| abstract |
Disclosed herein is a reconfigurable tool for use in a mold comprising an active element that comprises an active material, wherein the active element upon activation is operative to permit insertion or removal of the reconfigurable tool from an opening in the mold or a molded part. Disclosed herein too is method for using a reconfigurable tool during a molding operation comprising pouring a molten polymeric resin, metal, ceramic, or a combination comprising a molten polymeric resin, metal or ceramic into a mold that comprises a reconfigurable tool, wherein the reconfigurable tool comprises an active element that is activated upon the application of an external stimulus; and activating the active element. |