Air beam construction using differential pressure chambers
US6463699B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 23, 2001 |
| Grant date | Oct 15, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 23, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE04H2015/207
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An air beam structure having reduced weight, increased rigidity, and lower inflation pressure requirements. The structure includes a closed tubular cylindrical shell of air impermeable fabric having at least one inflation valve. Fixed within the shell is an “I” beam envelope comprised of flexible, air impermeable walls sealed to the interior of the shell. The “I” beam envelope extends the length of the shell and defines at least four air chambers in communication with the inflation valve. A quantity of compressible material is dispersed throughout the interior of the “I” beam envelope. When subjected to compressive forces by pressurization of the air chambers, the material becomes rigid. The filled envelope is either vented to atmosphere or connected to a vacuum source. The air beam is used in groups and may be connected one to another by sheet materials to form a wall or roof structure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.