Figure 2. Hylite panels actuated by embedded fluidic Festo Muscles.

placed on different locations around the globe, all exchanging information with each other, with their local environment, their local users, and with their global directives. What would these ProA buildings tell each other, and what sort of information would they exchange?

 

THE MUSCLE PROJECTS

With the Muscle projects, our first prototypes of ProA, we tried to emphasize the real-time actuated spatial response that a building or architectural space might provide. The prototypes were conceived of as

a collection of 3D spatial strips, programmed to respond to their occupants through proximity and touch sensors, processors, and actuating fluidic muscles made by Festo (see Figure 2). Each strip is made out of Hylite panels, a sandwich material with combined properties of aluminum and plastic that is bendable. Two fluidic muscles produce compression power that transforms the otherwise hard-edged strip into soft luxuriant undulations.

In the Muscle project, the cumulative coupling of basic units gives rise to three distinct elements: a responsive floor, a ceiling, and walls joined together in a closed 3D loop. These elements are linked in space in a highly interdependent manner, constantly exchanging information (such as air pressure varia-

By introducing interactivity, we wanted to break the stereotype of the facade of a building as a barrier separating the interior from the external environment.