Arcs

Arcs investigates how a knitted membrane can hold two flexible rods in a bent configuration. The yellow textile stretches between the rods, pulling against their tendency to straighten. Together, the tensioned knit and bending rods establish the form’s equilibrium.

The crossing rods frame a curved, four-point surface. Stripes in the knit trace how the membrane stretches between its attachment points, making the relationship between material and structure visible. When the form is pressed or displaced, the rods flex and the textile changes shape with them; their stored tension helps the assembly return toward its resting position.

The study examines rebound as a property of the combined system. Its movement depends on both the rods’ bending stiffness and the knit’s elasticity, allowing a small change in force to produce a visible change in geometry.

Project information

• Project type: Bending-active knitted structure

• Materials: Knitted textile and flexible rods

• Dimensions: 2’ x 3’