Abstract
The development of the "non standard" architecture, mainly based on curved surfaces using rigid frames combined with cladding panels, emphasizes on new needs. A lightweight innovative solution has been developed to provide adaptable flat or curved cladding panels fixed on the supporting structure, with thermal insulation and possible prefabrication. The panels are realized with an association of tensile membranes and a woven structure of prestressed composite profiles. They are designed on the principle of tensegrity and provide both properties of flexibility and rigidity. Mechanical studies have been performed to determine the relationships between the panel shape and its initial stresses ("form control" and "force control" strategies) and a FEM analysis allows identifying the behavior in association with experimental testing on a prototype system. In parallel, thermal studies have been initiated to evaluate the performance of this double membrane panel.