Modeling self-folding of large-scale structures

We study the morphing of large-scale origami-inspired active structures made from strong and lightweight biodegradable polymer composites. Such morphable structures in response to external stimuli could form the basis for sustainable architecture to reduce the cost, waste, and energy consumption of traditional construction processes. While the basic design principles of small-scale self-morphing origami are well understood, it is unclear how these designs need to be adapted, when gravitational loads become relevant. To investigate the role of gravity, we created a two-part computational model to guide the design of self-morphing large-scale origami structures. The first part, based on finite-strain theory, models individual origami folds that curve because of differential swelling/contraction across the multi-layered material. These results form the basis for the coarse-grained discrete bar-hinge model with active torsion and elastic springs, and gravitational loads. Both parts work together to relate local material/structural properties of activated folds to the global structure deployed on the ground.