation and restoration in response to both physical and thermal stimuli, so the structure is such that the variable shape is realized only in the same area regardless of the type of stimulus.

[0070] Of course, although the above description explains that only the deformed part (12) undergoes deformation and restoration while the non-deformed part (11) maintains its shape identically, the non-deformed part (11) does not maintain its shape completely identically, but rather maintains its shape relatively compared to the deformed part (12). That is, the intensity of the external physical or thermal stimulus that initiates deformation in the non-deformed part (11) is greater than that of the deformed part (12), so if a physical or thermal stimulus greater than the stimulus that initiates deformation is provided, it can naturally be deformed to a certain extent.

[0071] Meanwhile, in this embodiment, the non-deformable part (11) and the deformable part (12) have different rigidity and thermal properties, and thus may include different materials.

[0072] For example, the non-deformable part (11) may include a ceramic material such as SiC (silicon carbide) or ZrO2 (zirconium dioxide), a metal material such as steel, Al (aluminum), or Ti (titanium). Alternatively, the deformable part (12) may include a polymer material such as polyurethane, polyethylene, or polypropylene, or a foamed material such as polyurethane foam.

[0073] Meanwhile, the above physical stimulus refers to a stimulus caused by a physical force applied from the outside, and may include, for example, various external forces or impact forces.

[0074] In addition, the thermal stimulation may include any one of Joule heating, induction heating, microwave heating, ultrasonic heating, and radio frequency heating applied from the inside.

[0075] Additionally, the thermal stimulus may include any one of radiant heat, conductive heat, and convective heat applied from the outside. In this case, the means for providing the radiant heat may be, for example, an infrared lamp; the means for providing the conductive heat may be, for example, a micro heater; and the means for providing the convective heat may be, for example, a warm air blower or a hot air blower. Of course, it is not limited to the means exemplified above. Furthermore, any stimulus capable of thermally varying the deformation part (12) may be included, even if not exemplified above.

[0076] Meanwhile, regarding the thermal stimulation provided internally, for example, the Joule heating corresponds to heating through the application of current, and a current application member for separate Joule heating may be provided in the shape-variable structure. At this time, when the Joule heating is applied, the deformation part (12) has a relatively low thermal diffusivity, so deformation is performed more easily according to heating by the applied current.

[0077] In addition, in the case of the above-mentioned induction heating, the shape-variable structure (10) may be configured to allow an induction current to be applied from the deformation part (12), and likewise, in the case of the above-mentioned microwave or ultrasonic heating and further radio frequency heating, the shape-variable structure (10) may be configured to allow microwave, ultrasonic, or radio frequency to be applied to the deformation part (12).

[0078] Furthermore, regarding external thermal stimuli, for example, in the case of infrared heating, which is radiant heat, the deformation part (12) has a relatively low thermal diffusivity, so the absorption rate of the radiant heat is high, and thus easy deformation is induced. Also, in the case of conductive heat, the shape-variable structure (10) can be configured so that a conductive heat providing part is adjacent to the deformation part (12) to provide conductive heat. Also, in the case of convective heat, likewise, the deformation part (12) has a relatively low thermal diffusivity, so the absorption rate or heat transfer coefficient of the convective heat is high, and thus easier deformation can be induced.

[0079] Meanwhile, although the materials of the non-deformable part (11) and the deformable part (12) were described above as examples, more suitable materials that can induce different deformations depending on the thermal stimulation provided from the outside are exemplified as follows.

[0080] For example, to more effectively implement the deformation for the above-mentioned radiant heat, the non-deformable part (11) may include a ceramic material such as SiC (silicon carbide) or Al2O3 (aluminum oxide), a metal material such as steel, Al (aluminum), or Ti (titanium), or a glass fiber composite material such as GFRP (glass fiber reinforced polymer). At this time, the deformable part (12) may include a carbon polymer composite material, a ceramic polymer composite material, which is a CNT (carbon nanotube) or graphite-based composite polymer material, or a ceramic material coated or containing a material with a high infrared absorption rate.

[0081] In addition, to more effectively implement the deformation for the above-mentioned conductive heat, the non-deformable part (11) may include ceramic materials such as SiC (silicon carbide), ZrO2 (zirconium dioxide), SiO2 (silicon dioxide), Al2O3 (aluminum oxide), glass fiber composite materials such as GFRP (glass fiber reinforced polymer), carbon fiber composite materials such as CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer), or high-rigidity polymer materials such as epoxy, PI (polyimide). At this time, the deformable part (12) may include carbon polymer composite materials such as CNT (carbon nanotube) or graphite-based composite polymer materials, thermally conductive polymer materials, or liquid metal-based materials such as EGaIn (gallium-indium alloy).

[0082] Furthermore, in order to more effectively implement the deformation for the above convective heat, the non-deformable part (11) may include ceramic materials such as SiC (silicon carbide), ZrO2 (zirconium dioxide), SiO2 (silicon dioxide), Al2O3 (aluminum oxide), metal oxides, glass fiber composite materials such as GFRP (glass fiber reinforced polymer), carbon fiber composite materials such as CFRP (carbon fiber reinforced polymer), or high-rigidity polymer materials such as epoxy and PI (polyimide). At this time, the deformable part (12) may include carbon polymer composites such as CNT (carbon nanotube) or graphite-based composite polymer materials, thermally conductive polymer materials, liquid metal-based materials such as liquid metal, or gel-type materials.

[0083] Of course, the materials exemplified above are not limited to this and can be varied in many ways.

