Abstract:
A rapidly deployable protective enclosure is constructed from a flexible membrane surrounding a framework of inflatable support members each individually coupled to a central fluid distribution system. Each inflatable support member is individually repairable or replaceable from within the enclosure without effecting the structural integrity of the remaining framework. A system is provided to make the enclosure air tight along interlocking tongue and groove tracks, and an air tight passage between modularly connected enclosures is also provided.
Abstract:
A rapidly deployable protective enclosure is constructed from a flexible membrane surrounding a framework of inflatable support members each individually coupled to a central fluid distribution system. Each inflatable support member is individually repairable or replaceable from within the enclosure without effecting the structural integrity of the remaining framework. A system is provided to make the enclosure air tight, and air tight passage between modularly connected enclosures is also provided.
Abstract:
An inflatable tent comprises a frame and an optionally removable cover. The frame has a single inflatable continuous generally-tubular member. The generally-tubular member comprises a base section and an upright section. The base section is fixedly attached at one or more connection points to the upright section. The upright section comprises a rounded main arch having two ends, both of which are fixedly attached to the base section. The upright section further comprises at least one rounded supporting arch segment having one end attached to the main arch and the other end attached to the base section.
Abstract:
An inflatable tent construction 10 including a wall unit 11, and a roof unit 12 fabricated from fifteen side panels 40 wherein each side panel 40 comprises a panel member 30 surrounded by two inflatable side channels 21, 22, and an inflatable base channel 23 that define generally identically shaped equilateral triangles. The wall unit comprises first and second groups of five panel members 30, respectively, and the roof unit 12 comprises a third group of five panel members 30 to create the pentadecahedron configuration of the wall 11 and roof 12 units of the tent construction.
Abstract:
Rigidifiable composites are formed by stitching a reinforced B-stage resin sheet stock to form a three-dimensional preform. The preform is subsequently rigidified by initiating final cure of the resin. Molded articles, inflatable and other structures, such as, tank, tunnel and sewer liners are some of the typical structures which can be formed by the methods of the invention. Control of thread count, thread tension and thread spacing can be used to consolidate multi-ply or layered preforms, which, upon cure, can have up to 90% of the load carrying capacity of compression molded fiber reinforced articles.
Abstract:
The tent includes an inflatable frame which, when it is not inflated, is flaccid. The frame is continuous and is defined by a generally-tubular member. The frame includes segments which define a floor-forming portion and a pair of oppositely-facing, wall-forming portions. Means are provided to inflate the frame, when desired, to impart a measure of rigidity thereto. A fabric enclosure is provided to surround the frame. At least one substantially-rigid, elongated member is provided for insertion between frame segments defining the pair of oppositely-facing, wall-forming portions of the frame. Those portions are, thereby, maintained at a desired distance from one another.
Abstract:
A tent has a flexible canopy, a floor and a series of inflatable tubes serving as frame hoops. The tubes are fastened removably to the tent using sleeves that open along a longitudinal slit and hook and loop pile fastener closures for closing the sleeves on the tubes.
Abstract:
A tent formed of a plurality of mechanically interconnected but pneumatically separate, elongate inflatable tubes defining the perimeter of the tent structure for being separately inflated and a plurality of valves pneumatically connected to respective separately-inflatable tube for inflating the tubes. A plurality of wall panels are suspended from and between the tubes to define the enclosure of the tent whereby the tubes define a support structure exterior to the enclosure of the tent.
Abstract:
An inflatable tent structure comprising a plurality of pneumatically interconnected, elongate inflatable tubes defining the perimeter of the tent structure for being inflated in unison. A valve is provided for inflating the tubes and a plurality of wall panels are suspended from and between the tubes to define the enclosure of the tent whereby the tubes define a support structure exterior to the enclosure of the tent. The tubes define a dome-shaped structure, the tubes converging in pneumatic interconnection with each other in a single plane at the apex of the dome-shaped structure. The valve includes a manifold into which all of the tubes interconnect at the apex of the dome-shaped structure.
Abstract:
Significant, life-saving protection from airborne, radioactive (fallout) particles due to nuclear explosions, nuclear reactor accidents, and other releases of radioactive particulate is provided by a double-wall tent structure quickly erectable over a central bench or hole. The tent structure includes tightly woven, rip-resistant fabric panels supported by tensile rods or wands, a tub floor extending into and lining a central trench or hole, and an exterior, light-reflecting, metalized, semi-transparent disposable membrane. The bottom circumferential edge of the outer membrane extends into a shallow trench or ditch, excavated around the perimeter of the inner tent structure. Dust particles settling onto the smooth exterior surface of the membrane slide off and are captured in the shallow ditch, thus minimizing direct or indirect radiation into the central trench or hole and its occupants. The perimeter of the outer membrane contains pockets for the storage of potable water and for anchoring of the outer membrane. The tub floor lining extending below the ground surface includes sealable pockets suitable for the storage of refuse and human waste during occupancy. Also described is a light-weight single membrane, plastic, portable tent, suitable for low-cost mass production.