Dimple-Encoded Reprogrammable Origami

TL;DR

This paper introduces a dimple-encoded origami method that transforms bistable dimples into reprogrammable hinges, enabling versatile shape morphing and adaptive structures through a simple, fabrication-friendly approach.

Contribution

It presents a novel dimple-encoded origami platform that allows reprogrammable, multi-shape configurations and morphing capabilities without changing the underlying geometry.

Findings

Single sheet can be reprogrammed into multiple shapes like triangle, square, pentagon.

Validated through experiments and finite element simulations.

Demonstrated applications include impact-resistant shells and deployable cubes.

Abstract

Programmable folding of elastic sheets typically relies on predefined flexible creases or active materials-enabled hinges, which lack intrinsic bistability and limit reprogrammability within a single structure. Here, we present a dimple-encoded origami platform that converts bistable dimple snapping into spatially addressable hinges with prescribed folding angles in a continuous sheet. This interaction-enabled mechanism enables the design of distributed hinge networks through the arrangement and selective inversion of dimples. We establish folding-angle design charts that can be directly used to select local dimple arrangements for target fold angle, forming a practical hinge library without altering the underlying unit geometry. Using this approach, a single dimpled sheet can be reprogrammed to realize multiple distinct configurations, such as triangle, square, and pentagon shapes. We further extend the method to flat-to-3D morphing of polyhedral origami and validate the results through experiments and finite element simulations. As demonstrations, we realize self-supporting cubic shells with enhanced impact resistance and partially deployable cube configurations that remain stable upon opening, highlighting their potential for protective enclosures and deployable architectural structures. The proposed strategy provides a fabrication-friendly route to reprogrammable shape-morphing and adaptive mechanical systems.