A novel modular origami strategy: Achieving adjustable Poisson’s ratio and tunable distinctive mechanical properties for versatile applications

Abstract

The exigencies of intricate environments necessitate the conception of structures exhibiting extraordinary performance. In response, we devised a foldable modular origami structure by combining Miura-Origami and perforated plates, employing a novel design strategy. We substantiated that this structure manifests adjustable Poisson’s ratios in diverse directions, spanning from negative values to positive, and can even approach infinity. While singular modular origami structures demonstrate inferior performance compared to periodic configurations, our focus has shifted to a more comprehensive analysis. Therefore, we conducted finite element analyses to scrutinize the mechanical behavior of periodically arranged modular origami structures. Remarkably, the same structure can exhibit either analogous or entirely disparate mechanical properties in distinct folding states. The inherent variability in Poisson’s ratio and mechanical performance opens new possibilities for applications in prospective complex environments, such as unfolding thin-walled structures, structural load-bearing, energy absorption, and so forth.