Shape Memory Filament with Thermoplastic Covering Layer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shape memory molded bodies are limited by using urethane elastomers as both the core and covering material, restricting the use of other materials and facing challenges in welding the filament to the adherend due to inferior welding characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A structural body comprising a filament with a shape memory core and a thermoplastic resin covering layer, where the covering layer is easily welded to the adherend, allowing arbitrary materials to exhibit shape memory characteristics by improving welding characteristics between the filament and the adherend.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a filament with shape memory material is used to form a shaping pattern, then the adherend can exhibit shape memory characteristics, but the welding characteristics between the shape memory material and the adherend are inferior, making it difficult to weld the filament to the adherend
Solution Approach 1:
The filament is constructed as a composite structure with a shape memory material core and a thermoplastic resin covering layer. This composite structure allows the core to provide shape memory functionality while the covering layer provides superior welding characteristics and material compatibility with the adherend, resolving the contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermoplastic resin covering layer acts as an intermediary between the shape memory material core and the adherend. This intermediate layer facilitates welding to the adherend while allowing the core to maintain its shape memory properties, effectively mediating the incompatibility between the two materials.
2Adaptability or versatility
If urethane elastomer is used as the material of the plaster cast, then the shape memory characteristics can be achieved, but other materials cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The filament uses a composite structure where the core is made of shape memory material and the covering layer is made of thermoplastic resin. This allows the adherend to be made of various materials (not limited to urethane elastomer) while maintaining shape memory characteristics and achieving reliable welding through the thermoplastic covering layer.
Solution Approach 2:
The filament design provides multi-functionality: the shape memory core provides shape memory characteristics, the thermoplastic covering layer provides welding capability, and the overall structure enables compatibility with various adherend materials. This universal design allows different adherend materials to be used while maintaining all necessary functions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables arbitrary adherends to demonstrate shape memory properties by enhancing the welding characteristics between the shape memory filament and the adherend, facilitating the formation of shaping patterns that can change shape in response to temperature changes.
Implementation Method 1
the core is formed with a shape memory material
Implementation Method 2
a covering layer and a core are melt extruded from a head so that the covering layer covers the core
Implementation Method 3
the covering layer is welded to the adherend
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A filament can enable an arbitrary material to exhibit shape memory characteristics. A filament includes a linear core; and a covering layer covering the core; wherein: the core is formed with a shape memory material; and the covering layer is formed with a material different from the material of the core.