Air cell technology

Air cell technology provides a solution to the project, my initial concept was to use inflatable materials to minimise weight, enhance adaptability and create a unique visual. However the use of inflatables was causing an issue with heating and adaptability as many of the inflatable architecture precedents I have looked at could not be altered my concept was to use inflatables as a response to changes in weather and time.

This room is only defined when it is inflated, un-inflated there is no room. However in hot weather or direct light a transparent inflatable room will become inhospitable. During the rare days of good weather in the uk, it would be advantages to have an outdoor seating area as well as good ventilation to create more comfortable atmosphere.  Another problem I envisage with this design would be that the room needs to be sealed in order for it to be inflated this will create a closed atmosphere and discourage inclusiveness, which is a problem.

There fore this type of inflatable would not be suitable for my design needs. Air cell technology as created by Linstrand technologies could be the solution to the problem. It is still an inflatable.

The company can create bespoke inflatables of deferent sizes, the technology uses two skins. The inflatable element will have strong wind resistance and support. Air cell have created many didferent design types.

Such as :

http://www.lindstrandtech.com/bespoke_buildings.html

Magna Science Adventure Centre
Rotherham, UK
Building of the Year 2001 - Stirling Prize of Royal Institute of British Architects
2001 IFAI Outstanding Achievement Award

This inflatable structure was created as part of the Magna adventure centre and features
 "three main inflatable structures all interconnected with air inflated fabric tunnels creating an interesting environment" this use of tunnels and inflatbles is similar to the idea I have for my project.