[0084] As described above, in the case of the shape-variable structure (10) according to the present embodiment, the deformation part (12) and the non-deformation part (11) are configured to include different materials, so that the degree of deformation in response to physical or thermal stimulation can be formed differently.

[0085] Meanwhile, in the shape-variable structure (10) as in the present embodiment, the mutually facing edges of the deformed part (12) and the non-deformed part (11) can be manufactured by joining them together using various joining techniques. That is, any technique capable of joining the edges of different materials can be applied.

[0086] Furthermore, in the case of the shape-variable structure (10) as in the present embodiment, an element is mounted on the non-deformable part (11), and wiring for driving the element is formed on the deformable part (11), so that it can be manufactured as a device that performs a predetermined operation. That is, by mounting the element on the non-deformable part (11), which is relatively resistant to deformation, the element can maintain a fixed state in a stable structure, and the device can be manufactured as a structure capable of shape-variability overall.

[0087] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 2, the shape-variable structure (20) according to the present embodiment also includes a non-deformable part (23) and a deformable part (24). At this time, as illustrated, in the shape-variable structure (20), the deformable part (24) is formed in the center, and the non-deformable parts (23) are connected in pairs on both sides of the deformable part (24) to form a structure. Of course, this is not limited thereto, and the deformable part (24) may additionally be formed in the outer direction of the non-deformable parts (23). Also, in the drawings, the non-deformable part (23) and the deformable part (24) are illustrated as having the same area, but this is not limited thereto and they may be formed with different areas.

[0089] In this embodiment, the non-deformable part (23) has a first stiffness and a first thermal diffusivity, and the deformable part (24) has a second stiffness lower than the first stiffness and a second thermal diffusivity lower than the first thermal diffusivity. That is, the deformable part (24) has lower stiffness and lower thermal diffusivity than the non-deformable part (23).

[0090] In particular, in the present embodiment, the deformed portion (24) is configured to include a first layer (21), and the non-deformed portion (23) is configured by additionally stacking a second layer (22) on the first layer (21). Accordingly, the non-deformed portion (23) may be formed with a thicker thickness than the deformed portion (24). Meanwhile, the stacking method in which the non-deformed portion (230) is additionally stacked on the deformed portion (24) is not limited.

[0091] That is, the deformed portion (24) may be composed solely of a first layer (21), which is a material having a second stiffness and a second thermal diffusivity, having relatively low stiffness and a relatively low thermal diffusivity. On the other hand, the non-deformed portion (24) is configured by additionally laminating a second layer (22), which is a different material having a stiffness and a high thermal diffusivity higher than that of the first layer (21), on the first layer (21).

[0092] At this time, since the first layer (21) constitutes the deformation part (24) as is, it is sufficient to have the same second stiffness and second thermal diffusivity as the deformation part (24). However, since the non-deformation part (24) is formed by stacking the first and second layers (21, 22), the entire structure formed by stacking the first and second layers (21, 22) must have the first stiffness and first thermal diffusivity. Accordingly, the stiffness and thermal diffusivity of the second layer (22) stacked on the first layer (21) cannot necessarily be the same as the first stiffness and first thermal diffusivity.

[0093] However, since the first layer (21) must be combined to form the first rigidity and first thermal diffusivity, the rigidity and thermal diffusivity of the second layer (22) must be a material greater than the second rigidity and second thermal diffusivity.

[0094] At this time, the material included in the first layer (21) may be any one of the materials included in the deformation part (12) in FIG. 1, and the material included in the second layer (22) may also be any one of the materials included in the non-deformation part (11) in FIG. 1. However, the combination of materials of the first layer (21) and the second layer (22) is not limited to a specific material.

[0095] As described above, in the case of the shape-variable structure (20) according to the present embodiment, the deformation part (24) and the non-deformation part (23) include different materials but are formed through a laminated structure, so the process of manufacturing the shape-variable structure (20) can be made relatively easier.

[0096] Furthermore, in the case of the shape-variable structure (20) as in the present embodiment, an element is mounted on the non-deformable part (23), and wiring for driving the element is formed on the deformable part (24), so that it can be manufactured as a device that performs a predetermined operation. That is, by mounting the element on the non-deformable part (23), which is relatively resistant to deformation, the element can maintain a fixed state in a stable structure, and the device can be manufactured as a structure capable of shape-variability overall.

[0097] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 3, the shape-variable structure (30) according to the present embodiment also includes a non-deformable part (31) and a deformable part (32). In this case, in the shape-variable structure (30) according to the present embodiment, the deformable part (32) is formed in the center, and the non-deformable parts (31) are connected in pairs on both sides of the deformable part (32), but the structure is not limited to this.

[0099] In addition, in this embodiment, the non-deformable part (31) has a first stiffness and a first thermal diffusivity, and the deformable part (32) has a second stiffness lower than the first stiffness and a second thermal diffusivity lower than the first thermal diffusivity. That is, the deformable part (24) has lower stiffness and lower thermal diffusivity than the non-deformable part (23).

[0100] In particular, in the present embodiment, the non-deformed portion (31) and the deformed portion (32) may both be formed of the same material. Nevertheless, the deformed portion (24) has lower rigidity and lower thermal diffusivity than the non-deformed portion (23).

