Reprogrammable, Recyclable Origami Robots Controlled by Magnetic Fields

Origami, the art of paper folding, has emerged as a versatile technique for crafting intricate 3D structures from 2D sheets. Combined with the magnetic actuation, origami paper becomes the building blocks for cost-effective, wirelessly controllable magnetic robots. Herein, a biodegradable magnetic paper with excellent formability and recyclability is developed, facilitating its convenient utilization and disposal. The programable magnetic paper, fabricated with specific magnetization and crease patterns, enables the transformation of 2D sheets into predetermined 3D structures. Leveraging the lightweight and pliable nature of paper-based materials, exceptional control of origami robots with fast response is demonstrated, enabling a wide range of locomotion. Furthermore, the paper-based approach enables the incorporation of electronic functionality into magnetic actuators. By introducing conductive nanoparticles into magnetic paper, an electrically conductive substance is created. Constructing electronic circuits and integrating electronic components onto the paper-based printed circuit board platform enables the repairing of broken circuits inside complicated equipment and optical sensing of surrounding environments in conjunction with locomotive robots. The origami robots have a huge potential to be facilitated in diverse fields with various functions, demonstrating complex locomotion, and integrating chemical, optical, thermal, and mechanical sensors for monitoring environmental conditions in hard-to-reach locations. The array of possibilities holds significant promise for the widespread application of these origami magnetic robots across a diverse spectrum of research fields in soft robotics.