This article was automatically translated from the original Spanish version. Read the original in Spanish.
From solar panels for space missions to emergency shelters and medical devices, the application of origami in engineering is redefining the limits of what’s possible, enabling the creation of deployable structures that combine efficiency, functionality, and aesthetics. The ability to turn sheets of paper into three-dimensional shapes that can fold and unfold to adapt to different needs makes it the perfect inspiration for addressing today’s challenges, where we increasingly need structures that are more compact, portable, and in some cases multifunctional. In this post, we’ll explore the applications of origami in fields such as medicine, architecture, aerospace, and robotics.
About origami
Origami, the art of paper folding, has been practiced for centuries, but until a few years ago the designs that could be achieved were limited. Thanks to methods such as circle packing and tree theory, today we can fold virtually any shape we can imagine. With a simple sheet of paper, we can create an infinite variety of three-dimensional shapes, from simple figures like cranes and paper airplanes to complex, realistic sculptures. Beyond being an art form and a hobby, the study of origami through mathematics and science, in addition to advancing the craft itself, has inspired innovations across multiple fields of engineering.
About deployable structures
Deployable structures are those that can significantly change their configuration. Generally, they go from a compact, folded state to a fully deployed and functional state. This concept is applied in the design of structures that require efficiency in terms of space and functionality, allowing them to be easily transported and then deployed as needed.
Origami-inspired deployable structures leverage the geometric and mechanical principles of this art to create solutions across a variety of applications. These structures are not only aesthetically appealing, but also offer practical advantages, especially when they need to be transported and packed efficiently. What started as an art form has evolved to influence the design of structures that are vital in fields ranging from space exploration to robotics and medicine. Let’s look at some of these applications.
Applications of origami across different fields
Aerospace
In the aerospace field, deployable structures are essential for reducing the size of components during launch and maximizing their functionality once in orbit. Examples include solar panels that unfold to capture solar energy, antennas and reflectors that improve communications, solar sails and thermal shields that protect spacecraft from extreme temperatures, and even space habitats that would allow astronauts to live and work on other planetary bodies.
Deployable habitat based on origami. Source: https://unividafup.edu.co/bienestar/desarrollan-habitat-lunar-expandible-basados-en-el-concepto-del-origami/
Architecture and construction
In architecture, origami enables the creation of temporary structures such as bridges and shelters that can be quickly deployed in emergency situations. It is also used in the design of adaptable buildings that can respond to environmental changes. For example, the movable roof or facade of the building shown in the image below reduces solar heat gain — and therefore the need for air conditioning — by adapting to sun exposure and changes in the angle of incidence throughout the year.
Movable facade of the Al Bahar Towers / Aedas. Source: https://www.designboom.com/architecture/aedas-al-bahar-towers/
Robotics
Origami principles are used to design lightweight, articulated robots with great mobility and adaptability. These robots can deploy in tight spaces and carry out complex tasks in difficult environments — for example, they could be used to help save lives during natural disasters.
Medicine
In the medical field, origami has inspired the design of stents and other devices that can be implanted in a compact form and then expanded inside the body to support or unblock veins and arteries. This allows the device to reach the site where it needs to deploy and carry out its function with minimal invasiveness to the body.
Metamaterials
Metamaterials designed with origami principles have mechanical properties that can change in response to different conditions, or that can be engineered to meet specific requirements. These materials make it possible to create devices that can adapt to specific needs.
Simulating origami
Recall that in this project, we aim to understand the mechanical principles that govern origami folding patterns, with a particular focus on their kinematics and behavior under different conditions. Our goal is to develop a mathematical model that approximates the behavior of these folding patterns, enabling their simulation and optimization for various applications. Learn more about origami patterns, their simulation, and how the combination of science and this art offers solutions in fields as varied as aerospace engineering, medicine, robotics, architecture, and more. Read more articles here.
Cover image: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/edu/learn/project/space-origami-make-your-own-starshade/