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Pneumatic Habitat Utilizing Inflatable Silicone And Regenerative Systems For Sustainable Living

Authors:
Yi Han Zhang, Junye Zhong
Pneumatic Habitat Utilizing Inflatable Silicone And Regenerative Systems For Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing a pneumatic structure crafted from inflatable silicone, this habitat integrates adaptive design and regenerative life support systems to create a self-sustaining living environment for extended habitation in extreme conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Pneumatic structure allows for dynamic shape adjustment in response to environmental conditions.
02
Inflatable silicone panels provide thermal insulation and structural integrity.
03
Tessellated geometry maximizes both modularity and space efficiency.
04
Integrated regenerative life support systems ensure self-sufficiency for occupants.
05
Transformable interior spaces facilitate multiple functions within a compact footprint.

## Analytical Report: PATH // Pneumatic Adaptive Tessellation Habitat

### Overview

The PATH: Pneumatic Adaptive Tessellation Habitat is conceived for potential deployment in extreme environments, specifically targeting conditions found on Mars. The design focuses on sustainable living solutions that are adaptable to the unique challenges of extraterrestrial habitation. The habitat emphasizes swift deployment and functional versatility, enabling it to respond effectively to the harsh and unpredictable climate of space.

### Structural and Functional Innovations

#### Adaptive Pneumatic System

The habitat incorporates an adaptive pneumatic system, utilizing inflatable silicone padding that adjusts to external environmental changes. This system enhances thermal insulation and structural integrity while providing a dynamic response to temperature variations and radiation exposure. The tessellated geometric configuration, resembling a rhodontriacontahedron, distributes stresses efficiently, allowing the habitat to expand or contract based on occupancy and environmental conditions.

#### Ergonomic Interior Design

Internally, the layout is designed to optimize ergonomic efficiency and utility through transformable spaces that accommodate various functions, seamlessly transitioning between living and working areas. A regenerative life support system is embedded within the design, facilitating oxygen generation, waste recycling, and space for food cultivation, essential for long-term habitation. Additionally, circadian skylights are positioned strategically to mimic natural light cycles, promoting occupant well-being, while integrated storage solutions maximize space within the compact environment.

This architecture demonstrates the potential for a closed-loop ecosystem, prioritizing sustainability and autonomous living. The mobility aspect, characterized by a dual-layer mechanical system, enhances its capability to navigate diverse terrains while maintaining structural stability, further supporting future colonization efforts on Mars and similar planetary bodies.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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