Packaging and de-packaging methods using shape memory polymers

A de-packaging method, comprising:

• providing a part at least partially surrounded by a shape memory polymer in its temporary shape;
• heating the shape memory polymer to a temperature above a switching temperature of the shape memory polymer, thereby reverting the shape memory polymer from the temporary shape into a permanent shape and releasing the part;
• and
• removing the part from the shape memory polymer in the permanent shape.

A packaging method, comprising:

• heating a shape memory polymer in its permanent shape above its switching temperature, the permanent shape corresponding to a predetermined part shape;
• applying a force to the heated shape memory polymer such that it changes from the permanent shape into a temporary shape, the temporary shape being more open than the permanent shape;
• cooling the shape memory polymer in its temporary shape to set the temporary shape;
• placing a part at a predetermined position adjacent to the shape memory polymer in its temporary shape;
• heating the shape memory polymer above its switching temperature, thereby causing the shape memory polymer to spontaneously revert to its permanent shape and surround the part;
• and
• cooling the shape memory polymer to a temperature below the switching temperature to set the shape memory polymer into the permanent shape.