Spatially programmable origami networks enable high-density mechanical computing for autonomous robotics
Mechanical computing enables logic decision-making, allowing direct computational integration into robotics to enhance their autonomy in complex environments. However, current non-universal logic designs hinder reconfigurability in multifunctional mechanical computing systems. Complexity-multifunctionality trade-offs limit mechanical computing materials to single logical operations and low computational density. Here, we address these limitations using origami metamaterials with reconfigurable conductive networks, enabling high-density programmable logic via physical reorganization. By rotating intra-gate elements to modify AND/OR-based Boolean cascades, the design reduces gates by 46.7% compared to standard arrays, executing arithmetic and comparison operations efficiently. Shared tree-like cascades allow multiple functions with minimal redundant gates. The system via Rubik's Cube mechanics supports three-axis reconfiguration of Buffer/NOT elements, achieving reconfigurable full-adder/subtractor and computational densities up to 1728. Integrated robotics demonstrate autonomous right-angled and curved path planning through reprogrammable half-adder/subtractor logic. This framework provides a universal, scalable design-methodology for high-density mechanical computing, with implications for robotics and embodied intelligence.
Authors
- Xinyu Hu (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9051-3904)
- Ting Tan (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7862-1796)
- Zhimiao Yan (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2050-0734)
- Yinghua Chen (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0003-6542-1068)
Institutions
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University (CN)
- Shanghai Ocean University (CN)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Nature Communications
- Published
- 2025-11-20
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-025-64956-0
- Primary Topic
- Advanced Materials and Mechanics
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- National Natural Science Foundation of China