Multistable bi-modulus Kresling origami with superior foldability and stiffness: An analytical design model

Kresling origami is a non-rigid form of origami whose flexible foldability and precise analytical modeling have been key challenges in its engineering applications. This paper proposes a new explicit analytical design model for truss Kresling origami (TKO) with bi-modulus rods, derived from the Kresling folding principle. The designed TKO retains nearly all the folding characteristics of traditional Kresling origami. Additionally, it introduces intrinsic tristability and easy folding capabilities. The folding energy is remarkably reduced by two to three orders of magnitude, while the high axial stiffness is preserved. The analytical design model is validated through numerical simulations, exhibiting exceptional precision in predicting load-bearing capacity, real-time deformation, folding energy, and multistable behavior across various geometric configurations of TKO with bi-modulus rods. Furthermore, the impact of geometric parameters and the modulus ratio of bi-modulus rods on the mechanical properties of TKO is thoroughly examined to enable structural design in diverse application scenarios. Such developments are poised to accelerate the practical evolution of Kresling origami in engineering and other fields. • A new bi-modulus truss Kresling origami with multi-stability is proposed. • A novel explicit analytical design model for bi-modulus truss Kresling origami is developed. • Customized design of mono-, bi-, and tri-stability is achieved. • Folding energy, real-time strain and multistable behavior can be accurately predicted.