[0101] That is, as described, the non-deformed portion (31) is formed with a constant width of the first width (W1), but the deformed portion (32) is formed with a variable second width (W2) between the non-deformed portions (31). At this time, the second width (W2) varies along the extension direction of the deformed portion (32) within a range smaller than the first width (W1). For example, the second width (W2) may continuously decrease in width as it extends from the non-deformed portion (31) on one side, and then continuously increase in width again as it moves toward the non-deformed portion (31) on the other side.

[0102] Thus, at the center of the deformation part (32), it is formed with the narrowest width, and at both ends of the deformation part (32), it can be formed with the same width as the first width (W1).

[0103] As described above, the non-deformed portion (31) is formed with a constant first width (W1), but the deformed portion (32) is formed with a continuously variable second width (W2), so that the deformed portion (32) as a whole has a shape that is constricted in the center.

[0104] In the case of the shape-variable structure (30) according to this embodiment, the deformation part (32) has a structure in which the width is reduced, so it has a structure that is easier to deform, such as a so-called hinge or spring. Accordingly, the deformation part (32) has lower rigidity than the non-deformation part (31) due to its structural characteristics.

[0105] In addition, if the deformation part (32) is formed with a structure having a relatively large surface area, when external thermal stimuli such as radiant heat, convective heat, or conductive heat are provided, the deformation part (32) performs heat transfer more effectively compared to the non-deformed part (31), so the so-called heat diffusivity becomes lower than that of the non-deformed part (31). Therefore, the degree of deformation in response to such external thermal stimuli is high. At this time, in order to form a large surface area of ​​the deformation part (32), it is sufficient to form the area occupied by the deformation part (32) to be relatively larger than that of the non-deformed part (31).

[0106] Furthermore, the deformed part (32) has a structure in which the width is reduced, and structurally, it has a structure with a greater change than the non-deformed part (31). That is, in the case of a structure with such a large shape change, for example, when internal thermal stimulation such as Joule heating is applied, the resistance increases relatively, and thus the temperature variation or thermal deformation caused by Joule heating becomes high. That is, due to the shape characteristics as shown in FIG. 3, the deformed part (32) naturally has a relatively low thermal diffusivity compared to the non-deformed part (31), and thus performs a relatively high deformation in response to internal thermal stimulation.

[0107] As described above, in the case of the shape-variable structure (30) according to the present embodiment, the non-deformable part (31) is configured to have a constant first width (W1), and the deformable part (32) is configured to have a variable second width (W2). As a result, the deformable part (32) has relatively low rigidity and relatively low thermal diffusivity to thermal stimulation, thereby enabling relatively high deformation and recovery to the original state. Accordingly, shape variation is performed in response to physical stimulation as well as thermal stimulation in the area where the deformable part (32) is formed.

[0108] Furthermore, in this embodiment as well, the non-deformable part (31) and the deformable part (32) may be composed of different materials as described with reference to FIG. 1, thereby further improving the degree of shape change in response to physical and thermal stimuli. Additionally, as previously explained, an element may be mounted on the non-deformable part (31), and wiring for driving the element may be formed on the deformable part (32).

[0109] FIG. 4 is a plan view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0110] The shape-variable structure (40) according to the present embodiment is substantially identical to the shape-variable structure (10) described with reference to FIG. 1, except that two or more deformable and non-deformable parts are arranged alternately, so redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 4, in the case of the shape-variable structure (40) according to the present embodiment, the non-deformable part (41) and the deformable part (42) are arranged alternately in a row, with two or more of them, as shown in the figure. Thus, the shape-variable structure (40) has a structure that extends to a predetermined length overall.

[0112] At this time, the number of the alternating non-deformed parts (41) and the deformed parts (42) is sufficient if each has at least two, and the number is not limited. Accordingly, the number of the non-deformed parts (41) and the deformed parts (42) can be varied by taking into account the extended length of the shape-variable structure (40).

[0113] Furthermore, although the drawing illustrates that the non-deformed part (41) and the deformed part (42) are formed alternately one by one, a pattern in which two non-deformed parts (41) and one deformed part (42) are repeated is possible, a pattern in which one non-deformed part (41) and two deformed parts (42) are repeated is possible, and a pattern in which two non-deformed parts (41) and two deformed parts (42) are repeated is also possible, so that it can be formed as a pattern in which N non-deformed parts (41) and M deformed parts (42) are repeated (N and M are each natural numbers greater than or equal to 1).

[0114] Through this, the shape-variable structure (40) can be configured by combining the deformed and non-deformed regions in various ways.

[0115] In addition, the materials of the non-deformable part (41) and the deformable part (42) in this embodiment may be configured to be substantially the same as the materials of the non-deformable part (11) and the deformable part (12) in the shape-variable structure (10) described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0116] In contrast, as shown in FIG. 2, the non-deformed part (23) and the deformed part (24) are configured in a stacked structure, and in this embodiment, the non-deformed part (41) may be composed of two layers and the deformed part (42) may be composed of one layer.

[0117] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 3, the width of the deformation part (32) is configured to be variable; similarly, in this embodiment, the deformation part (42) may also form a structure in which the width is variable, thereby configuring the shape-variable structure (40). Additionally, as previously explained, an element may be mounted on the non-deformation part (41), and wiring for driving the element may be formed on the deformation part (42).

[0118] FIG. 5 is a plan view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] The shape-variable structure (50) according to the present embodiment is substantially the same as the shape-variable structure (10) described with reference to FIG. 1, except that the deformed or non-deformed parts are arranged in two dimensions in a predetermined pattern, so redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 5, in the case of the shape-variable structure (50) according to the present embodiment, the non-deformable part (51) is arranged in two dimensions on the deformable part (52) with a predetermined pattern. At this time, the non-deformable part (51) may be arranged, for example, in a matrix array with a plurality of equal spacing between them. Thus, the shape-variable structure (50) has a plate structure having a predetermined area overall.

