Without a motor … Paper moves with current.

Carnegie Mellon University Human-Computer Interaction Institute (HCII) has developed Printed Paper Actuator, a technology that allows paper to be driven by current.

Using this technology, the paper will change its appearance, such as being dried or folded on its own. For example, if you reach a certain page, you can make the paper move like an artwork. Conductive resin ink is key point. Capable of generating heat through current and thereby deforming the paper shape. It is a structure that opens the paper as the actuator expands if it is heated while being folded rather than spreading electricity.

Printed paper actuators can be used for interactive arts and entertainment without the need for motors. The paper can be printed with a printer or written with a pen. The researchers plan to develop custom printed filaments in the actuator through high thermal conductivity paper and later apply them to other materials such as plastics and cloth. For more information, please click here .