A recent ASME SmartBrief article highlights the potential of using origami principles in engineering design. The article discusses how origami, of which I am an avid “folder”, is not just for making paper cranes and such, though I’ve made my share of these magnificent birds. I was attracted to the article not only because it talked about origami in an engineering setting, but that the principles of using it in engineering are being taught in a course at Georgia Tech where I received my BS and MS degrees. You know the course is serious as the instructor, Lauren Stewart, is Director of Georgia Tech’s Structural Engineering and Materials Laboratory.
What is also exciting about the course is that it will have a study abroad component. A company in Sweden is using the principles of origami to make a new type of lightweight motorcycle called STILRIDE. The students in the course will go to Stockholm during the 2024 spring break. The lives of the students going will be changed by getting this exciting experience.
So, whether making paper cranes or models of complex machines or structures, origami continues to inspire creativity in those who embrace its principles. – Dr. Tom
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