This model was designed to represent a distinct abstract polyhedron in origami. It is a sub-symmetric stellation of the rhombic dodecahedron (RD) and looks like a blend of the fully octahedral second and third stellation.
In the past, i have come up with modular origami designs of octahedral RD stellations, using only 12 units, each one a 3-dimensional triangular "stick". For this model i reused some of their design elements, due to aforementioned reasons. However, combining them required some extra effort. Especially, a triangle twist is incorporated to generate pleats which serve as pockets later. This way, still only 12 identical units are required, despite the more complex structure.
Additionally, i envisioned that the faces of the polyhedron should not show extra creases/pleats and the tabs/hooks connecting the modules should be invisible, to get the illusion of unsupported triangular sticks forming the polyhedron, nevertheless holding together tightly. Because the model is a highly geometric and rigid compound, the units where designed in a way that major folds have multiple reference points, countering folding inaccuracy and ensuring that all modules fit together in the end. All reference points are conveniently obtained during the folding process, only initial division of the paper into fifths requires other methods to prevent the introduction of unwanted creases. The paper proportions (rectangle) for the modules are 0.95sqrt(2):1, an approximation of 4:3 is suitable. Both sizes could be easily cut from a silver rectangle or a square respectively.
The way the units blend together to form the final model allows for several interesting coloring options, where sticks of the same color are dispersed evenly whithin the model.
In the past, i have come up with modular origami designs of octahedral RD stellations, using only 12 units, each one a 3-dimensional triangular "stick". For this model i reused some of their design elements, due to aforementioned reasons. However, combining them required some extra effort. Especially, a triangle twist is incorporated to generate pleats which serve as pockets later. This way, still only 12 identical units are required, despite the more complex structure.
Additionally, i envisioned that the faces of the polyhedron should not show extra creases/pleats and the tabs/hooks connecting the modules should be invisible, to get the illusion of unsupported triangular sticks forming the polyhedron, nevertheless holding together tightly. Because the model is a highly geometric and rigid compound, the units where designed in a way that major folds have multiple reference points, countering folding inaccuracy and ensuring that all modules fit together in the end. All reference points are conveniently obtained during the folding process, only initial division of the paper into fifths requires other methods to prevent the introduction of unwanted creases. The paper proportions (rectangle) for the modules are 0.95sqrt(2):1, an approximation of 4:3 is suitable. Both sizes could be easily cut from a silver rectangle or a square respectively.
The way the units blend together to form the final model allows for several interesting coloring options, where sticks of the same color are dispersed evenly whithin the model.
