MIT's origami metal blocks build strong structures without heavy welding

MIT researchers developed a modular construction system that folds flat metal sheets into interlocking origami blocks assembled by hand. The units need no support columns, cut material use by a third and deliver 3.5 times the stiffness of earlier origami methods.

• Modules are CNC-cut from flat metal and joined with a basic screwdriver
• Material use drops by a third; stiffness rises 3.5 times
• A 23-foot aluminum sculpture was assembled in days by untrained crew
• Target uses: disaster shelters, aerospace parts, building facades