Numerical simulation of stable propagation of mechanical signals by cylindrical origami

Abstract

To transmit mechanical signals across long distances, unattenuated transmission lines have been proposed. However, these are difficult to design and manufacture and require external power supplies. Instead, we propose using coupled cylindrical origami units to make up signal lines. Cylindrical origami is easily assembled from a single sheet and can have bistable properties with adjustable energy curves, such as by applying additional springs. This enables continuous mechanical signal transmission down the line. We numerically simulated these systems and confirmed their feasibility for transmitting signals as well as for creating diodes and logic gates.