Kinematic Representations of Pop-Up Paper Mechanisms

Pop-up paper mechanisms use techniques similar to the well-studied paper folding techniques of origami. However, pop-ups differ in both the manner of construction and the target uses, warranting further study. This paper outlines the use of planar and spherical kinematics to model commonly used pop-up paper mechanisms. A survey of common joint types is given, including folds, interlocking slots, bends, pivots, sliders, and rotating sliders. Also included is an overview of common one-piece and layered mechanisms, including single-slit, double-slit, V-fold, tent, tube strap, and arch mechanisms. Each mechanism or joint is shown using both a paper representation and either a rigid-body or pseudo-rigid-body representation. In addition, this paper shows that more complex mechanisms may be created by combining simple mechanisms in various ways. The principles presented are applied to the creation of new pop-up joints and mechanisms. The new mechanisms employ both spherical and spatial kinematic chains. Understanding pop-up mechanism kinematics could lead to new applications in deployable structures, packaging, and instruments for minimally invasive surgery.