SOFT ROBOTICS APPLIED TO ARCHITECTURE

This paper presents an application of a current research in soft robotics to architectural systems that present new modes of activation. The immediate architectural applications of soft actuated elements are to any surface-wall, ceiling, floor-as well as in the production of smaller autonomous living units. This augmentation of architecturethat is not only actuated robotics but also soft entities-adds a layer of intelligence to earlier experiments in inflatable architecture. Using new polymer compounds, cast with a series of internal chambers, different ranges of motion may be produced by the differential inflation of chambers with air. The resulting movement may be designed to produce a series of degrees of freedom, allowing the passage of human occupants, light, and views.