The world of 4D printing has taken a significant leap forward with a newly published patent from IBM. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has revealed a groundbreaking method developed by the tech giant, outlining a novel approach to transport microparticles using 4D printed smart materials. This innovative technology has the potential to revolutionize various industries, from drug delivery to micro-manufacturing.
Unlocking the Potential of 4D Printed Smart Materials
IBM's patent (US Patent No. 20250073998), originally filed in August 2023, details a process that leverages the unique properties of 4D printed substances. These materials respond to external stimuli, such as heat, light, magnetic fields, or electricity, enabling them to move and change shape over time. This dynamic behavior allows for precise manipulation and configuration, facilitating the delivery of microparticles (1-100µm in diameter) to targeted locations, even in hard-to-reach areas.
The core of IBM's innovation lies in its integration of a computer program that monitors the movement of these smart materials. Machine learning models play a crucial role in ensuring accuracy, adjusting inputs in real-time to keep the microparticles on their intended path. This AI-driven approach opens up a world of possibilities for applications in drug delivery, cell microcarriers, miniature electronics assembly, and micro-manufacturing.
A Team of Inventive Minds
The patent lists a team of highly experienced inventors, including:
Tushar Agrawal, AI Engineer: With over 180 patent applications, Agrawal brings a wealth of expertise in additive manufacturing.
Sarbajit K. Rakshit, Application Architect: Rakshit's nearly two decades of experience at IBM, including his work on a hologram 3D printing patent, have been instrumental in this development.
Vinod A. Valecha, Former IBM Software Developer: Valecha, now at Cohesity, contributed to IBM's patents for continuous 3D printing and parallelized additive manufacturing.
Su Liu, Master Inventor at IBM: Liu's expertise has been pivotal in the development of this cutting-edge technology.
How IBM's 4D Printing Process Works
The process begins with a user request to transport microparticles to a specific location. The computer program analyzes the request, considering factors like microparticle size, shape, weight, and material composition, as well as the delivery path and environmental conditions.
The program then uses machine learning models to design a 4D printable object optimized for microparticle delivery. Smart materials, such as shape-memory alloys and polymers, are used to create these objects. For smaller microparticles, direct attachment to the 4D object is possible. For larger particles, rigid 3D printed containers are used.
Once triggered, an external stimulus activates the 4D object, causing it to deform and generate movement. The program continuously monitors the object's movement, making real-time adjustments to correct any deviations. Upon reaching the target location, the stimulus is removed, and the microparticles are delivered.
Applications and Potential Impact
IBM's patented process holds immense potential for various high-value applications:
Targeted Drug Delivery: Precise delivery of medicine to specific organs or tissues.
Miniature Electronics Assembly: Assembling electronic components with extreme precision.
Micro-Manufacturing: Moving microparticles in small spaces inaccessible to conventional machines.
4D Printing: Expanding the Horizons of Additive Manufacturing
IBM's innovation builds upon the growing field of 4D printing. Other notable advancements include:
4D Printed Soft Robots: Researchers at Tianjin University developed robots capable of self-assembly and movement.
4D Printed Dental Aligners: Researchers developed dental aligners with memory capabilities, allowing them to adapt to and reposition teeth.
4D Printed Breast Implants: Queen's University Belfast developed personalized implants that can change size and release chemotherapy drugs.
IBM's new patent represents a significant step forward in 4D printing, demonstrating the power of smart materials and AI-driven control. As this technology continues to evolve, it promises to transform numerous industries and unlock new possibilities for microparticle delivery and manipulation.
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