BamGrip

Non-invasive modular bamboo joints inspired by soft robotics for circular, scalable, carbon-negative construction .

Watch the 1-minute pitch video

https://youtu.be/X1R-k-NsPco

Long description

BamGrip is a non-invasive and modular bamboo fastening system inspired by soft robotics. It acts like a mechanical gripper that uses surface friction and bistable geometry to hold bamboo poles in place—no screws, bolts, or nails. Made from flexible, durable materials like cast rubber or TPU, it’s designed to be fabricated locally and reused repeatedly. Bamboo is a carbon-sequestering material with superior strength-to-weight ratios, but its irregular form hinders standardization. This system addresses that by adapting to local bamboo sizes, enabling circular building systems. Tested through full-scale mockups and academic research, the fastening system has been prototyped in MDF, rubber / silicone , and 3D print media. Future applications include modular toilets, disaster-relief shelters, and public furniture. BamGrip empowers communities to build with climate-resilient, regenerative materials—without advanced tools.