Unleashing snap-power through folded structures

Slender structures are integral components in soft robotics, commonly employed as actuators with applications in various fields, from aerospace engineering to microelectronics and fluidics. These actuators harness the snap mechanism to swiftly release stored bending energy, facilitating rapid transitions between two stable states. Our study delves into the potential for optimizing snap actuation by introducing folds into thin ribbons. Through a combination of experimental investigations and theoretical modeling, we reveal how the presence of a crease significantly impacts the stability of the snapping process and increases energy storage capabilities. Furthermore, it enables a faster transition between the two stable states, surpassing the performance of conventional flat thin sheets. This innovative approach offers promising avenues for developing next-generation fast soft actuators, with enhanced effectiveness through the fold properties.