The Physics of Origami: Can It Be Applied to Playing Cards?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the application of origami physics to playing cards, specifically the stability of an origami piece that lands face up due to its asymmetric crimping at three points. The user notes that while origami can achieve this stability, replicating the same principle in playing cards is challenging due to the need to crimp all four corners asymmetrically. This highlights the complexities involved in manipulating the physical properties of playing cards compared to origami structures.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of origami principles and techniques
  • Basic knowledge of physics, particularly stability and balance
  • Familiarity with card manipulation techniques in magic
  • Experience with asymmetric design concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of stability in asymmetric structures
  • Explore advanced origami techniques for creating stable forms
  • Investigate methods for crimping playing cards effectively
  • Learn about the principles of aerodynamics as they relate to card manipulation
USEFUL FOR

Magicians, origami enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the intersection of physics and card manipulation will benefit from this discussion.

sk8bordgeek
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I came across this piece of origami a while back and was wondering about the physics behind it. When dropped, it always lands face up. http://youtube.com/watch?v=_ZszGCK4R54" Can the same principle be applied to a playing card (I'm a magician).
 
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The origami works best when the three "points" are crimped so as to be asymmetric; then it is very unstable when it is "upside-down", either way it will be totally stable when it is "face-up".

It is more difficult to do this with a playing card, because you have to crip all four corners in an asymmetric way.
 

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