[0121] At this time, in the shape-variable structure (50), the deformation part (52) is first formed to have a predetermined area as shown in the illustration, and the non-deformation part (51) can be additionally formed on the deformation part (52) with a predetermined pattern. To this end, the deformation part (52) is formed as a plate structure of a predetermined area including the materials previously exemplified, and then the non-deformation part (51) can be formed by patterning on the deformation part (52) to include the materials previously exemplified and through deposition, attachment, or printing. That is, in the case of the shape-variable structure (50) according to the present embodiment, just as the non-deformation part (23) and the deformation part (24) are configured as a stacked structure in FIG. 2, the non-deformation part (51) may be composed of two layers and the deformation part (52) may be composed of one layer.

[0122] In contrast, in the shape-variable structure (50), the non-deformable part (51) may first be formed as a plate structure having a predetermined area, and the deformable part (52) may be additionally formed in a shape that opens the pattern in which the plate deformable part (51) is arranged. To this end, the non-deformable part (51) may be formed as a plate structure having a predetermined area to include the materials exemplified above, and then the deformable part (52) may be formed by patterning on the non-deformable part (51) to include the materials exemplified above, through deposition, attachment, or printing.

[0123] Furthermore, in the shape-variable structure (50), the deformed portion (52) and the non-deformed portion (51) may each be formed by patterning on a substrate of a predetermined plate shape. That is, the deformed portion (52) and the non-deformed portion (51) may each be formed by patterning as shown in the pattern illustrated in FIG. 5 and then depositing, attaching, or printing on a substrate of a predetermined area.

[0124] In this case, for the deformed part (52) or the non-deformed part (51) to be formed with a predetermined pattern, only a patterning process such as deposition, attachment, or printing is applied, and, for example, it may be manufactured through a 3D printing process.

[0125] Meanwhile, although FIG. 5 illustrates that the non-deformed part (51) is formed in a pattern having a predetermined matrix array, the deformed part (52) may be formed in a pattern having a predetermined matrix array.

[0126] Furthermore, it is obvious that on a plate structure of a predetermined area as in FIG. 5, the non-deformed portion (51) and the deformed portion (52) may be formed with various patterns.

[0127] In addition, although not illustrated, just as the width of the deformation part (32) in FIG. 3 is configured to be variable, the deformation part (52) in this embodiment may also form a structure in which the width is variable so that the shape-variable structure (50) is configured.

[0128] Meanwhile, in the case of the shape-variable structure (50) having a two-dimensional planar structure as described above, for example, an element may be mounted on the non-deformable part (51), and wiring for driving the element may be formed on the deformable part (52), thereby manufacturing a device that performs a predetermined operation. That is, by mounting the element on the non-deformable part (51), which is relatively resistant to deformation, the element can maintain a fixed state in a stable structure, and the device can be manufactured as a structure capable of shape-variability overall.

[0129] Furthermore, in the case of the shape-variable structure (50) according to the present embodiment, a separate heating means may be additionally provided so as to be adjacent to the part where the deformation part (52) is formed or in the area where the deformation part (52) is formed in order to apply thermal stimulation, and the shape variation of the shape-variable structure (50) can be induced through the control of the heating means.

[0130] FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0131] The shape-variable structure (60) according to the present embodiment is substantially identical to the shape-variable structure (10) described with reference to FIG. 1, except that the shape-variable structure (60) has a predetermined pattern of a deformed part or a non-deformed part and is formed in three dimensions, so redundant description is omitted.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 6, in the case of the shape-variable structure (60) according to the present embodiment, the non-deformable part (61) is arranged with a predetermined pattern inside the deformable part (62), and thus the shape-variable structure (60) is formed in a three-dimensional block shape.

[0133] At this time, the deformed part (62) has a three-dimensional square block shape as illustrated, and the non-deformed part (61) can be arranged in a three-dimensional matrix array with a certain spacing between them inside the deformed part (62). Thus, the shape-variable structure (60) has a block structure having a predetermined volume overall. In addition, although FIG. 6 illustrates that the shape-variable structure (60) has a three-dimensional square block shape, it is not limited thereto and can have various three-dimensional shapes such as a spherical block, a cylindrical block, a polygonal block, etc.

[0134] In the above shape-variable structure (60), the above shape-variable structure can be manufactured into the above three-dimensional block structure through a process of forming the above-deformed portion (62) and the above-deformed portion (61) at predetermined positions during the process of stacking two-dimensional cross-sections. At this time, the above-deformed portion (62) and the above-deformed portion (61) can be stacked through a process such as, for example, 3D printing, and can be manufactured into the shape-variable structure (50) of the above three-dimensional block structure. Of course, when the above-deformed 3D printing process is performed, the above-deformed portion (62) and the above-deformed portion (61) may be made of materials such as those previously exemplified.

[0135] In contrast, as explained with reference to FIG. 5 above, the non-deformable part (61) and the deformable part (62) may be deposited, attached, or printed by a two-dimensional patterning process to form a two-dimensional structure, and then the two-dimensional structure may be stacked to produce the shape-variable structure (60) of a three-dimensional block structure.

