Linear and nonlinear topology optimization of origami structures based on crease pattern and axial rigidity

Origami structures exhibit desirable stowage properties for application in deployable space structures. This work aims to improve a design methodology for origami structures using topology optimization. The objective is to find the optimal configuration of the truss structure based on axial rigidity and the crease pattern that maximizes the displacement at set locations, under prescribed forces and boundary conditions. First, a linear method is used to determine small strains and small rotations to evaluate the performance at the initiation of folding. Subsequently, a nonlinear method is implemented to consider large displacements and large rotations. To carry out the optimization process, constraints on the number of active fold lines and on the axial rigidity distribution are applied. Previous studies on topology optimization of origami structures have focused on folding and bending in their analyses. Here, it is shown that including axial rigidity as a design variable leads to new and promising origami designs.