Origami-Inspired Acoustic Metamaterials for Enhanced Sound Absorption

This study investigates the acoustic response of lightweight origami structures within the ۷۰۰–۱۵۰۰ Hz frequency range and evaluates whether they are appropriate for compact and sensitive sound-reduction applications. Four Miura-ori prototypes (paper and cardboard, in ۴-fold and ۸-fold configurations), a paper Hypar model tested from two orientations, and a thin layer of commercial foam were tested using a wooden enclosure. Baseline measurements of the speaker alone and the speaker inside the wooden box were recorded first to serve as reference measurements for the prototypes. The results of this study show that geometric structure plays a more significant role in reducing sound than material stiffness or thickness. Among all tested models, the ۸-fold paper Miura-ori performed the best, while commercial foam showed the worst results. The Hypar, however, behaved differently, generating strong sound-scattering capabilities; this model was also highly orientation-dependent. Overall, the findings demonstrate that thin, foldable, and low-cost origami models can reduce sound despite minimal material use, making them promising candidates for future customizable and industrial noise-control solutions.

Keywords:

Acoustic Metamaterials , Origami-based Sheet , Miura-ori , Hypar , Sound Attenuation