[0136] Additionally, although FIG. 6 illustrates that the non-deformed part (61) is formed inside the deformed part (62) in a pattern having a predetermined three-dimensional matrix array, alternatively, the deformed part (62) may be formed inside the non-deformed part (61) in a pattern having a predetermined three-dimensional matrix array.

[0137] Furthermore, it is obvious that within a three-dimensional block structure such as FIG. 6, the non-deformed part (61) and the deformed part (62) may be formed with various patterns in addition to a constant three-dimensional matrix pattern as exemplified.

[0138] Meanwhile, in the case of the shape-variable structure (60) of the three-dimensional block structure as described above, for example, an element may be mounted or embedded in the non-deformable part (61), and wiring for driving the element may be formed on the deformable part (62) to produce a device that performs a predetermined operation. That is, by providing the element on the non-deformable part (61), which is relatively resistant to deformation, the element can maintain a fixed state in a stable structure, and the device can be produced as a three-dimensional structure capable of shape variation overall.

[0139] Furthermore, in the case of the shape-variable structure (60) according to the present embodiment, a separate heating means may be additionally provided to be adjacent to or connected to the deformation part (62) in particular to apply thermal stimulation, and through the control of the heating means, three-dimensional shape variation of the shape-variable structure (60) can be induced.

[0140] FIGS. 7a to 7c are plan views illustrating shape-variable structures according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0141] First, in the case of the shape-variable structure (70) of FIG. 7a, the overall two-dimensional planar structure is the same as that of the shape-variable structure (50) described with reference to FIG. 5, but the deformation part is formed as an opening, and redundant explanation regarding this is omitted.

[0142] That is, referring to FIG. 7a, in the case of the shape-variable structure (70) according to the present embodiment, a predetermined plate portion (71) is formed in a two-dimensional planar shape of a predetermined area to constitute the non-deformable portion. At this time, the plate portion (71) may be formed to have edges of a predetermined length in the first and second directions (X, Y), and may be square in shape as shown, but is not limited thereto.

[0143] The above plate portion (71) constitutes the above non-deformable portion, and can be made of the material that constitutes the above non-deformable portion as illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0144] Meanwhile, in the case of the present embodiment, in addition to the plate portion (71) constituting a non-deformable portion, no separate material is deposited on the non-deformable portion, and a so-called deformable portion is constituting a predetermined pattern that is opened and formed.

[0145] That is, on the plate portion (71), a first pattern (72) extending in the second direction (Y) is formed in the form of an opening penetrating the plate portion (71). At this time, the first pattern (72) extends to a position adjacent to the two corners along the second direction (Y) of the plate portion (71). Additionally, a first hole (73) having a predetermined radius (R) is formed at both ends of the first pattern (72) in the second direction (Y).

[0146] Additionally, on the plate portion (71), a second pattern (74) extending in the first direction (X) is formed in the form of an opening penetrating the plate portion (71). At this time, the second pattern (74) begins to extend from both corners along the first direction (X) of the plate portion (71) and extends to form a predetermined spacing (h) with the first pattern (72). Furthermore, a second hole (75) having a predetermined radius (R) is formed at the end of the second pattern (74) that is adjacent to the first pattern (72).

[0147] As described above, first and second patterns (72, 74) are formed on the plate portion (71) in directions perpendicular to each other but are not connected to each other, and according to the formation of these first and second patterns (72, 74), that is, the plate portion (71) is deformed.

[0148] That is, the shape-variable structure (70) generally forms a non-deformable part through the plate part (71), but forms a deformable part by the first and second patterns (72, 74).

[0149] Meanwhile, the first and second patterns (72, 74) formed on the plate portion (71) may be, for example, kirigami patterns. In addition, the amount of deformation according to the first and second patterns (72, 74) can be varied according to the spacing (h) between the first and second patterns (72, 74) and the radius of the second hole (75). Accordingly, by varying the spacing (h) and the second hole (75), the degree of deformation of the shape-variable structure (70) can be varied.

[0150] In contrast, referring to FIG. 7b, the shape-variable structure (80) according to the present embodiment is identical to the shape-variable structure (70) described with reference to FIG. 7a except for the shapes of the patterns, so redundant description is omitted.

[0151] That is, in the shape-variable structure (80) of FIG. 7b, the plate portion (81) is formed in a two-dimensional planar shape of a predetermined area to form the non-deformable portion. At this time, the plate portion (81) may be formed to have edges of a predetermined length in the first and second directions (X, Y), and may be square in shape as illustrated, but is not limited thereto.

[0152] On the plate portion (81), a first vertical pattern (82) extending in the second direction (Y) with both ends extending in the first direction (X), a second vertical pattern (83) formed as a pair in the second direction (Y) adjacent to both sides of the first vertical pattern (82), a first horizontal pattern (85) extending in the first direction (X) from the second vertical pattern (83), and a second horizontal pattern (86) extending as a pair in the first direction (X) adjacent to both sides of the first horizontal pattern (85) are formed in the form of an opening penetrating the plate portion (71). At this time, the opening extending in the first direction (X) from both ends of the first vertical pattern (82) is extended adjacent to both corners along the second direction (Y) of the plate portion (81). Additionally, both ends of the first direction (X) of the first horizontal pattern (85) extend to both corners along the first direction (X) of the plate portion (81).

[0153] Additionally, a first hole (84) is formed at both ends of the second vertical patterns (83) in the second direction (Y), and a second hole (87) is formed at the end of the second horizontal patterns (86) at a position adjacent to the second vertical patterns (83).

