Mathematics
Grade Level
9 & up
Difficulty Level
Hard
Cost
Minimal
Safety Issues
None
Material Availability
All necessary materials are readily available.
Project Time Frame
6-8 weeks.
Objective
This project looks at the geometry of origami.
The goals of this project are:
To outline the practical applications of particular origami folding techniques.
To encourage the development of new uses for these techniques.
Materials and Equipment
Computer with internet access
Color printer
Digital camera
Typical office/craft/hobby supplies (paper, pens & poster-board, glue, etc.)
All materials can be found in your home, at local stores, or on ebay.
Introduction
Origami is an ancient Japanese art form that’s wildly popular among the arts & crafts crowd. But most of us don’t realize that techniques used in standard origami folding have aided the design and development of light aircraft, solar panel arrays, and other technological wonders. Here we look at the elements of origami that are of particular interest to mathematicians and mechanical engineers, among others.
Research Questions
Where & when did origami originate?
How is origami used in disciplines other than art?
How else can origami techniques be applied technologically?
Terms and Concepts to Start Background Research
Origami
Geometry
Experimental Procedure
Research related materials (see bibliography below)
Search and print out images of complex origami creations that interest you.
Make many origami creations of your own.
Develop your own original real-world application for any origami folding technique.
Sketch your ideas.
Invent your own original origami creation, or improve on an existing one.
Write instructions (with diagrams) for your creation.
Carefully explain your methods in a detailed report.
Include origami creations in your science fair display.
Show interesting photos taken throughout the course of the project.