Adaptive Acoustic Membrane

The Adaptive Acoustic Membrane takes precedent from the structure of the tympanic membrane and its relationship with the middle ear bones (malleus, incus, and stapes) to create a membrane “drum” whose structure and acoustic properties are affected by how the rigid members lock in to or peel away from each other.
The interlocking tiles are laminated to an elastic membrane that allows them to change shape globally.
Concave forms allow for sound to be focused as the tiles pack to create a relatively smooth surface.
Conversely, convex forms pull the tiles apart, allowing sound to diffuse by reflecting off of the tile's rough sides.
The membranes lock their shape by slotting in to a hexagonal grid.