Research on Functional Performance and Fashion Applications of Kirigami Honeycombs Using Origami Engineering

Origami-engineered garments are still rare worldwide. One prominent example is the foldable clothing by Issey Miyake, developed using our original techniques. Recently, kirigami honeycombs have gained attention as a rich source of metamaterials. Among them, only the method by Diago et al. enables application to 3D structures. This technique became the most downloaded material science paper in Elsevier in April and May 2023. A key advantage of kirigami honeycombs is that the columnar direction of the honeycomb can be aligned perpendicular to the curved surfaces, allowing for both lightweight and high-strength structures. Additionally, the inherent beauty and transformability of the honeycomb structure make it well-suited for aesthetically reproducing curved forms. This study focuses on helmet and backpack prototypes constructed with kirigami honeycombs. Targeting energy absorption (impact resistance), we explore a scalable production method for kirigami-based metamaterials and aim to contribute to the emerging academic field of fashion studies.