Algorithms Create Art, Robots

Purdue University researchers have developed a method for creating precisely folded structures that could be used to create sculptures and robotic mechanisms from paper or lightweight cardboard. Inspired by the Japanese art of origami, the researchers created Kaleidogami, which uses computational algorithms and tools to make artistic, reconfigurable structures. They also created Kinetogami, which generates reconfigurable robot-like mechanisms. Each method uses several modules or basic structural units in combination to make the sculptures and robots. The researchers say that the work is in the proof-of-concept stage and that they are exploring its use in architecture. They are also investigating ways to power the robotic structures their method creates. The scientists are scheduled to present their work at the Shape Modeling International 2012 conference later this week and at the American Society of Mechanical Engineers International Design Engineering Technical Conferences in Chicago in August. (PhysOrg)(Purdue University)