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Researchers have shown how to create morphing robotic
mechanisms and shape-shifting sculptures from a single sheet of paper in a
method reminiscent of origami, the Japanese art of paper folding.
The new method, called Kaleidogami, uses computational
algorithms and tools to create precisely folded structures.
“The approach represents new geometric algorithms and
methods to create works of kinetic, or moving, art,” said Karthik Ramani, Purdue University’s
Donald W. Feddersen Professor of Mechanical Engineering. “Scientists and
engineers are often motivated by the beauty of artistic representations while
artists and architectural designers want to harness concepts from science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics. One of our aims is to provide a new
geometry-inspired art form, reconfigurable structures, in the emerging field of
kinetic art.”
Whereas Kaleidogami focuses on artistic representations of
sculptural structures, the researchers also have created a variation called
Kinetogami to create foldable robot-like mechanisms. They envision robots that
can “reconfigure” themselves to suit the terrain, morphing from a
slithering inchworm motion to a six-legged walking gait.
“Our hexapod robotic mechanism can adjust its body
frequently in an adaptive manner to provide a wide range of gaits: lying down,
flipping itself up, rising, squatting, squirming and crawling,” said
mechanical engineering doctoral student Wei Gao. “The folded designs have
an elegant simplicity, while using paper and cardboard-like materials that are
flat is practical because they are very inexpensive and lightweight.”
Findings about the concept are detailed in a research
paper being presented during the Shape Modeling International 2012 conference.
The method also could be used in architecture to design
features including vaulted ceilings, skylights, and retractable roofs.
The researchers have created paper models of the designs
and are looking into using a variety of systems to power the structures.
“This is a proof of concept,” said Raymond
Cipra, a professor of mechanical engineering and a coauthor of the second
research paper.
The robotic and artistic designs are made up of building
blocks called “basic structural units,” or BSUs. Each BSU contains
two segments joined by a creased hinge, and many BSUs are linked together to
create larger structures.
“Whereas traditional origami allows only folding, we
create our structures by folding and also making cuts to a single piece of flat
paper-like materials,” Gao said.
Such robots, toys, and artwork would be ideal for shipping
because they could be transported as a flat sheet and later changed into their
3D structures.
“It also gives rise to a lot of interesting
educational applications,” Gao said. “For example, you can help
students learn 3D geometry, study mechanics and test load carrying capacity and
stiffness while at the same time having fun.”
The researchers plan to explore collaborations with
museums to incorporate kinetic art in exhibits.
