Abstract
We present a general technique for achieving kinematic single degree of freedom (1DOF) origami-based mechanisms with thick rigid panels using synchronized offset rolling contact elements (SORCEs). We present general design analysis for planar and 3D relative motions between panels and show physically realized examples. The technique overcomes many of the limitations of previous approaches for thick rigidly foldable mechanisms.
Highlights
Origami-inspired, origami-adapted, and origami-applied mechanisms have been used to realize a wide variety of deployable forms, ranging from space-based solar arrays [1] to arterial stents [2] to backpacks [3]
For the offset functions, since we know their values at the endpoints, we can perform an expansion in terms of a set of polynomials that will enforce matching at the endpoints and whose coefficients allow for shape variation in between
The synchronized offset rolling contact elements (SORCEs) concept can be applied to any zero-thickness folding pattern with arbitrary thickness panels
Summary
Origami-inspired, origami-adapted, and origami-applied mechanisms have been used to realize a wide variety of deployable forms, ranging from space-based solar arrays [1] to arterial stents [2] to backpacks [3]. Edmonson et al showed an approach that allows rigidly foldable motion and parallel stacking of panels in which the panels can be arbitrarily independently offset from one another [12], so long as the hinges (though not the panels) remain located at their positions in the zero-thickness model. Beginning from a rigidly foldable zero-thickness model, one can design a mechanism that: accommodates panels of arbitrary thickness begins with a planar unfolded state ends with side-by-side parallel stacked panels in the fully folded state preserves the kinematic motion of the zero-thickness model, including single-DOF motion We accomplish these goals by using rolling contacts, albeit ones designed to incorporate specific offsets between the panels in the fully folded state.
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