MOBI-X


Fig. 1 & 2: Spacesuit design references, ideation, brainstorming, Fig. 3: CLO 3D simulation of fabric fold structures, Fig. 4: CLO 3D Spacesuit design, Fig. 5: Physical prototype, Fig. 6: NiTi as a medium of mechanical pressurization using piezo ribbon sensor across the limb movement.


Video: Piezo ribbon sensor controls the bend of NiTi wire
Mobi-X: NASA Spacesuits Redesigned & Reimagined

Design for Extreme Environments Apparel Design Digital Fabrication Physical Computation

This studio builds on the precedents set by MIT’s 3D Knit BioSuit™ research by Prof. Dava Newman and team, extending its exploration of soft, body-conforming pressure systems through physical computing and advanced textile fabrication. The project investigates how Nitinol, known for its shape-memory and actuation properties can function as a controllable mechanized layer within a wearable pressure garment. By integrating an Arduino-driven system with a ribbon piezo sensor, the textile architecture modulates localized external pressurization in response to limb movement, enabling a dynamic, movement-aware actuation loop. Through this coupling of smart materials and embedded sensing, the work prototypes an adaptive pressure system capable of supporting next-generation extravehicular mobility.

Acknowledgements: This work was done towards the fulfilment of the Master in Industrial Design program during Spring of 2025 and was partially supported by RISD Industrial Design Department's Marc Harrison Fund.