Researchers Develop Self-Folding Origami Structures

While the Japanese art of origami has been “a rich source of inspiration” for scientists working to construct such 3D forms, the limitation to simple shapes has held up development of new applications in areas such as biomimetic systems, soft robotics and mechanical meta-materials, especially for structures on small length scales where traditional manufacturing processes fail. Now, however, a team led by polymer scientist Ryan Hayward has developed an approach that could open the door to a new wave of discoveries.