Material folding lends itself to a number of applications from very sophisticated (aerospace) to the ordinary such as packaging materials. Kraft paper cores based on the folding techniques could yield a superior product to corrugated cardboard. The chevron pattern could be used in a single layer to absorb shock similar to bubble-wrap. Multi-layer blocks could replace Styrofoam for use in space-filling and shock absorbing. For aerospace using aluminum or composite materials, the folded structures could improve upon the existing honeycomb cores, which are used throughout the airplane in the floors, luggage compartments, and wings. For the transportation industry, aluminum or steel folded tessellations in flat laminated panels could be used for high strength but lightweight truck beds. Folded materials could be specifically designed for automobile floors to give a resilient strength to the frame while also serving to dampen the overall vibrations of the automobile. The lightweight strength and energy absorbing properties are also suited for bumpers, hoods, and crash protecting car doors. On highways, new crash barriers may be possible because of their low cost and high-energy absorption.
Applying, adapting and/or additional development of the proposed folding theory will provide a technical break-through in folding architectures for expandable structures (such as floors, airlocks, and connecting tunnels) for lunar habitat applications. Other space-based applications include arrays, parabolic reflectors, sun and radiation shielding and extendable masts and booms. In addition to inflatable architectures, other strategies (including solar heating/radiation, elastic memory, and mechanical force) can be employed for self-activating and sustaining the unfolding process.
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