Study on the compressive behavior of Miura origami column structure

Miura-origami pattern has taken interest of many engineers and mathematicians due to its unique foldability and wide range of engineering applications. However, its mechanical behavior is yet to be fully explored, especially when it is made by additive manufacturing (3D printing) method. In this paper, the compressive behavior of 3D printed column structure using the Miura-origami pattern is investigated. Polylactic Acid (PLA) material was used to make the specimen with various printing parameters, i.e. infill pattern and density. Moreover, six kind of origami patterns with different folding angle and wall thicknesses were tested. Finally, the elastic and plastic deformation behavior under compressive load is examined. The result is useful to develop a finite element model which can be utilized to comprehensively explore the mechanical behavior under complicated loading condition. In addition, this study is expected to give impact on developing an innovative engineering design by the use of Miura-Ori pattern, for example is on designing an energy absorption device such as prosthetic leg and automotive crash box.