Shape Memory Flower

Abstract

Making things move in wearable objects is always a tricky issue since creating movement from electricity usually requires some sort of motor. It is true that you can find very small motors like the ones used as vibrators inside mobile phones, but if you are looking for movement that is noticeable by sight, you probably need something bigger. There are materials, however, that can create movement without taking up too much space. One of those materials is shape memory alloy, which we will use to create a moving fabric flower. Constructing small things with shape memory alloy can be tricky, so this project focuses on how to make use of it on a smaller scale; and once you have understood the basics, you can start developing projects on a larger scale or implement the flower into a garment of your choice.