Origami Robot Self-folding by Magnetic Induction

Abstract

Inspired by the traditional art of paper folding, origami, autonomous production of 3D structures from 2D sheets can be achieved by the implementation of self-folding techniques. One technique to achieve such transformation is the usage of thermo-responsive smart materials such as self-folding polymeric films, which can be controlled by heat to shrink. Achieving remote self-folding with a practical approach remains a major challenge due to the requirement for specific environments, or having to accompany electronics on origami, which limits the complexity of the origami design. In this paper, we present a wireless method to trigger the thermo-responsive self-folding process of the origami robots through magnetic induction. The proposed method is applicable for all electrically conductive materials and can wirelessly fold a mobile origami robot with a size of 32 × 30 mm2. This method eliminates the need for inclusion of electronics on the origami or usage of complicated trigger methods and environmental conditions, allowing the robot to fold in a wider range of applications such as in constrained spaces.