Origami

Origami, the Japanese art of folding flat sheets of paper into three-dimensional figures, is the creative spark behind a new hybrid 3D printing technique. It allows structures to be created without molds, which fold into shape once printed.

On April 23, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) launched several satellites into low-Earth orbit including a 10-cm (3.9-inch) "origami" cube satellite with a reflectarray antenna that unfurls, origami-like, to 25 times its size when folded.

"Ancient Japanese Art Brings Spineless Robot To Life!" Sounds very much like a movie summary. In reality, it describes the recent work of engineers who have created a robot that moves without a single motor, using the principles of origami instead.

In an era of ultra-thin laptops and lightweight technology, the computer mouse remains one of the last bulky accessories. GoFold is an origami-inspired mouse that snaps from a flat sheet into a full-size device in a second.

A new method converts user-selected 3D structures into string-pulled pop-up structures of connected tiles. Ideal for rapid creation and deployment in disaster zones, these pop-ups can also “pop-down” for re-use and easy transport.

Non-recyclable, non-biodegradable, petroleum-based EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam packaging is not eco-friendly stuff. There could soon be a greener and snazzier-looking alternative, however, in the form of origami-folded cardboard.

Tubular structures that fold flat for storage may not take up much room in that form, but they also tend not to be very strong when deployed. That isn't a problem with an experimental new type of tube, that's inspired by both origami and bamboo.

Sometimes a cyclist needs a big, old basket. Sometimes a big, old basket is the last thing they need. The new Allpacka One ensures they're happy in both cases, riding as a flat rack on regular commutes and fast-folding into a 30-L basket on demand.

Multirotor drones may get all the glory, but fully rotating "monocopters" are much more energy-efficient. A new one distinguishes itself further, as it can squeeze through narrow spaces or drop like a falcon by reducing its wingspan while in flight.

After years of releasing one origami kayak after another, Oru has really stepped out of its comfort zone and diversified. This time, the company puts its industrial-origami skills into a newly launched line of portable camping furniture.

Oru Kayak has long offered some of the market's most compact, conveniently portable watercraft. Now the company is expanding the appeal of its lineup by pairing its vessels with an equally compact, portable electric drive system.

Hard-sided pop-up pickup campers and toppers seem to be a trend of the early 2020s. Hardsider is deep at work on the sleekest version yet, pairing a military-grade truck rack with a removable pop-up sleeper roof, LED lighting and Starlink internet.