Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 9, 2025

Finite Element Modeling for the Simulation of the Quasi-Static Compression of Corrugated Tapered Tubes
Published on: January 6, 2023
Large-displacement symmetrical foldable cones
1Advanced Structures Group, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, CB2 1PZ, United Kingdom.
Researchers determined the equilibrium shape of foldable cones (f-cones) using geometry. This nonrigid origami model simplifies calculations while retaining accuracy for moderate displacements.
Area of Science:
- Origami mechanics
- Geometric modeling
- Nonrigid structures
Background:
- Foldable cones (f-cones) are examples of nonrigid origami with curved faces.
- Understanding their equilibrium shape is crucial for applications in deployable structures and robotics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the exact equilibrium shape of a symmetrical f-cone using only geometrical considerations.
- To develop a simplified analytical method for predicting f-cone shapes.
Main Methods:
- Treating the f-cone as intersecting cones with equal fold angles.
- Utilizing the spherical image of the vertex and Gauss's mapping for moderate displacements.
- Deriving closed-form expressions for shape parameters.
Main Results:
- The exact equilibrium shape of a symmetrical f-cone was determined through geometrical analysis.
- A simplified analytical method was developed, reducing computational effort compared to direct linearization.
- Closed-form expressions for shape parameters were obtained, accurately representing variations.
Conclusions:
- Geometrical considerations alone are sufficient to determine the exact equilibrium shape of symmetrical f-cones.
- The proposed analytical method offers a computationally efficient alternative to existing frameworks.
- The findings provide a valuable framework for understanding and designing nonrigid origami structures.
Related Concept Videos
Plastic Deformations of Members with a Single Plane of Symmetry
Chair Conformation of Cyclohexane
The hydrogen atoms linked to carbons are arranged in two different axial and equatorial orientations to achieve this...
Deformations in a Transverse Cross Section
As the material stretches, it expands or contracts in orthogonal directions to the load. This phenomenon varies...
Conformations of Cyclohexane
The chair form is the most stable and derives its name from its resemblance to the “easy chair.” In the chair conformation, two carbon atoms are arranged out-of-plane — one above and one below, minimizing the torsional strain. In the chair form, the bond angle is very close to the ideal...
Deformations in a Symmetric Member in Bending
When the member is segmented into tiny cubic elements, it is observed that the primary stress...
Eccentric Axial Loading in a Plane of Symmetry

