Frontier environments—such as battlefields, hostile territories, remote locations, or outer
space—drive the need for lightweight, deployable structures that can be stored in a compact
configuration and deployed quickly and easily in the field. We introduce the concept of lattice
skins to enable the design, solid freeform fabrication (SFF), and deployment of customizable
structures with nearly arbitrary surface profile and lightweight multi-functionality. Using
Duraform FLEX® material in a selective laser sintering machine, large deployable structures are
fabricated in a nominal build chamber by either virtually collapsing them into a condensed form
or decomposing them into smaller parts. Before fabrication, lattice sub-skins are added
strategically beneath the surface of the part. The lattices provide elastic energy for folding and
deploying the structure or constrain expansion upon application of internal air pressure. Nearly
arbitrary surface profiles are achievable and internal space is preserved for subsequent usage. In
this paper, we present the results of a set of experimental and computational models that are
designed to provide proof of concept for lattice skins as a deployment mechanism in SFF and to
demonstrate the effect of lattice structure on deployed shape.Mechanical Engineerin
