Origami-inspired deployable structures represent a promising field of research in structural engineering, offering innovative solutions for the design and development of versatile next-generation structural systems. Incorporating bio-inspired design principles from nature provides a unique pathway toward realizing such deployable systems. This paper presents an experimental approach informed by a computational study to investigate the actuation of the Origami Pill Bug structure, a plate-based modular deployable structure that leverages origami mechanics and is morphologically inspired by pill bugs. The research addresses three objectives: formulating an equivalent bar model for thick plate elements to enable computational simulations for form-finding using dynamic relaxation method; developing a multi-objective optimization algorithm to guide optimal sensor placement; and conducting experimental investigations to correlate actuation strategy with resulting strain development. The research effectively established a comprehensive framework for optimizing the actuation strategy of the deployable origami structure through a synergistic approach that combined computational analysis with experimental validation. The equivalent bar model effectively captured the core load transfer mechanisms of the thick origami structure and enabled simulation using the dynamic relaxation method. Multi-objective optimization approach successfully identified key elements for optimal sensor placement, providing valuable data on deformation and strain distribution. The experimental framework facilitated the investigation of various actuation rates, leading to the identification of 2 cm/s as the optimal rate for effective cable actuation of the meter-scale structure. The findings contribute to the development of tailored actuation strategies in origami-inspired deployable structures, paving the way for their broader application in engineering systems.