Feasibility of Designing and Fabricating a Soft Robotics-Based Responsive Facade for Daylight Response in Contemporary Iranian Architecture

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Majid Sehati 1
Rouhollah Rahimi 2
Mostafa Gholipour Gashniani 1
1 Department of Architecture, Faculty of Arts and Architecture, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Architecture, Faculty of Arts and Architecture, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
10.48311/bsnt.2026.121855.82957
Abstract
Aims: This study investigates the feasibility of applying soft robotics technology in the design of responsive architectural facades. The research focuses on integrating an origami‑inspired folding geometry with a silicone pneumatic soft actuator to enable a gradual and adaptive opening–closing behavior in response to daylight.
Methods: A mixed methodological approach combining theoretical analysis and experimental investigation was employed. In the theoretical phase, literature on responsive facades, origami structures, and soft robotics was reviewed, leading to the development of a conceptual facade model. In the experimental phase, a laboratory‑scale prototype was developed using three‑dimensional modeling, mold fabrication, and silicone casting to produce the soft robotic actuator. The control system consisted of an Arduino microcontroller, a light sensor, and a compressed air supply. The prototype’s behavior was evaluated under controlled simulated light conditions.
Findings: The integration of origami geometry with a pneumatic soft actuator enabled a gradual and controllable transformation between open and closed states. The prototype responded to variations in light intensity with flexible movement and relatively low energy demand. Observations also indicated that air pressure levels and the characteristics of the silicone membrane influence the range of motion of the facade and its responsiveness to daylight.
Conclusion: The results indicate that combining soft robotic actuators with origami‑based geometries has potential for developing responsive facade systems. Although the findings are limited to a laboratory‑scale prototype and represent a feasibility study, the approach may contribute to the development of lightweight, adaptive, and energy‑efficient systems for daylight control.
Keywords
Responsive Envelope
Highperformance Architecture
Sustainability
Digital Architecture
Daylight
Contemporary Iranian Architecture
Innovative Architectural Technologies
Subjects
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  • Receive Date 06 July 2026
  • Revise Date 11 November 2026
  • Accept Date 13 November 2026