Yomi Ajani

Yomi Ajani’s process based work on inflatables explores the possibilities of manufacturing inflatable objects and controlling their three-dimensional deformation through geometry and material choices.

Colorful seating elements, interlocking panels for pavilion like structures and decorative elements were created by drawing specifically developed shapes, geometries and patterns onto layers coated, waterproof and airtight fabrics and inflating with expanding, hardening foam. During expansion, the tension of the material, amplified by seals in specific areas, causes the objects to automatically rise and forces them into predefined shapes.

Essentially this approach opens up the possibility of turning two dimensionally drawn shapes into tree-dimensional objects while retaining full control of the shape of the resulting inflatable. This drastically simplifies the traditional labour intensive manufacturing processes of manually welding cutting patterns or heat stamping low complex 2.5-dimensional objects like beach toys and sleeping pads.

PopUpPrints is the the first part of the Inflatable Formworks Project. Through exploring material qualities, testing geometrical possibilities and rethinking the making process, a new range of potential uses of inflatable objects was developed.

While traditionally, three dimensional inflatable objects are hand welded in a process similar to manual sewing, this project is based on the innovation of using the up to 300°C hot nozzle of a 3D printer to seal two layers of elastic TPU foil together in specific patterns.

Developing distinct geometries through an iterative design process opened up the possibilities of using this 2D production process to create objects that emerge into 3D shapes when inflated.

To demonstrate the potential and possible precision of this process, a series of hinges and objects with predefined bends and kinks were created. This innovative manufacturing concept became the foundation for further exploration and was further development throughout the whole Project.