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V-Fold Mechanism

Fundamental Structure 01
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Base: 120°
Attachment: 45°

Experiment

120°
Closed (0°)Flat (180°)
45°
Flat (0°)Perpendicular (90°)

Observation: The V-fold maintains its attachment angle relative to the base paper as you open and close the book. Try setting the base to 0° to see the mechanism fully collapse.


Theory

The V-Fold with Base Paper

The V-fold mechanism consists of two panels (colored blue) attached to a base paper (colored white) that opens like a book.

The attachment angle determines how steep the V-fold stands when the base is fully open. A larger attachment angle creates a more dramatic pop-up effect.

As the base paper closes, the V-fold automatically folds flat while maintaining its geometric constraints - this is the essence of mechanism design in paper engineering.

Key Requirements
  • Symmetry of V-fold panels across the spine
  • Consistent attachment angle to base paper
  • Clearance considerations (simplified in this 3D model)
  • Structural stability when base is partially open
Applications
  • Pop-up greeting cards
  • Children's pop-up books
  • Architectural paper models
  • Educational displays and exhibitions