At MIT's Self-Assembly Lab, researchers from MIT's International Design Center are working with designers from BMW to develop complex–and controllable–inflatable objects that could be utilised in automobiles. Using 3D printing, the process is known as “Liquid Printed Pneumatics", and the product is made from 100% silicone rubber, and remains adaptable after they've been printed. The project was led by MIT Professor of Mechanical Engineering Michael Strano, who has previously worked on self-assembling robotic arms for DARPA and NASA.
At MIT's Self-Assembly Lab, researchers from MIT's International Design Center are working with designers from BMW to develop complex–and controllable–inflatable objects that could be utilised in automobiles. Using 3D printing, the process is known as “Liquid Printed Pneumatics", and the product is made from 100% silicone rubber, and remains adaptable after they've been printed. BMW is looking to use the technology with the advent of autonomous vehicles, creating modular interiors that can adapt to the various requirements of its passengers.