Modular origami differs from the classic folding of origami in that several pieces of paper are used in the folding process. Each sheet of paper is added to the module in a classic way, after which the modules are embedded in each other. Connecting with each other, the modules create a friction force that does not allow the structure to crumble. The number of sheets can be unlimited, so you can create complex large models.
Features and limitations
Under modular origami it is meant to fold the model from the same modules, which can be of various types (depending on what will be assembled). This feature modular origami is different from the general multi-sheet origami. In modular origami, it is not necessary that the modules are exactly the same. Creating from the modules complex volumetric products origami, you need glue, as well as other means of connection. Connectors may be required, for example, when creating kusuds. By creating simpler products, for example, flat products, a Sonobe cube, no connecting means are required. Such products are easy to maintain due to the frictional force that is created by the modules during the connection. But if more panels are created from hundreds, or even thousands of modules, it is recommended to use glue or other connecting means.
How the product will work depends on the method of connecting the modules. Products modular origami are three-dimensional, and are flat. Flat modular origami is represented in the form of polygons (they are called still stands), stars, rings, turntables. The three-dimensional modular origami is represented by regular polyhedra, as well as their compositions.
A bit of history
For the first time, the modular origami was mentioned in 1734 in a Japanese book, which contained an engraving with a painted group of traditional origami products and among them was a modular cube. In this book, the cube was presented in two foreshortenings with the description of "tamatebako" ("treasure chest of a magical treasure").
In 1965 another book was published, in which, most likely, the same cube was also depicted, but it was already called the "Cubic box". The six modules that are required to construct this cube were made from the "menco" - traditionally Japanese figure. Each module is one face of the resulting cube. Kusudama is also a traditional form of modular origami.
In the Chinese tradition of folding paper, there are also some products of modular origami, for example, a pagoda or lotus, which is made from a "paper of happiness."
Modular origami has a long history, however, traditional figures mostly consist of one paper sheet. Possibilities of modular origami stood still, until in 1960 this technique was not reopened. Since that time the modular origami began to develop and gained popularity. Today this technique is represented by thousands of works.
Kusudama
Kusudama is the most common product of modular origami. Of itself is a three-dimensional shape of a spherical shape. The figure is collected from several paper colors. Such voluminous spheres, folded from paper, were used in ancient Japan for the treatment of patients. Medicinal herbs were placed inside the kusudam, and the product itself was hung over the bed of the patient. Kusudama, as a rule, consists of regular polyhedra (mainly a cube, icosahedron, dodecahedron). Less commonly, a semi-regular polyhedron is taken as the basis of the kusudama (depends on the complexity and complexity of the creation).
Kusudami consists of several parts, which are glued together or sewn with a thread, and not inserted into each other. At the present time any item of modular origami is called kusudama, which has the shape of a ball.
Sonobe Module
Sonobe is a parallelogram that has two pockets for connecting to other parallelograms.
This system of modular origami was developed by one Japanese. Thanks to such a system, any three-dimensional product can be constructed. The basis of the product will be the Sonobe module, well, or its variety.