We identify a simple and universal, diffusion-based mechanism to enable a transient morphing effect in structures with parametric surface grooves, which can be realized with a single material and fabricated using low-cost manufacturing methods (e.g., stamping, molding and casting). This mechanism allows us to demonstrate novel approaches that could improve the efficiency of certain food manufacturing processes and facilitate the sustainable packaging of food, for instance, by creating morphing pasta that can be flat-packed, to reduce the air space in the packaging.
Credit: Carnegie Mellon University, Morphing Matter Lab