Design of Hinge-Line Geometry to Facilitate Non-Plastic Folding in Thin Metallic Origami-Inspired Devices

Abstract

Origami is the traditional art of paper folding, which yields objects that can be considered, in engineering terms, as mechanisms with relative motion between panels (paper) constrained by hinges (folds). Non-paper materials are often studied for origamiinspired applications in engineering. The proposed hinge material in this work is bulk metallic glass (BMG), chosen for its low stiffness, wear and corrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and extreme capacity for elastic deformation. Panel-spacing and geometry were examined to provide insight for the design of thin BMG folding membrane hinges to connect larger regions of thicker material (panels). Finite element analysis was performed to study the stress variation, distribution, and displacement along the hinge for several design variations, and several loading profiles are discussed to determine the necessity of modified rounded-edge panels. The results will directly aid in creating origami-inspired designs with membrane hinges, and applicable to the design of devices such as foldable electronics, optical systems, and deployable solar arrays.iv