Deployable structures in nature: Examples, analysis and realization

Abstract

The present study surveys deployable structures found in nature, in view of their potential application to architecture. Four examples have been selected illustrating these structures. Some of them are derived from relevant biological publications, while others are empirically studied and probably considered for the first time for structural analysis. The paper analyzes each example as belonging to a particular morphological category (folded plates, linearly deployed pneumatic structures, ribbed membranes and rigid member structures) which is briefly described. Deployment mechanisms as they exist in the biological organisms are highlighted in a general way. Interpretations are given to the similarities of biological components with their counterparts in the morphological categories. The principle of the mechanism, after being identified, is compared with applications based on existing or proposed deployable structures. Possible directions for further research are given, on the basis of these principles.