[0154] Thus, the first vertical pattern (82) and the second vertical pattern (83) are spaced apart by a predetermined distance (h) in the first direction (X), and a predetermined distance (h) is also formed between the second hole (87) formed at the end of the second horizontal pattern (86) and the second vertical pattern (83). In addition, the first hole (84) and the second hole (87) have a predetermined radius (R).

[0155] As described above, the shape-variable structure (80) generally forms a non-deformable part through the plate part (81), but forms a deformable part by the patterns (82, 83, 85, 86).

[0156] Meanwhile, the patterns (82, 83, 85, 86) formed on the plate portion (81) may be, for example, patterns in which opening lines are added to a kirigami pattern. In addition, the amount of deformation according to these patterns (82, 83, 85, 86) may vary depending on the spacing (h) between the patterns (82, 83, 85, 83) and the radius of the second hole (87). Accordingly, by varying the spacing (h) and the second hole (87), the degree of deformation of the shape-variable structure (80) can be varied.

[0157] Furthermore, referring to FIG. 7c, the shape-variable structure (90) according to the present embodiment is identical to the shape-variable structure (80) described with reference to FIG. 7b, except that the holes formed at the ends of the patterns are replaced with fillet shapes, so redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0158] That is, in the shape-variable structure (90) of FIG. 7c, the plate portion (91) is formed in a two-dimensional planar shape of a predetermined area to form the non-deformable portion. At this time, the plate portion (91) may be formed to have edges of a predetermined length in the first and second directions (X, Y), and may be square in shape as illustrated, but is not limited thereto.

[0159] On the plate portion (91), a first vertical pattern (92) extending in the second direction (Y) with both ends extending in the first direction (X), a second vertical pattern (93) formed as a pair in the second direction (Y) adjacent to both sides of the first vertical pattern (92), a first horizontal pattern (95) extending in the first direction (X) from the second vertical pattern (93), and a second horizontal pattern (96) extending as a pair in the first direction (X) adjacent to both sides of the first horizontal pattern (95) are formed in the form of an opening penetrating the plate portion (91). At this time, the opening extending in the first direction (X) from both ends of the first vertical pattern (92) is extended adjacent to both corners along the second direction (Y) of the plate portion (91). Additionally, both ends of the first direction (X) of the first horizontal pattern (95) extend to both corners along the first direction (X) of the plate portion (81).

[0160] Additionally, fillet portions (97) that are bent in one direction are formed at both ends of the opening extending in the first direction (X) from the first vertical pattern (92). Furthermore, fillet portions (97) are also formed at both ends of the second vertical patterns (93) in the second direction (Y), and fillet portions (97) are also formed at the ends of the second horizontal patterns (96) at a position adjacent to the second vertical patterns (93). At this time, the fillet portions (97) have a structure that extends for a predetermined length (f) in an arc shape while having a predetermined curvature (R).

[0161] Thus, the first vertical pattern (92) and the second vertical pattern (93) are spaced apart with a predetermined gap (h) in the first direction (X), and a predetermined gap (h) is also formed between the fillet portion (97) formed at the end of the second horizontal pattern (96) and the second vertical pattern (93).

[0162] As described above, the shape-variable structure (90) generally forms a non-deformable part through the plate part (91), but forms a deformable part by the patterns (92, 93, 95, 96).

[0163] Meanwhile, the patterns (92, 93, 95, 96) formed on the plate portion (91) may be, for example, patterns in which opening lines and fillet portions are added to a kirigami pattern. In addition, the amount of deformation according to these patterns (92, 93, 95, 96) can be varied according to the spacing (h) between the patterns (92, 93, 95, 96), the radius (R) of the fillet portion (97), and the length (f) of the fillet portion. Accordingly, by varying the spacing (h) and the fillet portion (97), the degree of deformation of the shape-variable structure (90) can be varied.

[0164] FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0165] The shape-variable structure (100) according to the present embodiment has a structure in which a deformable part is composed of a connecting part (120), and adjacent non-deformable parts (110) are connected to each other through the connecting part (120).

[0166] That is, referring to FIG. 8, in the shape-variable structure (100), the plate portion (110) is formed as a plate structure having a predetermined area and constitutes a so-called non-deformable portion. At this time, the area of ​​the plate portion (110) can be varied in various ways, and the number of plate portions adjacent to each other can also be varied in various ways.

[0167] In addition, in this embodiment, the plate portion (110) may include substantially the same material as the non-deformed portion (11) in FIG. 1.

[0168] The connecting portion (120) connects the corners (111) of adjacent plate portions (110) to each other, and the connecting portion (120) connects the plate portions (110) to each other while having a relatively thin surface area. At this time, the corner (111) is one side corner of the plate portion (110) and is positioned adjacent to the corner of the adjacent plate portion (110). Accordingly, a plurality of plate portions (110) are connected to each other through the connecting portion (120), and the number of connecting portions (120) is formed to be equal to the number of plate portions (110). At this time, the position of the corner where the connecting portion (120) is formed, the number of connecting portions (120), the width of the connecting portion (120), etc., can be designed to be varied in various ways.

[0169] In the shape-variable structure (100) described above, the connecting part (120) connecting the plate parts (110) performs the role of a so-called deformation part. Accordingly, the connecting part (120) may include, for example, a material substantially identical to the deformation part (12) as in FIG. 1. Alternatively, the connecting part (120) may include a material substantially identical to the plate part (110) and may be a part formed with structurally weak rigidity, which may be identical to the deformation part (32) described with reference to FIG. 3. That is, the connecting part (120) may be a hinge or spring structure as previously exemplified.

