Soana, Valentina; (2021) ELAbody: Human-Material-Machine Choreographies. [Group exhibition]. Venice, Italy. 22 May - 21 November 2021.

Video Soana_ELAbody_Shared_.mp4 - Supplemental Material Download (230MB)

Abstract

ELAbody is an elastic robotic structure performing as both an interactive sculptural kinetic column and an exoskeleton. The actuated system connects directly to the human body, guiding it through specific movements. These movements serve various purposes, such as therapeutic sequences, where the body is pushed and pulled to stretch and bend in response to elastic structural deformations. The robotic system controls rhythm and frequency, shaping the interaction between structure and user. This project is part of a broader research agenda at the intersection of architecture and engineering, integrating material and robotic intelligence to develop novel dynamic structures. By embedding mechanical actuators into elastic systems, these structures transition between multiple states of equilibrium using minimal material and actuation energy. Their form emerges from a dynamic interplay of forces and material behaviour, governed by a cyber-physical network that processes real-time physical data within a computational framework. At a conceptual level, this research redefines the role of robotics in architecture, moving beyond conventional tools to envision robotic spaces, structures, and building systems. This approach introduces new interaction scenarios between humans, materials, and machines. In ELAbody, transformations arise from the tension and cooperation between robotic actuators and human movement. This exchange of forces generates new performative possibilities, enabling controlled body movements. In this demonstration, ELAbody guides the user's arms and upper body, inducing specific motions at a regulated rhythm, highlighting its potential for adaptive, responsive architectural systems.

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