SAILS: Self-Assembling Intelligent Lighter-Than-Air Structures

November 24th, 2005

film for discovery channel

“The Mascarillons are the first rigid aerobots developed for the [ SAILS ] project. They are flying cubic automata able to develop collective behaviors and assemblages through swarm-intelligence protocols.”

Website Link

Interesting idea for constantly re-arranging interactive architectural space without the usual need for cranes or heavy duty actuators. Whats most interesting is how they are proposing these could be used in the event of an emergency to act as moving protective screens, boats, etc. Flying interactive architecture is apon us?… well not just yet, these designs are up and flying but is still a lot more development ahead.

from Tropolis

Entry Filed under: Devices, Interactive, Kinetic