KiriInflate: Fabricating Cross-Scale Inflatables with Large Contraction and Tunable Stretchability for Tangible Interaction
2025
KiriInflate is a rapid, precise, and accessible fabrication method for creating stretchable inflatables with embedded Kirigami structures. These inflatables, fabricated across multiple scales—from fingernail-sized to body-sized—exhibit large, rapid contraction upon inflation (up to 83.5%) and offer tunable stretchability. Our fabrication process leverages the electrostatic adhesion of plastic films and an off-the-shelf laser cutter to cut and fuse the film layers simultaneously, achieving ultra-narrow sealing lines (<0.125 mm). The proposed structural design enables versatile 3D morphing and adjustable stretch behavior upon inflation, while experimental studies provide design guidelines for key geometric parameters. A series of applications, including an eyelid assistive device, a multi-mode game handle, a dynamic elbow brace, and breathable lamps, demonstrate its potential for diverse interactive experiences.
Created by:
Yue Yang, Chuang Chen, Yulu Chen, Ge Gao, Bolan Yao, Lei Ren, Lingyun Sun, Ye Tao, Guanyun Wang
Publication:
UIST 2025 (Paper link)
Project web with instructions and design tool:
https://kiriinflate.github.io
English