FoldTronics: Creating 3D objects with integrated electronics using foldable honeycomb structures

Junichi Yamaoka, Mustafa Doga Dogan, Katarina Bulovic, Kazuya Saito, Yoshihiro Kawahara, Yasuaki Kakehi, Stefanie Mueller

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

30 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

We present FoldTronics, a 2D-cutting based fabrication technique to integrate electronics into 3D folded objects. The key idea is to cut and perforate a 2D sheet to make it foldable into a honeycomb structure using a cutting plotter; before folding the sheet into a 3D structure, users place the electronic components and circuitry onto the sheet. The fabrication process only takes a few minutes enabling users to rapidly prototype functional interactive devices. The resulting objects are lightweight and rigid, thus allowing for weight-sensitive and force-sensitive applications. Finally, due to the nature of the honeycomb structure, the objects can be folded flat along one axis and thus can be efficiently transported in this compact form factor. We describe the structure of the foldable sheet, and present a design tool that enables users to quickly prototype the desired objects. We showcase a range of examples made with our design tool, including objects with integrated sensors and display elements.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCHI 2019 - Proceedings of the 2019 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems
PublisherAssociation for Computing Machinery
ISBN (Electronic)9781450359702
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019 May 2
Externally publishedYes
Event2019 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, CHI 2019 - Glasgow, United Kingdom
Duration: 2019 May 42019 May 9

Publication series

NameConference on Human Factors in Computing Systems - Proceedings

Conference

Conference2019 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems, CHI 2019
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityGlasgow
Period19/5/419/5/9

Keywords

  • 2D folding
  • Electronics
  • Personal fabrication

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Software
  • Human-Computer Interaction
  • Computer Graphics and Computer-Aided Design

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'FoldTronics: Creating 3D objects with integrated electronics using foldable honeycomb structures'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this