a quick model showing the min surface opening within the regular grid pattern. once the high complexity of the model had been achieved, it was possible to compare two different models. the stability has remained, but the production was challenging, the welding of the seams and the way the min surface was treated.

once applied on the curved surface this pattern will be distorted, the cells will vary in size and the openings will influence the structural stability of the structure.

The aim of this thesis is to explore geometric articulation of the inflatable fabric envelopes in relation to the logic of the material system and its performance through the use of parametric and computational modelling in combination with standard sewing and welding techniques.

Parametric pneumatic bubble will structurally and formally challenge the use of the dual membrane principle where the air inflated structure is self-supporting without airlock modules. The inner and the outer membranes are connected through a series of points and minimal surfaces that serve as the openings throughout the surface. The advantage of this rarely employed building system would be that it can be installed quickly under any conditions, still providing for the architectural properties of a habitable space or a clinic.

Grasshopper parametric modelling techniques are used to control the arrangement of the unit on the urban scale, as well as the geometry and structural behaviour of the material on a component level. Rectangular pattern is first applied digitally to a curved surface, and then physical experiments are conducted on textile and polyethylene membrane in order to test and evaluate the parametric model. The size of the minimal surfaces between the membranes varies from the point to the opening according to the character of the hospital space, orientation, exposure to the environment, support and anchorage. Depending on the structural stability and production, the cutting pattern and seam layout will determine the final form of the envelope.

The research will make an attempt in providing new mechanisms for pneumatic structures of complex architectural form, as well as suggesting new potentials for the field of lightweight temporary architecture, in particular disaster relief hospitals.

Key words: pneumatic architecture, parametric modelling, double membrane, minimal surface, porous structure, sewing

vinyl_cushion = vinyl is more rigid comparing to polyethylene, so the deformations are stronger

depending on the technique, the heat and the material, the form will be distorted and out of control. in this case a random shape is imprinted to test the level of deformation

the first inflatable cushion with the opening trial = the shape is unpredictable and unstable

a cushion within a cushion – there is more control over the shape, but the shape is still unstable and unpredictable

dealing with the edges and a single component, not interfering with the surface itself will result in a more controllable shape and possibly more stable structure as a whole

pressure/connection points

a material to start with – polyethylene

different size of pressure/connection points will influence the deformation of the surface, but the structure will remain flat/the connection to the ground is constant throughout