Theoretical characterization of a non-rigid-foldable square-twist origami for property programmability

Using non-rigid-foldable origami patterns to design mechanical metamaterials could potentially offer more versatile behaviors than the rigid-foldable ones, but their applications are limited by lack of analytical framework for predicting behavior. Here, we propose a theoretical model characterize square-twist pattern its rigid counterpart. Based on experimentally observed deformation mode square-twist, virtual crease was added in central square turn one. Two possible paths were calculated through kinematic analysis counterpart, and associated energy force derived analytically. model, first time discovered that structure bifurcated follow low-energy path, which validated experiments. Furthermore, properties be programmed geometrical parameters material stiffness creases facets. This work thus paves way development origami-based serving mechanical, thermal, other engineering applications.