MIT Engineers Develop System for Shape-Changing Smart Devices with Integrated Electrical Connections

Researchers at MIT have created 3D-printed mechanical metamaterials that can be reconfigured into various shapes while maintaining electrical connectivity. These "bifur-circuits" allow for the development of interactive smart devices, such as a chair that transforms into a table with storage, and can sense their configuration without external wires. The system also includes a user-friendly design and simulation tool for multi-material 3D printing.