3D Printed Origami as a Realization of Analysis-driven Morphing Structures

摘要

This article introduces an origami-inspired passive morphing wing concept that is designed, analyzed and fabricated via a single analysis-oriented computational framework ensuring kinematic feasibility and path-uniqueness of a targeted motion. Supposing a notional in-plane wing morphing problem to provide perimeter boundary conditions, a fractal origami pattern that offers large in-plane strain while providing high out-of-plane stiffness is proposed as a supporting mechanism. To enable computational design and analysis of a complex origami pattern, a script-based multidisciplinary design and analysis computational tool, Computational Aircraft Prototype Synthesis (CAPS) is employed. A mathematical description of a fractal origami pattern is formulated to create the highly-symmetric, initial geometry. Then, a nonlinear structural analysis with a truss model is carried out to understand the evolving origami structure that promotes the desired wing shape change. CAPS is then employed to increase the geometric fidelity of the resultant shape by algorithmically converting the reconfigured origami structure from an infinitely-thin plate representation into a composite made of finite-thickness plates and compliant hinges with multiple material assignments. A prototype of the final deformed design is fabricated in its maximally-compressed configuration using a multiple-material additive manufacturing technique, guaranteeing tensile loading over the operating domain, and thereby desired path uniqueness. The design, analysis and fabrication carried out in this work demonstrate the potential of using origami for morphing wings. More generally, the workflow developed for this study is demonstrated as a viable approach for multidisciplinary design and analysis of complex aircraft components.