What is the difference between tensile membrane structure and inflatable membrane structure?

Introduction

In contemporary architecture, membrane structures, with their unique curved shapes and soft light and shadow effects, have become the preferred choice for many stadiums and landscape landmarks. Tensile membrane structures and inflatable membrane structures are the two most common forms. Both use PVC-coated fabric as their primary material.

However, the same material does not necessarily mean the same structural principles and application scenarios. The difference between them is like the difference between a "tent" and a "balloon."

Skeleton support vs. air filling

This is the most fundamental difference between tensile membrane structures and inflatable membrane structures, determining all their characteristics and applications.

Tensile membrane structures rely on a "skeleton" for support.

The core of tensile membrane structures lies in "tension." They use rigid support structures such as steel cables, masts, and arches to form a stable skeleton system. The PVC-coated fabric membrane is then stretched and secured to this skeleton. Pre-tensioning the membrane creates a stable and powerful curved surface. This is like holding up an umbrella: the ribs provide the support structure, and the canopy is the "membrane" held open by the ribs.

Inflatable Membrane Structures Rely on Air Pressure

Inflatable membrane structures are more like giant air castles. They lack a traditional rigid skeleton. Instead, they continuously pump air into the enclosed space, raising the internal pressure slightly above the external atmospheric pressure (typically 200-700 Pa, barely perceptible to the human body). This lifts the soft PVC-coated fabric, creating the desired architectural space. Just like inflating a balloon, the shape of the balloon's skin (membrane) is entirely maintained by the internal air pressure.

The Difference Between Visual and Spatial Design

Tensile Membrane Structures

High Transparency: Due to their skeletal support, they enable designs with large overhangs and open boundaries, creating a visually light and airy effect that blends seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Flexible Shapes: It's easier to achieve complex and varied curved shapes, creating a strong artistic appeal. These structures are often used in landscape installations, toll booths, stage roofs, and more.

Partially Enclosed Space: Often, it's simply a roof with open sides, primarily used for sun protection and rain shelter, rather than creating a fully enclosed environment.

Inflatable Membrane Structure

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Strong Integrity: As a complete, column-free inflatable structure, it provides a vast, continuous, barrier-free interior space, creating a visually complete and magnificent effect.

Good Enclosure: It's inherently a fully enclosed structure, making it ideal for venues requiring strict internal environmental control (e.g., constant temperature, humidity, and dust control), such as stadiums, warehouses, and greenhouses.

Relatively Simple Form: Mostly domes, arches, or elliptical shapes, offering slightly less freedom in design than tensile membranes.

Differences in Function and Application

Typical Applications of Tensile Membrane Structures:

Architectural Landscape: Park and Plaza Awnings, Pedestrian Street Pavilions, and Residential Entrances.

Transportation Facilities: Highway Toll Booths, Gas Stations, and Bus Platforms. Sports and entertainment: Stadium stand roofs, open-air stages, and swimming pool shades.

Typical applications of inflatable membrane structures:

Sports venues: Tennis halls, swimming pools, badminton halls, etc., providing large, column-free spaces.

Industrial storage: Environmentally friendly coal bunkers, garbage transfer stations, and logistics warehouses, achieving fully enclosed management.

Emergency facilities: Temporary exhibition halls, disaster relief warehouses, and military facilities, which can be quickly inflated.

Agricultural greenhouses: Providing uniform, diffused light and a stable internal environment.

Conclusion

While both tensile membrane structures and inflatable membrane structures utilize the excellent material of PVC-coated fabric, they offer distinctly different architectural solutions. If you seek architectural aesthetics, transparency, and a connection with nature, tensile membrane structures are the ideal choice.