Modular design of multistable pneumatic structures from a flat pattern of air pouches

• Yiwei Zhan ^[1] ; Tomoya Tendo ^[1] ; Tomohiro Tachi ^[1]
  1. [1] University of Tokyo

     University of Tokyo

     Japón

     
• Localización: Journal of the International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures, ISSN-e 1996-9015, ISSN 1028-365X, Vol. 64, Nº. 4, 2023, págs. 298-305
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • We introduce a novel family of structures that can be inflated from a plane to form a three-dimensional surface using articulated straight pouches with inextensible membranes. Specifically, we propose a modular design using a quadrangle surrounded by four slender pouches, whose inflation causes the surface to form a saddle shape. Then we show a fabrication method using heated nylon films with heat adhesives separated by paper mask patterns inside. We first show a geometric model to explain and predict the out-of-plane deformation and the bi-stability effect inherited in this structure. Through a geometric analysis and an elastic simulation of a pouch, we show that lowering the width-length ratio of pouches reduces the imperfection of shapes. We further propose a method for controlling the height of saddles using concentric patterns. We then extend structural modules into multiple-grid systems and identify the multistable behaviors of the overall structure.