Inflatable
Form Finding Study
2023
Our objective is to create a two-dimensional pattern capable of being inflated into a stable and inhabitable three-dimensional structure. We initially experimented with parallel patterns, but they remained flat when inflated. After a few tests of a series of patterns (squares, diamonds, and curves), we learned that the bigger air pockets shrank more than the smaller ones.
In the final prototypes, we predicted that the combination of various sizes would generate form when inflated. In a circular formation, we created a dome-shaped structure by placing the large shapes on the outside and the smaller ones towards the center. When air is pumped, the force shrinking the large air pockets pushed the center upwards, in turn creating a dome. In the final two prototypes, we found two dome-like forms through a series of two-dimensional pattern explorations.
In the final prototypes, we predicted that the combination of various sizes would generate form when inflated. In a circular formation, we created a dome-shaped structure by placing the large shapes on the outside and the smaller ones towards the center. When air is pumped, the force shrinking the large air pockets pushed the center upwards, in turn creating a dome. In the final two prototypes, we found two dome-like forms through a series of two-dimensional pattern explorations.
