A Swedish startup is plotting to bring ‘industrial origami’ to outer space

The ancient art of origami could have a future in space. Sweden’s first astronaut and the European Space Agency (ESA) this week unveiled a new project inspired by the paper-folding technique. The program will use technology designed by Stilfold, a Swedish startup that’s pioneered a manufacturing process called “industrial origami.” The technique uses robotic arms to fold sheets of steel over curves to form complex and lightweight shapes. Stilfold previously used the approach to bridge an electric scooter. According to the company, the techniques resulted in 70% fewer components, a 40%  reduction in weight, 20% lower material costs, and 25% lower…

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