Origami Applications in Engineering
- This thesis explores how origami-inspired modular structures—specifically uniformly thick, load-carrying designs—can be prototyped using accessible 3D printing work flows. We focus on translating geometric folding principles into real materials and hinges suitable for repeated deployment by designing printable panels and connectors, and by validating performance with a bar-and-hinge simulation approach.
Physical prototypes are fabricated and tested for packing ratio, deployment re
peatability, and stiffness-to-mass. Results indicate that thick-panel origami can
be produced with consumer 3D printers while retaining compact storage, rapid deployment, and promising structural behavior. The work outlines a practical path toward portable, reusable, and more sustainable engineering systems that minimize material use, support repair and reuse through modularity, and simplify logistics through high packing ratios.
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