[0170] Thus, in the shape-variable structure (100) according to the present embodiment, the connecting part (120) can undergo a relatively large deformation compared to the plate part (110), and shape variation can be induced or restoration to the original state can be induced by external physical or thermal stimulation. Through this, the shape-variable structure (100) illustrated in FIG. 8 can be induced to have its shape varied overall or can be restored to the original state.

[0171] In addition, in this embodiment, a separate heating means for applying thermal stimulation adjacent to the connecting part (120), which is the deformation part, may be provided. Through this, the deformation of the connecting part (120) can be controlled to induce shape variation of the shape variable structure (100).

[0172] Furthermore, when the shape-variable structure (100) functions as a device in which an element is mounted and performs a predetermined operation, the element may be mounted on the plate portion (110). Thus, the element can maintain its mounted state more stably on the plate portion, which is relatively less deformed by external physical or thermal stimuli.

[0173] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a shape-variable structure according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0174] The shape-variable structure (200) according to the present embodiment has a structure in which a deformable part is composed of an extension part (220), and the extension part (220) extends from a non-deformable part (210).

[0175] That is, referring to FIG. 9, in the shape-variable structure (200), the plate portion (210) is formed as a plate structure having a predetermined area and constitutes a so-called non-deformable portion. At this time, the area of ​​the plate portion (210) can be varied in various ways, and although the drawing illustrates the provision of only one plate portion, multiple portions may be provided and may be connected to each other by the extension portion (220) described later.

[0176] In addition, in this embodiment, the plate portion (210) may include substantially the same material as the non-deformed portion (11) in FIG. 1.

[0177] The extension portion (220) is extended outwardly for a predetermined length from the corners (211) of the plate portion (210). If the plate portion (210) has a square plate shape as illustrated, the extension portion (220) may extend from each of the four corners (211) of the plate portion (210). Furthermore, as previously described, the ends of the extension portions (220) may be additionally connected to other plate portions. In this case, the position of the corner to which the extension portion (220) is connected, the number of extension portions (220), the width of the extension portion (220), the length of the extension portion (220), etc., may be designed to vary in various ways.

[0178] Furthermore, although not illustrated, the portion where the plate portion (210) and the extension portion (220) are connected to each other may be formed with a structure such as a hinge or a spring, as in the connection portion (120) described with reference to FIG. 8. Thus, additional shape variation may be performed at the portion where the plate portion (210) and the extension portion (220) are connected.

[0179] In the above-described shape-variable structure (200), the extension portion (220) extending from the plate portion (210) serves as a so-called deformation portion. Accordingly, the extension portion (220) may include, for example, substantially the same material as the deformation portion (12) as in FIG. 1.

[0180] In contrast, the extension portion (220) may be a part that is formed with a relatively small width and thus has only structurally weak rigidity, and may be the same as the deformation portion (32) described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0181] Thus, in the shape-variable structure (200) according to the present embodiment, the extension part (220) can undergo a relatively large deformation compared to the plate part (210), and shape variation can be induced or restoration to the original state can be induced by external physical or thermal stimulation. Through this, the shape-variable structure (200) illustrated in FIG. 9 can be induced to have its shape varied overall or can be restored to the original state.

[0182] In addition, in this embodiment, a separate heating means for applying thermal stimulation adjacent to the extension part (220), which is the deformation part, may be provided. Through this, the deformation of the connection part (220) can be controlled to induce shape variation of the shape-variable structure (200).

[0183] Furthermore, when the shape-variable structure (200) functions as a device in which an element is mounted and performs a predetermined operation, the element may be mounted on the plate portion (210). Thus, the element can maintain its mounted state more stably on the plate portion, which is relatively less deformed by external physical or thermal stimuli.

[0184] According to the embodiments of the present invention as described above, by forming a deformation part such that the part deformed by applying a physical stimulus matches the part deformed by applying a thermal stimulus, the efficiency of the deformation and shape restoration of the deformation part, the response speed, and further durability can be further improved.

[0185] At this time, the deformable part and the non-deformable part may be formed to include different materials so that only the deformable part is induced to vary in response to the physical stimulus and the thermal stimulus, or alternatively, the structure of the deformable part may be designed to have relatively low stiffness to induce variation of the deformable part, thereby allowing the shape-variable structure to be manufactured through various structures and designs.

[0186] In addition, the above thermal stimulus can be configured so that the same part can be deformed by various thermal stimuli along with physical stimuli by selecting and forming a material that allows it to be deformed according to various factors of internal as well as external thermal stimuli.

[0187] At this time, the deformation portion where the physical and thermal deformation is performed and the non-deformation portion where the deformation is not performed can be alternately continuous with each other, and may be formed in a partitioned area having a predetermined arrangement pattern on a plate, or may be formed in a partitioned area within a three-dimensional structure, so the shape-variable structure can be configured in various two-dimensional or three-dimensional structures.

[0188] In addition, the shape-variable structure can be manufactured through deposition, attachment, or printing processes via patterning of the deformable part and the non-deformable part, as well as through continuous manufacturing via 3D printing, thereby enabling production through various processes.

[0189] In addition, as the above-mentioned non-deformable part forms a plate shape of a predetermined area and the above-mentioned deformable part is formed as an opening of a predetermined pattern, the shape-variable structure can be manufactured as a variable shape structure in a specific area based on the pattern of the opening.

