Project details

Programme

This project is the exploratory study of a programmable pneumatised material system. It aims to develop a multi-material system that deforms with pneumatic actuation, and to study various inflation patterns and their effect on resulting deformation.

Programmable Pneumatised Material System explores a new kind of architecture that can adapt to a changing environment and give people emotional support. A prototype was designed consisting of three parts: the membrane, the edge and the crease. Based on the principles of a certain elasticity, a good air tightness and an elegant appearance. Different membranes amde from fabric to polymer materials have been tested. For the edges, materials that could produce bending and significant deformation were sought. For creating creases, stitching, gluing, memory metal and lasers were used. The goal of this prototype was to be able to produce a clear and precise creases with reduced or no air leakage.

Students

Concept

Material System

Our pneumatic system consists of three main parts: the membrane, the edge and the crease.

Test Prototype

Fabric stitching produces detailed crease textures with severe air leakage. Polymer stitching is subject to high resistance. SMA can control both shrinkage and deformation without damaging the membrane.

Prototype System 2.0

Pattern Study

The goal is to deform from 2D patterns into 3D space, producing distinct deformations and shaping space. The circle shape deforms well. Due to the continuous edge, there is no influence of nodes. It also has the most stable deformation.

Assemble Study

Using a circle as the prototype, a mock-up of assembly patterns was simulated. The goal was to be able to roll inwards. The best performing test was chosen to make a physical model.

Final Pattern

A smaller prototype (45cm x 35cm) was built to double check the results of the simulation. Then a full size 1.4m x 1.1m was built.

Making Process

Robotics Control System

The robotic control system includes sensors for collecting vibrations and heartbeats, computers and unity environments, and actuators to control inflation and deflation, and SMA current output.