Fabrication of 3D structures using self-assembly at an air-water interface

Abstract

This paper presents a novel self-assembly method for 3D structures with orthogonal or tilted surfaces. The assembly is achieved in a two-step process: part delivery using fluidic self-assembly and part folding to assemble the 3D structure. A magnetic field is employed for both processes. The folding angle is controlled by adjusting the direction of the magnetic field. The parts are fixed with solder reflow once they are assembled. As a proof of concept, millimeter-scale pyramid and rectangular shaped structures with different folding angles are fabricated.