‘Rapid Kinetic’ is an educational toolkit for prototyping lightweight dynamic structures. It consists of custom 3d printed modular snap-fit joints, DIY pneumatic artificial muscles, and a custom pneumatic control and simulation system.
In addition to the kit itself, a platform of instructional videos allows makers to quickly build structures such as a bike frame, furniture, kinetic lights and a 3-axis robot arm. Through the creation of a collective community, makers can upload their designs with the kit and share their inventions and knowledge. Comprising of 5 key joint components, the modular design allows for a minimum amount of parts with multiple configurations. The manufacturing and low cost production challenge drives the off the shelf material selection of the aluminum rods. DIY pneumatic artificial muscles — a lightweight and efficient actuator that can lift loads 40 times its own weight — complete the kit.
