Bio-Inspired Textile Structure

A previous collaboration with the Bio-Inspired Textiles research team explored new applications for pleating by tackling the challenge of creating a self-standing textile structure.

The project allowed to understand how a cellular structure previously created by assembling panels using stitch, can be fabricated seamlessly using 3D multilayered weaving, producing a single, integrated textile.

The structure investigated through this research emerges from the interaction of paper yarns into a 3D form in contrast to subtractive and manual processes used in the industry, moving closer towards additive and automated manufacturing. 

The outcomes also suggest an avenue to demonstrate the relevance of pleating in the context of sustainability by prioritising qualities beyond the traditionally known, as it enhances the mechanical properties of two dimensional surfaces. Pleating can be of great value when combined with industrial technologies and novel methodologies and the outcomes suggest a path to demonstrate its relevance.

The Bio-Inspired Textile Structure was created in collaboration with the Textile Lab in Tilburg (The Netherlands) and the kind support of the Cotton Textiles Research Trust.

Images by Michele Panzeri.