A review of Kresling origami: Smart design, mechanics, and applications

Origami, an ancient art form, has shown significant potential in various fields, yet faces challenges such as material strength, precision control, and practical adaptability. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the research progress and challenges of origami structures, with a particular focus on kresling origami, in geometric design, actuation modes, mechanical behavior, and multiphysics applications. First, it compares representative origami structures in terms of geometric features, mechanical properties, and application scenarios, and evaluates the functions and learning costs of different origami modeling software. Second, it summarizes common actuation methods—including mechanical, pneumatic, magnetic, and smart driving—and analyzes the integration challenges and improvement strategies for different geometric types under each mode. In terms of mechanical behavior, it reviews methods such as theoretical modeling, finite element simulation, and experimental validation, as well as the performance and limitations of origami structures in strength, stiffness, stability, fatigue life, and vibration control. The multiphysics applications cover acoustics, optics, electromagnetics, thermal science, fluid mechanics, flexible electronics, robotics, aerospace, and architecture, highlighting the broad potential of origami in interdisciplinary design. Finally, it suggests that future research focus on material innovation, geometric optimization, smart actuation, and multiphysics-coupled design, leveraging artificial intelligence, high-throughput simulation, and advanced manufacturing to accelerate the transition of origami structures from theory to practice.