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Art and engineering intersect in a new design for origami structures that scientists see uses for in everything from shipping packages to exploring outer space.

The researchers call their creation a “zippered tube.” Made of interlocking, zigzagging paper tubes, the design fortifies paper so that it can hold much more weight than would otherwise be possible, they report in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. When not in use, the structure can fold flat for compact storage and shipping.