Pneumatic Membranes: Atmospheric Pressure and Structural Art

This lecture explores the design and behavior of pneumatic membranes in structural engineering, focusing on the influence of atmospheric pressure. Starting with an overview of atmospheric pressure measurements, the instructor discusses various projects such as the Tokyo Dome and the Allianz Arena, showcasing the application of pneumatic membranes in iconic structures. The lecture delves into the technical aspects of high-pressure pneumatic membranes, highlighting projects like the Water Cube in Beijing and the Miroiterie Building in Lausanne. Through examples like the 'Les galets' installation at Expo 02, the lecture emphasizes the innovative use of pneumatic membranes in architectural design.