Ha thats nice …I showed this principle during the project days from Transsolar in Stuttgart were I was invited as a guest and held a short presentation about new materials. I like the idea of a moving surface that might influence the properties of the buildings envelope for a more efficient natural ventilation or something like that…

anotherarchitect:

This self folding origami composite material would allow also for some interesting architectural applications that are rather based on the same scale as the actual prototype than scaling it up. It could be interesting probably in facade applications, interactive interior curtains or ventilation systems.

I want one of these … probably our friends at IMAGINE ENVELOPE also would need this cool toy …

“Researchers have created flat sheets of composite material that can fold themselves into toy boats, tents, and even paper airplanes. Based on the ancient art of origami, the sheets are edged by foil actuators — thin, solid-state motors — that contract or expand when they receive an electric current from flexible electronic circuits embedded in the sheets. After they achieve their preprogrammed shape, the sheets are held in place by tiny magnets on the edges of the fold joints. Researchers say the technology could be scaled up to create ultra-portable tripods or even cups that automatically adjust to the size of liquid being poured into them.”

via thedailywhat / slashdot