Keywords

origami, precision, mechanism, deployable, optics, maxwell coupling

Abstract

Creating ways to achieve precision positioning in large-motion deployable origami-based systems through improving accuracy and repeatability in the deployed state could enable better performance and new applications, such as optics. Precision positioning of origami-based arrays can be a challenge because of the high number of interconnected panels, large motion between stowed and deployed states, and challenge identifying volumes for precision alignment systems given the thin aspect ratio of the panels. This work introduces and tests a design for a precision coupling suitable for origami-based deployable arrays. The coupling is placed in a Z-fold mechanism and in two degree-four vertex (D4V) mechanisms, which are fundamental components of many origami-based arrays. The alignment and repeatability of these mechanisms are tested using a 3D scanner and the best-fit plane. The Z-fold mechanism has a repeatability of about 0.50° and 0.50 mm, and the D4V mechanisms have a repeatability of about 0.15° and 0.50 mm. These values show potential for certain optical applications and demonstrate that precision couplings can be implemented in origami patterns to increase performance of origami-based arrays.

Original Publication Citation

Roubicek, C., Klocke, P., Wing, D., Magleby, S.P., Howell, L.L., “Design and Testing of a Precision Coupling for Origami-based Arrays,” Mechanism and Machine Theory, Vol 206, paper 105936, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mechmachtheory.2025.105936, 2025.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2025

Publisher

Mechanism and Machine Theory

Language

English

College

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering

Department

Mechanical Engineering

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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