Origami, an ancient Japanese paper art, has inspired diverse fields, leading to modern origami-inspired engineering, notably origami robots known for outstanding versatility across scales. Recent advancements in the field of origami robots have ushered in improved performance through the implementation of innovative actuation methods and the incorporation of non-rigid origami. The latter, known for its energy-efficient approach utilizing multi-stabilities, facilitates shape-changing and shape-locking. Nevertheless, non-rigid origami in robotics remains in its formative stages, marked by persistent challenges, notably the intricate task of achieving precise actuation while managing the bistability-reconfiguration trade-off. This article aims to develop a multifunctional mesoscale reconfigurable robot based on the Kresling tower pattern, characterized by advanced mechanical properties such as rapid shape-changing, shape-blocking capabilities, and adjustable structural behavior. To this end, we present the development of a polypropylene (PP)-based origami robot based on the ‘Kresling’ pattern. An in-body actuation mechanism is developed to facilitate the robot’s bistable shape-changing capabilities. Furthermore, we provide a comprehensive mechanical performance assessment of the origami robot.
Shape memory alloys (SMAs) are a group of metallic alloys capable of sustaining large inelastic strains that can be recovered when subjected to a specific process between two distinct phases. Advantages of SMAs - reasonable strain, high energy density, mechanical simplicity, and long work-life render them ideal for actuator applications. Especially, Self-folding origami require high angular motion ranges and low-profile actuators within limited space. Current applications demonstrated the capacity of millimeter-sized torsional SMAs (T-SMAs) for bi-directional rotational motion, but no comprehensive design method for such actuator can be found in the existing literature. To broaden applications of actuator designs, we introduce an inverse design model according to a geometrico- static demand. We couple the geometrical and mechanical properties of torsional SMAs considering assembly and working conditions to construct the design model. We also illustrate a comprehensive mechanical performance characterization for millimeter-sized torsional SMAs and BRM actuators.
Origami robots are becoming very popular due to their excellent morphing abilities and ease of manufacturing. The use of Shape Memory Materials (SMM) for actuation in such structures have not only been proven to make them robust and adaptable to different conditions but also to provide special capabilities. Particularly, Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuators has been used for the self-folding/deployment of smart structures. This study presents a FEA-based thermomechanical model which couples a torsional SMA actuator with a rigid host structure using Shape Memory Polymer (SMP). A specific technique is used for the solution convergence of a complex nonlinear model. After folding the structure to an initial rotation, the influence of SMP stiffness on a Shape Memory Effect (SME) activated rotational motion is investigated. Additionally, the influence of SMP on the global rotational stiffness of such inherently soft structures is studied. The model serves as a starting point for a FEA-based design approach of SMM-equipped singular origami structures and can be topologically optimized for specific applications.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
PERSONAL Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.