Including Subdividing Elements Patents (Class 52/2.23)
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Patent number: 10822828Abstract: Fabric structures with raceways and methods of making same are disclosed. In some embodiments, the fabric structures are air supported structures that form an enclosure via internal pressurized air. The air supported structures include an outer membrane that defined an outer surface of the structure. The air supported structures further include a plurality of inner segments formed of tab members coupled to and extending from the outer membrane toward the interior of the enclosure, and at least one inner liner panel coupled to and extending between adjacent tab members spaced inwardly from the outer membrane to form at least one air pocket therebetween. An attachment portion of the tab members extends inwardly past the at least one inner liner panel into the enclosure and forms at least one hardware attachment point.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2019Date of Patent: November 3, 2020Assignee: Air Structures American Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Donato Michael Fraioli, Sr., Donato Anthony Fraioli, Donato Joseph Fraioli
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Patent number: 9528291Abstract: Ephemeral architecture device constituted by a dome-shaped receptacle (1) of high strength fabric and a single layer consisting of a multitude of fabric panels (2) artistically sewn together in alternating colors, which in turn comprises sections of independent segments (4) also integrated through sewing. The dome in turn includes: one or more air inflation ports (8) located at the ground level, in which there is coupled in each case one air blowing device such as a fan (9); and a perimeter skirt (6) located along its lower edge and bent inwardly, positioned parallel to the ground on which it is installed, over which a multitude of counterweights (7) are strategically placed along the perimeter.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2016Date of Patent: December 27, 2016Inventor: Jordi Enrich Jorba
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Patent number: 9347219Abstract: A convertible roof element includes a peripheral structure with an opening to be at least partially closed by a membrane, an edge rope and at least one guide rope forming a rope band tensioned against each other. The convertible roof element has a parking position and at least one shading position, the parking position running along the peripheral structure and the at least one shading position running across the opening of the peripheral structure. The edge rope is fixed at its ends via a first tensioning device to the peripheral structure. The at least one guide rope is secured to the edge rope at one end and at the other end to the peripheral structure by means of a further tensioning device. The tensile force of the further tensioning device is variable so that the edge rope is moveable from the parking position into the at least one shading position.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2014Date of Patent: May 24, 2016Assignee: SL Rasch GmbH Special & Lightweight StructuresInventors: Bodo Rasch, Juergen Bradatsch, Frei Otto, Martin Leitner
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Patent number: 9015998Abstract: An airbeam includes at least a pair of inflatable beams each having an inner sleeve, middle sleeve and outer cover. Each sleeve is stitched to form flat side seams. The sleeves are inverted so that each flat side seam is disposed cantilevered inwardly on the inside of the sleeve. A linear common seam bisects the stitched side edges of the outer cover to form a pair of outer sleeves. One middle sleeve is nested within each outer sleeve. One inner sleeve is nested within each middle sleeve. One inner tube is nested in each inner sleeve. The nesting is arranged so that the side seams of the inner and middle sleeves are adjacent one another or overlap one another along, their entire length and so that the side seams of the outer cover are adjacent or overlap the side seams of the middle sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2011Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Universal Airbeams Inc.Inventor: Jean-Marc Daniel Turcot
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Publication number: 20150040487Abstract: An improved system and method for applying a spray-on bed-liner to a truck bed is herein disclosed. An inflatable bed-liner booth can comprise an inflatable frame, a roof, a floor, a plurality of wall sections, one or more air inlets, a plurality of air vents, an entry port, and one or more exhaust panels. The inflatable frame can comprise a plurality of vertical supports. The roof at the top of the inflatable frame. The floor at the bottom of the inflatable frame. The wall sections can be defined by at least one of the inflatable frame, the roof, and the floor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2014Publication date: February 12, 2015Inventor: Thomas Wiliams
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Patent number: 8887654Abstract: Floating platform (1) having a flat cover element (2) and a sealing element (3), which is connected to the cover element (2), makes a sealing contact with a liquid surface (4) during operation and encloses a closed cavity (5) together with the cover element (2) and the liquid surface (4) or a bottom surface, in which cavity (5) an overpressure which supports the cover element (2) can be produced by a compressed-air production apparatus (5?), with at least one circumferential wall (6) being provided as the sealing element (3), and having a sealing section (3?) which projects into the liquid during operation.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2011Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Heliovis AGInventor: Johannes Hoefler
