4DTexture: A Shape-Changing Fabrication Method for 3D Surfaces with Texture

4D printing with a hobbyist FDM printer has enabled a rapid fabrication and self-assembly process for 3D shapes. Researchers have leveraged novel structure design and material techniques to create a wide range of 4D shapes. Meanwhile, 4D printing texture (i.e., shape-changing texture) on objects which could easily augment the haptic sensation, has drawn more attention to this field. In this paper, we introduce 4DTexture, a novel design and fabrication approach that integrates texture design through the 4D printing process. Compared to conventional 3D printing surfaces with texture, which usually requires support structures, 4DTexture can effectively reduce production material, time and the post-process effort after printing. Specifically, 4DTexture prints flat substrates with a customized texture design on its top surfaces, which can easily be triggered and can self-morph to target 3D shapes. Overall, our approach enables the design and fabrication of 3D surfaces with texture and can be leveraged by designers and researchers in the field of personal fabrication.