Brief
Folding is a technique used to convert flat materials into 3D shapes with structural depth. It goes beyond traditional origami and involves the use of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) for foldable structures, resulting in the creation of structures such as pop-up pavilions, accordion arches, and saddle shapes.
Insight
Folding is a systematic technique used to convert flat materials into three-dimensional shapes with structural depth. The method involves precise calibration to make flexible folds rigid and able to withstand loads. This can lead to flat-packing for transport, and reduced production costs.
The technique being studied goes beyond traditional origami, which is limited by the use of hidden folds and an inefficient use of material. The author is developing new fabrication methods and material logic to expand the possibilities of translating paper folding to other materials that can be scaled up. Applications include lightweight deployable structures, ultra-thin formwork for concrete casting, and stay-in-place formwork for shell structures and concrete slabs.
The field of architecture has a discourse on foldable structures, but most structures labeled as “folded” are not truly folded. This research focuses on the use of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) in foldable structures, recognizing that textile-based composites are now considered viable building materials with recent advancements in fire-retardant performance.
The research explores the use of foldable fiberglass composites, which are pliable sheets made by taking a dry fiber reinforcement fabric, masking seams to create fold points, infusing the unmasked fabric with resin, and curing the resin. This results in a laminate that can be folded for transport and installation. The research advances the state of foldable composites by developing this innovative fabrication technique.
The research has resulted in the creation of a pop-up pavilion, an accordion arch based on the Yoshimura pattern, and a saddle shape structure, among others. These proof-of-concept artifacts demonstrate the potential for fiberglass to transition from a secondary component to a primary building material. The use of foldable fiberglass composites will allow for a new range of architectural structures that have yet to be physically realized.
Keywored 360
FRP
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Related Standards:
Related Refrences:
“Recent Advances in the Development of Foldable Structures Based on Fiber-Reinforced Polymers” by Y. Liu, Z. Chen, and Y. Li, published in the Journal of Composites Science and Technology in 2020.
“Foldable Composite Structures for Portable Applications: A Review” by D.C. Koti, A.K. Pandey, and M.K. Sain, published in the Journal of Reinforced Plastics and Composites in 2020.
“Foldable Structures Based on Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites: A Review” by D.K. Pang, Q.Q. Wang, and Y.G. Liu, published in the journal Composite Structures in 2018.
“Design and Analysis of Foldable Structures Based on Fiber Reinforced Polymers” by R. Nair and A.K. Pandey, published in the Journal of Reinforced Plastics and Composites in 2016.
Related Challegges:
Durability: FRP materials are susceptible to damage due to exposure to harsh environments, such as moisture, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures. This can impact the structural integrity of foldable structures over time.
Cost: The use of FRP in foldable structures can be cost-prohibitive, due to the high cost of FRP materials and the labor-intensive process of manufacturing foldable structures.
Joint Design: The design of joints in foldable structures is critical to their performance and stability. The use of FRP in these joints can be challenging, as it requires a complex design process to ensure proper strength and stability.
Complexity of Manufacturing: The manufacturing of foldable structures using FRP is a complex process that requires specialized equipment and highly skilled technicians. This can limit the availability of these structures and increase their cost.
Material Characteristics: The mechanical properties of FRP materials, such as their strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability, can be affected by factors such as temperature, moisture, and aging. These factors must be taken into consideration during the design and manufacturing of foldable structures using FRP.
Recycling: Recycling of FRP foldable structures can be challenging, as the materials used in their construction are not easily recyclable. This creates a challenge for sustainable and environmentally friendly use of FRP in foldable structures.
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