PneumaBloom: Air-Driven Thermoplastic Textile Composites for Sensorial Space Creation

Pneumabloom explores the synthesis of pneumatics, textiles, and 3D printing to create interactive, sensorial spaces inspired by nature. Drawing from phenomena like the mimosa plant’s responsive movements and the structural efficiency of insect wings, the project investigates air-actuated systems to generate dynamic, modular surfaces.

The design incorporates CNC-knitted textiles and thermoplastic composites, fabricated through 3D printing on pre-stressed fabric using a KUKA robotic arm. This process enables the creation of bistable structures with embedded pneumatic channels, allowing modules to respond to environmental stimuli through inflation and deflation. An electronic control system integrates sensors and microcontrollers, enabling the installation to adapt its form and movement in real-time, creating a responsive and immersive experience for visitors.

The research builds on state-of-the-art precedents, including 4D printing techniques and actuated textiles, pushing the boundaries of adaptive architecture. Pneumabloom’s modular approach allows local movements to aggregate into complex, global behaviors, offering a scalable framework for interactive design.

In Collaboration With

Archit Goyal, MS in Digital and Material Technologies
Jutang Gao, Master of Architecture, MS in Digital and Material Technologies