Additive manufacturing techniques for origami inspired 4D printed RF components and modules

Abstract

Additive manufacturing (AM) is a growing method due to the ability to produce with little to no waste, construction of previously impossible designs, and less tooling needed for fabrication. While every manufacturing method has advantages and drawbacks, this paper covers AM techniques for 2D, 3D, and 4D printing, demonstrating RF devices which utilize each dimension and discussing the challenges related to using each technology towards microwave designs. Complex, previously impossible, modules can be fabricated rapidly setting the foundation for the way new designs are prototyped and manufactured.