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Reconfigurable Inflatables Through Controlled Surface Crumpling
Yi Yang1, Hye Jun Youn2, Leon Kamp1
1John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Harvard, USA.
Surface crumples in inflatable structures, typically seen as a flaw, can be engineered for new functions. This research explores using these crumples for reconfigurable designs and advanced impact mitigation systems.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Robotics
Background:
- Inflatable structures offer advantages in storage and deployment.
- Their membranes deform via bending, creating surface crumples.
- Previous research focused on crumple mechanics, not functionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the functional potential of surface crumples in inflatable structures.
- Explore applications in reconfigurable designs and impact mitigation.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of membrane deformation during inflation.
- Experimental investigation of crumple behavior.
- Design and testing of functional crumple-based systems.
Main Results:
- Surface crumples can be harnessed for specific functionalities.
- Demonstrated reconfigurable structures across various scales.
- Developed advanced impact-mitigation systems utilizing crumples.
Conclusions:
- Surface crumples are not merely a failure mode but a design resource.
- Harnessing crumples enables novel applications for inflatable structures.
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