The Functional Digital Materials project, started in June 2009, explores a new approach to materials and manufacturing where discrete, functional components can be assembled into larger structures with emergent properties. This work bridges the gap between digital design and physical fabrication.
Discrete building blocks
Functional interfaces
Assembly mechanisms
Property programming
Component design
Interface specifications
Assembly methods
Property verification
Novel material system approach
Programmable material properties
Scalable manufacturing method
Digital-physical integration
Advanced manufacturing
Programmable materials
Smart structures
Reconfigurable systems
New paradigm for materials design
Influence on digital fabrication
Advanced manufacturing concepts
Scalable production methods