Relying on origami techniques, researchers show programmable matter folding into a boat- or plane-shape

ScienceDaily (2010-06-29) -- Researchers have reshaped the landscape of programmable matter by devising self-folding sheets that rely on the ancient art of origami. Called programmable matter by folding, the team demonstrated how a single thin sheet composed of interconnected triangular sections could transform itself into a boat- or plane-shape -- all without the help of skilled fingers.