Deployable structures with core-shell balloons

Nature is abound with structures undergoing extreme mechanics to accomplish complex physical tasks. When a larva undergoes metamorphosis and emerges, its wings expand tremendously to allow for adult insect flight. Inspired by the wing vein network, we build a model system consisting of core-shell tubes made from rubber inner tubes and wrinkled shells. We first study the mechanical response of a single core-shell balloon under increasing pressure. We characterize the in-plane expansion of the structure and study its correlation to the network geometry. Finally, we explore how to control global transformations by locally changing the stiffness via differential pressure applied in the system.