Here is an introduction about the lab where Tibbits works:

Self-Assembly is a process by which disordered parts build an ordered structure through local interaction. We have demonstrated that this phenomenon is scale-independent and can be utilized for self-constructing and manufacturing systems at nearly every scale. We have also identified the key ingredients for self-assembly as a simple set of responsive building blocks, energy and interactions that can be designed within nearly every material and machining process available.

Self-assembly promises to enable breakthroughs across every applications of biology, material science, software, robotics, manufacturing, transportation, infrastructure, construction, the arts, and even space exploration. The Self-Assembly Lab is working with academic, commercial, nonprofit, and government partners, collaborators, and sponsors to make our self-assembling future a reality.

We hope you enjoy this video and the exciting world of 4D printing.  Can you imagine the potential uses for such a technology?  The possibilies are incredible!  Ha maybe ikea can have a 4D printed catalog so you don’t need to assemble the furniture or hire a taskrabbit, it would just put itself together out of the box!

thanks to the self assembly lab and Skylar Tibbits for the great info

thanks to Keith Kissel for the image