US researchers use ancient origami to create next-gen stents, jet wings, sneakers

Researchers at Georgia Tech are exploring origami-inspired materials that can transition between rigid and flexible states. This innovative approach could lead to advancements in heart stents, airplane wings, and running shoes. The team is focusing on trapezoid-based folds, which offer more complex deformation possibilities than traditional parallelogram shapes. While still theoretical, this research opens up exciting possibilities for designing adaptable structures with precise control over their behavior under varying pressures, potentially revolutionizing industries like aerospace and medical technology.