Session: MR-04-01 - Origami-Based Engineering Design

Paper Number: 89996

89996 - Applications of Origami Principles in Deployable Childcare Furniture 

Design projects in childcare settings present unique design challenges because of their function, size, and specific safety concerns. In selecting effective childcare furniture, stowage space, safety, and ease of access for childcare furniture are important considerations. Origami-inspired design can be useful in addressing these issues in an innovative way by introducing flat-foldability and deployability into childcare furniture. Fundamental design considerations for childcare furniture and mechanical design principles for deployable furniture are examined in order to understand how to make safe and functional furniture pieces. Childcare furniture must be very child-safe. This means that origami principles used must not add safety concerns like decreased stability or pinch points. Nonhazardous, durable, and comfortable materials must be used. Extra precaution must be taken when designing folding structures for use in a childcare environment. Mechanical principles for such systems, including folding methods and thickness accommodation, are examined in the context of childcare spaces. Various types of joints are also examined and the M-LET compliant joint is shown as a potential replacement for rigid hinges in folding furniture. Using this understanding, this work presents two simple flat-folding techniques and a compliant joint suitable for a childcare setting and demonstrates these principles through functional "safe space" furniture.

Presenting Author: Daniel Ames Brigham Young University

Presenting Author Biography: Daniel C. Ames is a PhD candidate at Johns Hopkins University in the Civil and Systems Engineering department. He is a masters degree recipient of Brigham Young University where he conducted research under Drs. Spencer Magleby and Larry Howell in the compliant mechanisms research laboratory. Daniel led a research team for origami-inspired design and compliant mechanisms for furniture. He also focused on creating compliant mechanisms from sheet metal using laser forming as well as from wood and plastics. His current research at Hopkins includes improving 3D printing processes and developing novel structures and materials to be fabricated with direct ink writing under Dr. Jochen Mueller.

Authors:

Daniel Ames Brigham Young University
Aliya Mittelman Brigham Young University
Jaxon Jones Brigham Young University
Denise Halverson Brigham Young University
Terri Bateman Brigham Young University
Spencer Magleby Brigham Young University
Larry Howell Brigham Young University