ORIGAMI – Folded Plate Structures, Architecture Hani Buri Phd candidate, architect EPFL Laboratory for timber constructions IBOIS, - Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale Lausanne, EPFL Lausanne, Switzerland Yves Weinand Prof. Dr., engineer EPFL, architect ISA Laboratory for timber constructions IBOIS, - Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale Lausanne, EPFL Lausanne, Switzerland Summary This research proposes new methods to generate rapidly complex folded plate structures that can be built with cross laminated timber panels. Composition and dimensions of these panels as well as the possibility to mill them by Computer Numerically Controlled machines, show a great potential for surface structures. The aim of this research is to reveal this potential in the domain of folded plate structures. An interdisciplinary team investigates architectural, structural and mathematical aspects of folded plate structures built from cross laminated timber panels. The main concern of the architectural part is the form finding process witch is inspired by Origami, the Japanese art of paper folding. Based on a simple technique, Origami gives birth to an astonishing formal richness and variability. Complex geometries are generated in an economic way and this research aims at transposing these principles to construction with timber panels. 1. Introduction Paper folding gives a very direct and intuitive perception and comprehension of geometry and rigidity of folded plate structures. By folding and manipulating paper, hands and eyes elaborate in a dialog a spontaneous understanding for the potential of such forms. Friederich Fröebel used paper folding in kindergartens to teach comprehension of geometry and to foster the sense of aesthetic of his pupils [1]. Later Joseph Albers used similar methods in the preparation class of the Bauhaus to make discover his students the relationship between materiality, geometry and structure [2]. Driven by the same curiosity as Albers and Fröbel and convinced that hands-on experience can lead to scientific conclusion, we use this intuitive approach to discover the universe or folded forms. A series of folded paper models explore the formal and spatial potential of this technique. The goal of this first part of our research was to identify some interesting folding patterns that have potential to be transposed to folded plate structure made with cross laminated timber panels. The second part of the study aims for an analytic understanding of the chosen geometries which results in their generation by computer aided design. Thereby the generation method of the geometry should be close to architectural design processes and use devices as section and plan to define the folded plate structure. The so defined method allows creating rapidly a great number of various forms that can adapt to specific project conditions. Finally the building of models and prototypes transposes the geometries to construction with cross laminated timber plates. In close collaboration with a civil engineer design of connections and assembling methods are experienced. Deformability and rupture of the structure is evaluated by loading tests. Results are the source for the engineering development of the research.