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Publication number: 20140245668Abstract: A shelter assembly includes a multi-layered, fluid filled shelter that does not require rods for assembly. The assembly includes sidewalls that form a framework for a shelter. The sidewalls comprise air filled materials having a substantially planar shape. The sidewalls form a plurality of layers. Apertures in the sidewalls enable a fluid to pass between each layer for forming an insulating effect on the assembly. The apertures also serve as a cavity for a rod to pass through and fasten the shelter to a surface. A lower floor sidewall and an upper floor sidewall rest adjacent to each other, forming a sandwich configuration that creates insulation and air circulation between layers. At least one channel, such as a chimney, enables an external fluid to circulate through the assembly. A gate portion provides access to the assembly. A roof sidewall provides an external protective upper covering.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2013Publication date: September 4, 2014Inventor: Mehri Mafi
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Patent number: 8756896Abstract: A roof protection system and a method for constructing the roof protection system for an enclosure provide protection for inhabitants and equipment in the enclosure against projectiles and other falling objects that could impact and penetrate the top of the enclosure. The roof protection system includes roof protection sections wherein each section includes a frame with a plurality of spaces between support beams. A flexible bag of woven para-aramid fiber (e.g., Kevlar® brand fiber) is positioned in each space. Each bag is filled with a selected material such as sand, gravel, cement or other high-strength fill material. First and second outer panels of a non-combustible board laminated to a metallic sheet enclose the flexible bags. The roof protection sections are mounted on support structures so that sections span the top of enclosure and are spaced apart from the top enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2012Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Specialty Hardware L.P.Inventor: A. Carleton Elliott
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Publication number: 20140020306Abstract: The subject invention relates to an inflatable structure that can be inflated and deployed by being pressurized with a fluid, said inflatable structure comprising: a plurality of cell members having an inner space and walls, wherein the walls of the cell members enclose the inner space within the cell members, wherein the walls of the cell members include at least two rows of fibers wherein the rows of fibers extend through the walls of the cell members at an angle that is offset by 15° to 75°, wherein the plurality of cell members are affixed together to provide the desired shape of the inflatable structure, and wherein there is at least one orifice in each cell member through which said fluid can be added to inflate the inflatable structure into the desired shape.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2013Publication date: January 23, 2014Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF AKRON RESEARCH FOUNDATIONInventor: Wieslaw K. Binienda
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Patent number: 8578657Abstract: Embodiments include an inflatable support structure enclosing a region fillable by a fluid at a positive pressure above an atmospheric pressure. A flexible screen is attached to the support structure, a region between the flexible screen and the support structure fillable by a fluid at a negative pressure below the atmospheric pressure that holds the flexible screen in a shape suitable for image projection. A method according to embodiments includes inflating an inflatable support structure with a fluid at a positive pressure above an atmospheric pressure and removing fluid from a region between the support structure and a flexible screen attached to the support structure to hold the flexible screen in a shape suitable for image projection with the fluid at the negative pressure below the atmospheric pressure between the flexible screen and the support structure.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2006Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: The Elumenati, LLCInventors: D'nardo Colucci, David M. McConville, Clayton C. Hooker
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Patent number: 8528260Abstract: The invention comprises a structure having at least two separate air chambers (7) enclosed by flexible, flat material (8) and having flexible bars (9) in the interior thereof for stabilizing an external shape of the air chambers (7). The structure is characterized in that the air chambers (7) form a wall structure (4) in the inflated state. By means of such a wall structure (4)—preferably in conjunction with a corresponding ceiling structure (16)—lightweight berths (1), particularly for aircraft crew, flight passengers, or transported injured persons, can be set up quickly and simply.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2008Date of Patent: September 10, 2013Assignee: Lantal TextilesInventors: Roland Von Ballmoos, Laszlo Kerekes, Dragan Radanovic, Andreas Gühmann, Iris Suter
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Patent number: 8499500Abstract: A shelter including a support assembly having a plurality of inflatable supports each having an elongated tube body and defining at least two separate longitudinal passages pneumatically separated by a bladder, wherein the tube bodies of each support is connected to the tube body of one or more of the other supports and wherein each of the passages of the each support is pneumatically connected to each of the passages of the other supports, and wherein the supports are spaced circumferentially apart as legs of the support assembly for forming a perimeter of the shelter, and a single port pneumatically coupled to only one of the supports, the port configured for passing air between an external pneumatic vessel and the support to which the port is coupled and a canopy including a plurality of wall panels, the wall panels being configured for being suspended from the support assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2012Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: HKD International (HK) LimitedInventor: Samuel Lamke
