Session: MR-04-03 Origami-Based Engineering Design

Paper Number: 69513

Start Time: August 19, 03:20 PM

69513 - Finite Element Analysis and Thick-Panel Clash Behaviour of Steel Fold-Lines 

The structural and mechanical behaviours of most origami-inspired or folded structures is strongly dependent upon the mechanical behaviours of their constituent crease lines. Characterisation of the rotational behaviours of the steel hinges is a therefore a critical step in the analysis of origami-inspired steel structures. This paper will present a numerical modelling approach for simulating the rotational response of digitally-fabricated steel hinges, over a large rotation range from 0 degrees up to 170 degrees. Numerical response predictions are verified against published experimental results, with twelve finite element models created corresponding to the available experimental fold-line configurations: four hinge geometries (Type I or II; two or four straps-per-50 mm) with three plate thicknesses each (1 mm, 2 mm, or 3 mm). Models were seen to give good prediction of the elasto-plastic experimental behaviour, including   linear and non-linear response attributes. Models were also able to predict and give insight into thick-panel clash behaviours that manifested in 2mm and 3mm specimens, and fold-line localised strap mechanics. The developed numerical modelling procedure provides a convenient analysis method for rapid prediction of steel hinge behaviour, and suggests avenues for future work to reduce runtime, for example via simulation of a single strap or contact-less simulation of overkerf hinge types.

 

Presenting Author: Quan Shi University of Queensland

Authors:

Quan Shi University of Queensland
Joseph M. Gattas University of Queensland