Action origami

Action origami is a special kind of origami that can move or change shape. Unlike regular origami, which stays flat, action origami models can open, close, or flap their wings. One of the most famous examples is the flapping bird, which looks like it is flying when you move it.

These models are made by folding paper in very careful ways. Sometimes, special actions are needed to complete the model. Other action origami, like the paper plane or spinners, don’t move on their own but are still part of this fun group.

Traditionally, some action origami models were made with small cuts in the paper, but most modern ones are made without any cuts at all. Action origami is usually created to entertain and delight, making people wonder how something made of just paper can move and change.

Action toys

Action toys in origami are fun models like birds with flapping wings, butterflies, and frogs that hop. A popular traditional model is the fortune teller. There are also special models called paper poppers that make a noise when you flick them. Some action origami designs are made to go with a story as you build them.

Complex models

Some action origami models are very complex and are made to amaze and astonish. For example, Robert J. Lang created a set of action models called Bassist, Pianist, and Violinist, where each model plays an instrument when pulled in the right way. Another origami artist, Jeremy Shafer, has made amazing action models too, like a Swiss army knife with tools that open out.

These complex models show just how creative and surprising origami can be!

Mathematical models

Flashers are special kinds of origami that can be folded into a small size and then opened quickly to look big. The Miura fold is a well-known pattern used in real products. Some of these models can look like a person when folded up small and like a maze when opened out.

Action origami using smart materials

Scientists and engineers use special materials like electroactive polymers, shape memory polymers, and shape memory alloys to make moving origami shapes. These materials change shape when they get certain signals. This lets origami designs move and do useful things. For example, they can help make solar panels unfold in space or create parts for medical devices.

Notes and references

Main article: Notes and references for action origami

This section has notes and references that support the facts about action origami. It gives details about where the information comes from and offers extra resources for learning more.