This has to be one of the most half-baked inventions in history. If it didn’t come with such noble intentions–to question the relationship between the human body and its surrounding environment–it would most definitely take the cake. It’s implausible to think that anyone in their right mind would ever 1. buy this and 2. wear it in public. I’m all for getting more sleep throughout the day, but wearing a foam cocoon so I can pass out anywhere is a bit ridiculous. Not to mention people would think I were mad, and probably either push me down a hill or have me admitted. Lots of information and photos, including a detailed explanation of putting it on and taking if off in less than a minute, are included below. [Courtesy of Dangerous Minds via Blogitecture]

“It is inspired by Buckminster Fuller’s practice of Dymaxion Sleeping, which involves four 30-minute naps over a period of 24 hours, and the material requirements for such conditions. Architecturally, the very close relationship between the human body and the suit acts as the generator of form as well as tool to negotiate between the occupant and his or her surroundings.  The structure of the material, a structural pleat, is used as a means to create feelings of connected and disconnectedness as well as provide varying levels of support for different parts of the body.  By thinking of the cut pattern as sections of the body, the structure can act as a semi-permeable outer skin.”

“The dymaxion sleep cycle was branded as a more “efficient” method of sleeping, where the sleeping phases give the body the rest it requires for survival. By reducing the form to exactly what the sleep program requires, it creates a portable structure that could be taken on and off in less than a minute.  It also introduced a new ritual into the sleep cycle, which has been identified as an important part of sleep behavior missing from many dymaxion sleepers’ patterns.”

“The suit acts as a transportable and adjustable cocoon that allows for constant air flow in a variety of different positions and environments.  By supporting the body in all the right places and at the same time both filtering and acknowledging its surroundings and occupant, the sleep suit provides for a sound 30 minute nap.  After all, you only get four of them every 24-hours.”