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Development and 3D Printing of Mechanically Tunable Origami Architectures via Fused Deposition Modeling for Structural Engineering Applications

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Dr. Sultan Al-Otaibi ¹ , Dr. Laila Al-Mansour ¹ ,

⁴ Faculty of Engineering King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia

⁴ Department of Computer Science Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The integration of origami-inspired geometry with additive manufacturing has emerged as a transformative approach in advanced structural design, enabling compact deployable systems, energy absorption mechanisms, and mechanically tunable architectures. This study presents a computational design and geometric optimization framework for origami-inspired structures fabricated using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). The research investigates how mathematical origami principles, when coupled with layer-wise material deposition, can be translated into manufacturable and mechanically efficient 3D printed structures. Emphasis is placed on parametric modeling, fold-pattern optimization, and manufacturability constraints inherent in FDM processes. A comparative synthesis of additive manufacturing literature highlights challenges in dimensional accuracy, material anisotropy, and structural reproducibility, while origami-based engineering studies provide theoretical grounding for rigid foldability and deformation control. The methodology integrates computational geometry, finite element-informed design reasoning, and process parameter optimization. Findings indicate that optimized origami-based lattice configurations significantly enhance load distribution, structural compliance, and energy absorption efficiency. However, limitations arise from layer adhesion variability and fold-induced stress concentrations. The study contributes a unified framework bridging origami mathematics and FDM-based fabrication, offering implications for aerospace, biomedical scaffolds, and lightweight structural systems.

Keywords

Origami-inspired structures, Fused Deposition Modeling, Additive manufacturing

References

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Prediction Modeling of Recast Layer Formation and Dimensional Accuracy in Laser Drilling of Thermoplastic Materials Using Statistical Approaches

International Research Journal of Advanced Engineering and Technology

Development and 3D Printing of Mechanically Tunable Origami Architectures via Fused Deposition Modeling for Structural Engineering Applications

Abstract

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References

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