Self-Assembly Lab: Experiments in Programming Matter

As a professional in the Additive Manufacturing space; I was pleased and excited to hear that the MIT Self-Assembly lab had compiled a physical book containing some of their most notable experiments over the last few years.The book is composed of primarily two sections. The first section covers basic concepts of self-assembly and programmable matter. The second covers experiments conducted by the MIT group in conjunction with other organizations including academic institutions, corporations, R&D facilities, and other entities. The global theme of the book probes questions about the role of design in real-world research and engineering settings. This is done through the use of intermixed interviews from leading pioneers in fabrication, materials, architecture, design and research sectors. The format is heavy on photos of projects and light on the actual technical implementation side, which makes it a pleasure to read. Experiments are described on a high level and shown through well documented and professional photos.Overall, this book is a great compilation of some of the earliest experiments in this new field of programmable matter through various techniques like self-assembly and gives insight into what the media has lumped into the category of “4D Printing”. Whether you’re an Artist, Scientist, Researcher, or Engineer you’ll find something of interest in this book.

Preliminary review: have not dipped in yet, but this is a beautiful volume. Solid mid-century... early 1960s aesthetic presenting 2060s technology.