Bio-Inspired Discs Boost Strength of Flat-Pack Tubes
Imagine atube that can be folded flat for storage but unfolds into a strong, rigid structure. This is the promise of a new type of flat-pack tube inspired by origami and bamboo, developed by researchers at RMIT University in Australia.
Traditional flat-pack tubes, used in everything from pop-up emergency shelters to medical implants, suffer from a lack of strength when unfolded. This is because theytypically have two transverse folds, making them prone to bending under pressure.
The new arched-wrinkle origami tube design overcomes this limitation. Instead of being completely hollow, these tubes contain a series of laser-cut polyethylene discs. These discs are designed with a unique internal structure that gives them bistability – the ability to exist in two stable states.
When the tube is flattened, the discs are also flat. However, applying pressure on either side of thetube’s folds causes the discs to pop out into a curved shape, pushing out the tube’s inner walls. This not only fully expands the tube but also locks it into place, mimicking the internal structure of bamboo.
We’ve essentially created a flat-pack tube that can be deployed and locked intoa strong, rigid structure, said Professor Mike Xie, lead scientist on the project. This is a significant breakthrough for a range of applications, from lightweight structures to deployable solar panels.
In a demonstration, the researchers built a 800 x 520 mm (31.5 x20.5 inches) platform using four of these tubes and a thin sheet. Despite weighing only 1.3 kg (2.9 lbs), the platform was strong enough to support a 75 kg (165 lbs) person, even when suspended like a bridge.
The potential applications of this newtechnology are vast. It could be used to create lightweight and durable structures for buildings, bridges, and even spacecraft. It could also be used to develop new types of deployable medical devices and robotic systems.
This is a prime example of how bio-inspired design can lead to innovative solutions to real-world problems, said Dr. Jeff Lee, a co-author on the study. By looking to nature, we can create materials and structures that are both strong and lightweight, with the potential to revolutionize a wide range of industries.
References:
- New Atlas: Flat-pack tubes get a strength boostfrom origami and bamboo
- RMIT University: Bio-inspired design unlocks new possibilities for flat-pack tubes
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