Abstract:
An airbeam (12) is formed of a bladder (20) covered by a sleeve (42) having a preselected shape, which may be for example curvilinear. When the bladder is inflated it takes the shape of the sleeve to form a structural member for a shelter or other temporary structure. Preferably the sleeve is a braided fabric. The airbeam is made by first forming a solid mandrel of the bladder and then braiding the sleeve about the mandrel. The fabric is formed of several interlocked layers.
Abstract:
An airbeam (12) is formed of a bladder (20) covered by a sleeve (42) having a preselected shape, which may be for example curvilinear. When the bladder is inflated it takes the shape of the sleeve to form a structural member for a shelter or other temporary structure. Preferably the sleeve is a braided fabric. The airbeam is made by first forming a solid mandrel of the bladder and then braiding the sleeve about the mandrel. The fabric is formed of several interlocked layers.