Origami Inspired Artificial Muscles: An Analysis of the Programmability of Various Pattern Arrangements

Abstract

Origami inspired artificial muscles have the potential to revolutionize technology in many fields. The ability to create lightweight yet incredibly strong artificial muscles can enhance robotics, aerospace engineering, medical devices, and countless other designs. The one downside to current artificial muscles is the inability to move as efficiently as a human muscle. However, using origami techniques this could be remedied. The aim of this work is to build a functional artificial muscle and experiment with different origami patterns to find what effect geometry has on the functionality of the muscle. Building the muscle allows recommendations to be made about material choice and design process. Then testing the contraction of different origami patterns and materials demonstrates how the muscles function. Results on the design and possible implications are presented and the benefits and shortcomings of each type are discussed.