Interleaved assembly and compressive behavior of non-Euclidean origami structures

The motion paths of non-Euclidean origami units are more easily controllable than those of Euclidean origami units, effectively suppressing bifurcation singularities. This study first introduces an origami tube constructed from two types of non-Euclidean units, preserving the characteristics of single-degree-of-freedom motion and flat-foldability, while exhibiting distinct motion properties compared to traditional origami tubes, enabling a switch between two folding states within the same plane. Leveraging geometric compatibility conditions, the non-Euclidean origami tube can be interleaved to form a staggered basic origami unit cell. The geometric characteristics in three directions, including the range of rigid movements and self-locking conditions, are analyzed in detail. Additionally, by mirroring the basic unit cell and arranging them into an array, an interleaved origami metamaterial is created that offers a more convenient assembly method than conventional interleaved origami tubes, demonstrating unique motion patterns in all three directions. Using the Z-direction compression process as a case study, the research employs theoretical analysis, simulation, and experimental methods to reveal a distinct two-stage gradient characteristic during compression. The first stage is characterized by a rigid motion process dominated by crease rotation, while the second stage exhibits a diamond honeycomb compression mode represented by panel deformation. The findings of this study provide a novel design paradigm for interleaved origami tubes, presenting significant potential for developing mechanically metamaterials with enhanced motion and mechanical properties.