The aim of the OrigaBot project is to develop a brand new class of actuated origami-based structures to create mechanical links between actuators to perform efficient locomotion. We will illustrate the unique potential of these morphing structures by designing novel multi-modal locomotion robots featuring innovative morphing frames. We plan to introduce this new expertise on origami-based design in France by developing aspects that have not been properly covered so far. Embedding actuated bistable structures into an origami-based frame on the scale envisaged here is a completely novel project. The most innovative aspect is the consortium’s ability to develop a functional origami-based multi-modal locomotor robot. The Origabot device will be able to change its span dynamically and perform efficient terrestrial locomotion as well as aerial locomotion when required. The OrigaBot will feature a low mass (about 150 grams with battery), and a total thrust of about 200 grams to provide
Design, modeling, and control of origami-based and origami-inspired robots with multi-modal and reconfigurable behavior. We aim to understand the mechanical performances of non-rigid origami in order to beneficiate the bistability and manage the non-linearity during the configuration changes. sufficient payload to embed sensors like local contactless deflection sensors attached to the structure. The OrigaBot will be endowed with micro-actuators embedded in its structure and small self-propulsive propellers. In this proof-of-concept prototype, a combination of ground and aerial locomotion will be implemented to enable the robot to navigate efficiently in cluttered environments. In response to the increasing need for robust field robots, the OrigaBot project provides a unique opportunity for designing remotely piloted reconfigurable robots for multi-modal locomotion (terrestrial and aerial) taking advantage of origami-based active structures with an innovative actuated structure able to fold up on the spot and control actively the thrust vector orientation.