Which limitations, if any, must exhibit designers weigh when using tension fabrics as their primary structural component?
Primarily, you would want to consider whether to use ground supports or hanging supports because aluminum structures are light and make decent unsupported spans. But if the distance is too great, it will deflect. And while there is a large selection of fabrics to choose from, fabrics are milled with different widths, properties of stretch, colors, levels of opacity and intended use. For example, some are designed for outdoor use, front or rear projection and various levels of water permeability. If there are any seams in the fabric, you want to place them where they won’t be noticed.
Which kind of custom elements do tension fabrics offer exhibit designers?
In addition to lowering costs and weight, tension fabrics offer the ability to create changing radii and compound curves while unleashing one’s imagination to create organic shapes not possible with hard panels.
Are advancements being made to help contain sound when using tension-fabric construction?
There are more fabrics available and more being developed with various levels of sound-dampening characteristics.
Are there any common misconceptions about using fabric displays?
The biggest misconception is what you can do with fabric and its versatility. In today’s market, you can see many different uses of fabric for office spaces, exhibits, retail and corporate environments and even high-end living. Tension fabric can be used to create rooms, ceiling treatments, table bases, dividers and projection surfaces.
How do tension fabrics affect how lighting can be used in tradeshow exhibits?
When using front or rear projection, tension fabrics can provide a great canvas for creating dramatic or mood effects.
Are tension fabrics on the cutting-edge of tradeshow display technology, or are there any new innovations coming that might partly replace them tension fabrics?
There are new extrusions, connection types, fabrics and alternative materials coming to the market. Since cost is an important factor, it’s yet to be seen if these alternative materials can find a place or be an alternative to tension fabric as its produced today.
Elevation Point, Inc. has been in business since 2005 and is located in Gurnee, IL. The executive team has more than 40 years of experience in creating fabric and metal structures.