[0190] In addition, while the non-deformable part forms a plate shape of a predetermined area, the deformable part may be manufactured as a hinge or spring structure connecting adjacent non-deformable parts, thereby having a variable shape structure at the connection part, or the deformable part may be formed as a structure extending from the non-deformable part, thereby having the extension part manufactured as a variable shape structure. Through this, it is possible to manufacture a shape-variable structure of a more diverse structure in which the part that changes due to physical and thermal stimuli is the same.

[0191] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.

[0192]

[0193]

Claims

1. A non-deformable part having a first stiffness and a first thermal diffusivity; and A shape-variable structure comprising a deformable portion formed continuously with the above-mentioned non-deformable portion and having a second stiffness lower than the first stiffness and a second thermal diffusivity lower than the first thermal diffusivity.

2. In Paragraph 1, When a physical stimulus is applied, the deformed part is deformed more significantly than the non-deformed part, and A shape-variable structure characterized in that, when a thermal stimulus is applied, the deformed portion deforms more significantly than the non-deformed portion.

3. In paragraph 2, the thermal stimulation is, It includes any one of internally applied Joule heating, induction heating, microwave heating, ultrasonic heating, and radio frequency heating, or A shape-variable structure characterized by including any one of radiant heat, conductive heat, and convective heat applied from the outside.

4. In Paragraph 3, To implement the above modification regarding radiant heat, The above-mentioned non-deformable part includes a ceramic material, a metal material, or a glass fiber composite material, and The above-mentioned deformation part is a shape-variable structure characterized by including a carbon polymer composite, a ceramic polymer composite, or a ceramic material coated or containing a material with a high infrared absorption rate.

5. In Paragraph 3, To implement the above modification for conductive or convective heat, The above-mentioned non-deformable part comprises a ceramic material, a glass fiber composite material, a carbon fiber composite material, or a high-rigidity polymer material, and The shape-variable structure is characterized by the above-mentioned deformation part comprising a carbon polymer composite, a thermally conductive polymer material, or a liquid metal-based material.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned non-deformable part comprises ceramic, metal, metal oxide, glass fiber composite material, or carbon fiber composite material, and The shape-variable structure is characterized by the above-mentioned deformation part comprising a carbon polymer composite, a ceramic polymer composite, a thermally conductive polymer material, a liquid metal-based material, a polymer, or a foamed material.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above deformation portion includes a first layer having the second stiffness and the second thermal diffusivity, and A shape-variable structure characterized by comprising the above-mentioned non-deformable portion, the above-mentioned first layer, and a second layer laminated to the above-mentioned first layer having a stiffness greater than the second stiffness and a thermal diffusivity greater than the second thermal diffusivity.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned non-deformed part and the above-mentioned deformed part comprise the same material, and A shape-variable structure characterized in that the above-deformed portion is extended and has a reduced width compared to the above-deformed portion.

9. In Paragraph 8, A shape-variable structure characterized in that the non-deformable portions are formed on both sides of the deformable portion, and the deformable portions extend in a shape with a constricted center.

10. In Paragraph 1, A shape-variable structure characterized in that the above-mentioned non-deformable part and the above-mentioned deformable part are alternately continuous.

11. In Paragraph 1, Any one of the above-mentioned non-deformable part and the above-mentioned deformable part is arranged in a predetermined pattern on a plate, and A shape-variable structure characterized in that the other of the above-mentioned non-deformable part and the above-mentioned deformable part is formed in an area where the above-mentioned pattern is not formed.

12. In Paragraph 1, Either one of the above-mentioned non-deformable part and the above-mentioned deformable part has a three-dimensional shape of a predetermined volume, and A shape-variable structure characterized in that the other of the above-mentioned non-deformable part and the above-mentioned deformable part has a volume smaller than the volume of the above-mentioned three-dimensional shape inside the above-mentioned three-dimensional shape and is arranged in a predetermined pattern.

13. In Paragraph 8, The above-mentioned non-deformable portion is formed by depositing, attaching, or printing a material having the above-mentioned first stiffness and the above-mentioned first thermal diffusivity, and The shape-variable structure is characterized by forming the above-mentioned deformation portion by depositing, attaching, or printing a material having the above-mentioned second rigidity and the above-mentioned second thermal diffusivity.

14. In Paragraph 8, A shape-variable structure characterized in that the above-mentioned non-deformable part and the above-mentioned deformable part are continuously formed by a 3D printing process.

15. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned non-deformable part has a plate shape of a predetermined area, and A shape-variable structure characterized in that the above-deformed portion is formed as an opening of a predetermined pattern on the above-deformed portion.

16. In Clause 15, the above-mentioned modified part is, It includes a vertical pattern extending in a first direction, and a horizontal pattern adjacent to the vertical pattern and extending in a second direction, A shape-variable structure characterized in that the ends of the vertical pattern and the horizontal pattern are bent or have holes formed.

17. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned non-deformable part has a plate shape of a predetermined area, and A shape-variable structure characterized in that the above-deformed portions form a connecting portion that connects the above-deformed portions adjacent to each other.

18. In Clause 17, the above-mentioned modified part is, A shape-variable structure characterized by including a hinge or spring structure.

19. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned non-deformable part has a plate shape of a predetermined area, and A shape-variable structure characterized in that the above-deformed portion forms an extension portion that extends a predetermined length from the corner of the above-deformed portion.

20. In Paragraph 1, A shape-variable structure characterized in that a device is mounted in the above-mentioned non-deformable portion, and wiring for driving the device is formed in the above-mentioned deformable portion.

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