Robert J. Lang facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert J. Lang
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Lang in 2012
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| Born | May 4, 1961 Dayton, Ohio, U.S.
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| Nationality | American |
| Alma mater | California Institute of Technology Stanford University |
| Known for | Mathematics of origami |
| Scientific career | |
| Fields | Optoelectronics, physics, mathematics |
| Institutions | NASA |
Robert James Lang was born on May 4, 1961. He is an American physicist and one of the world's top origami artists. He is famous for his detailed and beautiful designs, especially of insects and animals.
Dr. Lang has deeply studied the mathematics of origami. He uses computers to understand the science behind paper folding. He has also found many ways to use origami ideas to solve real-world engineering problems.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Robert Lang was born in Dayton, Ohio. He grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. He went to the California Institute of Technology to study electrical engineering. There, he met his wife, Diane.
He later earned a master's degree from Stanford University. Then he went back to Caltech for his Ph.D. in applied physics.
From Scientist to Origami Artist
Dr. Lang started working for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 1988. He also worked as a scientist for other companies in San Jose, California. He wrote many papers about semiconductor lasers and optics. He also holds 46 patents for his inventions.
In 2001, Dr. Lang decided to focus on origami full-time. He became a professional origami artist and consultant. Even so, he still uses his science background. He was the editor of a science journal for several years. He also helps companies with laser technology. Today, Dr. Lang lives in Altadena, California.
Robert Lang's Origami Journey
Dr. Lang first learned about origami when he was six years old. His teacher used it to keep him busy in class. By his early teens, he was already creating his own origami designs. Origami became a fun escape for him during his college studies. He met other famous origami artists through a group called OrigamiUSA.
While living in Germany, Dr. Lang and his wife loved the Black Forest cuckoo clocks. He became very well-known in the origami world when he folded a cuckoo clock from paper. It took him three months to design it and six hours to fold it!
In 1990, Dr. Lang started writing computer programs to help with origami. One of his first programs was called Tree Maker. He uses modern technology, like laser cutters, to help make complex folds in his designs.
Origami Math and Real-World Uses
Dr. Lang is a top expert in the mathematics of origami. He has created ways to use computer steps (algorithms) to design origami models. He also proved important rules about how paper can be folded.
He loves finding practical uses for his origami theories. For example, he designed folding patterns for a German airbag company. He also worked with the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Livermore. They are building a huge space telescope with a very thin lens. Dr. Lang helped them figure out how to fold this giant lens so it could fit into a small rocket. The goal is for the lens to unfold perfectly in space without any permanent creases.
Dr. Lang has written eight books and many articles about origami. He even designed the special Google Doodle for Akira Yoshizawa's 101st birthday in 2012.
Awards and Recognition
In 2012, Robert Lang became a fellow of the American Mathematical Society. This is a special honor for mathematicians.
See also
- Napkin folding problem
- Black Forest cuckoo clock
