Project Ara’s inflatable structures as packaging methods
Protoéditions and WINT team up for Project Ara, a design research project that turns inflatable structures into lightweight, adjustable packaging methods inspired by biomimicry. By using air, the teams explore the idea of producing structures that can protect objects and even architectural projects. They begin by looking at tiling in nature, such as patterns found around shells and skins, which often create sturdy surfaces. They’ve already worked with airtight membranes that can be shaped using machines controlled by computers, and the equipment has created patterns in fabric by sealing certain areas with heat or pressure, making them sealed.
When air is added, the structures inflate and change shape, and the method is similar to how some biological systems grow. To realize the inflatable structure of Project Ara, Protoéditions and WINT use a digital welding process that allows the creation of air-ready shapes based on computer-generated patterns. These patterns are created using parametric design, which means changing one part of a design automatically changes the rest, helping make designs that adjust to different shapes and functions. The results give modular packaging methods that are light, flexible, and smart. They use their shape to provide protection, and some possible uses include building temporary walls or safety gear. These structures are not products yet, but they show how future objects could be built.
all images courtesy of Protoéditions and WINT
Reusable lightweight textile that can inflate and deflate
One aim of Project Ara is to use air to create new ways of protecting objects and building spaces. Current packaging and support systems often use hard materials, and once used, they are thrown away. They also do not fit different shapes well, so producing more to fit the objects is often a step taken. Project Ara tries to solve it by using inflatable structures that can change depending on the weight or shape of the item being protected. They inflate or deflate to take on the shape of what they’re protecting, and they’re also reusable, which helps reduce material waste. Digital tools also allow for different sizes for different needs, from small boxes to large structures.
Project Ara employs lightweight textile materials for the inflatable structures of the design teams. Protoéditions and WINT weld these fabrics into patterned shapes and fill them with air. By studying nature and using air as a key material, the project explores how design can become more responsive and efficient. The results could help in many areas, including architecture, transport, safety, and storage. The process also shows how inflatable, air-powered structures can replace old ways of building and protecting. So far, the project is yet to be realized.
the teams explore the idea of producing structures that can protect objects and even architectural projects
the style is inspired by patterns found around shells and skins, which often create sturdy surfaces
when air is added, the structures inflate and change shape
detailed view of the structures
the adjustable packaging is similar to how some biological systems grow
these patterns are created using parametric design
digital tools also allow for different sizes for different needs
the research employs lightweight textile materials
preview of the potential use of the research design
project info:
name: Project Ara
design: Protoéditions and WINT | @protoeditions.xyz, @wintdesignlab
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