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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Pooya SarehORCiD
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© 2026 Elsevier LtdOrigami-inspired structures have emerged as a powerful paradigm for morphable systems and tessellated metamaterials due to their exceptional geometric programmability. In this work, a curved protective structure is developed based on generalized four-crease origami units. The energy absorption performance is systematically investigated through numerical simulations and experiments. Furthermore, geometric design criteria are established for these curved origami-inspired protective beams. The results reveal that the integration of kirigami techniques further alleviates stress concentration and concurrently enhances energy absorption capacity. The proposed kiri-origami beams convert the lateral bending deformation mode into a coordinated axial folding mode. This nonlinear folding mechanism facilitates a diffuse distribution of plastic deformation, preventing localized failure in the compression zone. During loading, the folding mechanism triggers an auxetic response that densifies the compressed region, thereby maintaining cross-sectional integrity and suppressing local buckling. By eliminating local plastic hinges, the architecture enables broader material participation in energy dissipation. Moreover, the introduction of geometric gradients optimizes material utilization, simultaneously enhancing energy dissipation and minimizing horizontal thrust. It is anticipated that these findings will provide new insights for designing high-performance, beam-like protective structures and offer innovative solutions for complex curved protective scenarios.
Author(s): He R, Chen Y, Ye W, Chen Z, Xie T, Feng J, Sareh P
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: International Journal of Mechanical Sciences
Year: 2026
Volume: 315
Print publication date: 01/04/2026
Online publication date: 10/02/2026
Acceptance date: 09/02/2026
ISSN (print): 0020-7403
ISSN (electronic): 1879-2162
Publisher: Elsevier Ltd
URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijmecsci.2026.111378
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmecsci.2026.111378
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