Knitflatable Architecture Pneumatically Activated Preprogrammed Knitted Textiles

Abstract

Textiles are widely used in architecture for tensile structures, as they are lightweight and can easily span large distances. These structures typically require an external framework for a support. Inflatable structures are self-supporting but are limited to relatively simple forms or require complex and predetermined cut patterns. The development of an adaptive and programmable textile system with an integrative method for pneumatic activation would create a novel self-supporting structure with high degree of design and architectural potential. This creates a highly integrative hybrid system where the generic pneumatic membranes are constrained by the differentiated knitted textile skin that is stretched in several directions under air pressure. This allows for an innovative, lightweight, easily transportable design, where the preprogrammed knitting pattern defines the structure, geometry and formation, activated under pneumatic pressure.