Origami crawlers: exploring a single origami vertex for complex path navigation

The ancient art of origami, traditionally used to transform simple sheets into intricate objects, also holds potential for diverse engineering applications, such as shape morphing and robotics. In this study, we demonstrate that one of the most basic origami structures (i.e., a rigid, foldable degree-four vertex) can be engineered to create a crawler capable of navigating complex paths using only a single input. Through a combination of experimental studies and modeling, we show that modifying the geometry of a degree four vertex enables sheets to move either in a straight line or turn. Furthermore, we illustrate how leveraging the nonlinearities in folding allows the design of crawlers that can switch between moving straight and turning. Remarkably, these crawling modes can be controlled by adjusting the range of the actuation folding angle. Our study opens avenues for simple machines that can follow intricate trajectories with minimal actuation.

Reprogrammable sequencing for physically intelligent under-actuated robots

Programming physical intelligence into mechanisms holds great promise for machines that can accomplish tasks such as navigation of unstructured environments while utilizing a minimal amount of computational resources and electronic components. In this study, we introduce a novel design approach for physically intelligent under-actuated mechanisms capable of autonomously adjusting their motion in response to environmental interactions. Specifically, multistability is harnessed to sequence the motion of different degrees of freedom in a programmed order. A key aspect of this approach is that these sequences can be passively reprogrammed through mechanical stimuli that arise from interactions with the environment. To showcase our approach, we construct a four degree of freedom robot capable of autonomously navigating mazes and moving away from obstacles. Remarkably, this robot operates without relying on traditional computational architectures and utilizes only a single linear actuator.

MuA-Ori: Multimodal Actuated Origami

Recently, inflatable elements integrated in robotics systems have enabled complex motions as a result of simple inputs. However, these fluidic actuators typically exhibit unimodal deformation upon inflation. Here, we present a new design concept for modular, fluidic actuators that can switch between deformation modes as a response to an input threshold. Our system comprises bistable origami modules in which snapping breaks rotational symmetry, giving access to a bending deformation. By tuning geometry, the modules can be designed to snap at different pressure thresholds, rotate clockwise or counterclockwise when actuated, and bend in different planes. Due to their ability to assume multiple deformation modes as response to a single pressure input we call our system MuA-Ori, or Multimodal Actuated Origami. MuA-Ori provides an ideal platform to design actuators that can switch between different configurations, reach multiple, pre-defined targets in space, and move along complex trajectories.