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Patent number: 8479452Abstract: A transportable workstation suitable for providing a closed environment for spraying a vehicle has a base sheet and a cover sheet connected to the edges of the base sheet and at least partially releasable therefrom. First and second further sheets are provided within the cover sheet and are also releasably connected to the base sheet in order to define first and second end chambers, between which is formed a work chamber. An air blower drives air into the first end chamber and passageways allow the flow of air from the first end chamber into the work chamber and from there into the second end chamber before release to the ambient. A filter is associated with the air flow through the second end chamber to prevent pollutants entering the atmosphere. Closable access openings are provided in the first end chamber, respectively from the exterior and to the work chamber.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2007Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Inventor: George Page
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Patent number: 8201285Abstract: The pool covering system provides an effective way of protecting a swimming pool from dirt and debris. The system includes an inflatable, dome shaped body and attached outer most layer configured to rest atop an existing swimming pool, repelling dirt, debris, water and snow, thus preventing this debris from collecting within the pool or on top of a liner. A bladder inflating mechanism is provided for selectively introducing air into the body such that the body maintains a dome shape and urges the fluid and debris away from the top surface of the pool. Passageways are provided inside the bladder for evenly distributing air therein and overcoming a weight of water and debris resting on the outer most layer.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2009Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Inventors: Gennaro Pugliese, Domenic Pugliese
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Patent number: 8166711Abstract: A shelter including a support assembly having a plurality of inflatable supports each having an elongated tube body and defining at least two separate longitudinal passages pneumatically separated by a bladder, wherein the tube bodies of each support is connected to the tube body of one or more of the other supports and wherein each of the passages of the each support is pneumatically connected to each of the passages of the other supports, and wherein the supports are spaced circumferentially apart as legs of the support assembly for forming a perimeter of the shelter, and a single port pneumatically coupled to only one of the supports, the port configured for passing air between an external pneumatic vessel and the support to which the port is coupled and a canopy including a plurality of wall panels, the wall panels being configured for being suspended from the support assembly.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2007Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: HKD International (HK) LimitedInventor: Samuel Lamke
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Patent number: 8146296Abstract: To provide an enclosure structure for a building, which can maintain a high power generation efficiency without formation of irregularities on the surface of the enclosure such as a roof, nor application of an external force to solar battery modules, and which can form a lightweight enclosure capable of photovoltaic generation. An enclosure structure for a building, comprising an outer film material made of a light transmitting material and arranged on the outer surface side of the building, an inner film material arranged along inside of the outer film material, an intermediate film material disposed between the outer film material and the inner film material, an air supply means for supplying air to the space between the outer film material and the inner film material, and solar battery modules 7 provided on the inner surface of the intermediate film material.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2010Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Asahi Glass Company, LimitedInventors: Kaoru Nishikawa, Takuya Nakao
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Publication number: 20110314747Abstract: Inflatable protective structures for sleeping, privacy and or containment are disclosed. A certain defined area that will consist of an inflatable sitting or sleeping area as well as a non inflatable area for such use as storage or changing. Said area to be enclosed by inflatable walls at two ends that are higher than the sleeping area high enough for a person to sit. Inflatable walls at each end act as support for a roof. Roof consisting of a light cloth like material which would enclose top, front and back and sides and bottom. Front and back of structure may include windows and a door for easy access. Alternatively cloth material could be partially removed with roof or walls only remaining. These Additional uses could be as a child or pet play pen and sleeping area. Unit could also be used without tent like covering.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2010Publication date: December 29, 2011Inventor: Charles O. Massey
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Patent number: 8011986Abstract: The inflatable buoyant tent apparatus provides a buoyant shelter for use on water. The apparatus is deflatable and inflatable except for the battery pack, alarm, pump, and pressure sensor. The apparatus is therefore compactly transported. The included switched air pump provides for automatic inflation. The most complete apparatus embodiment provides a spine and ribs that ensure rigidity of the tent. Rigidity for the float chamber is aided by corrugations that extend from the chamber first end to the chamber second end. The pressure sensor provides constant monitoring of the inflatable apparatus, with automatic pump operation initiated at a given low pressure setting, and automatic pump cessation upon the apparatus reaching a given air pressure. The beacon atop the tent provides clear visibility of the apparatus, especially at night, to ensure the safety of the apparatus and anyone within the tent. Tent flaps are provided for each end of the tent.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2009Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Inventor: Clay A. Curtsinger
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Patent number: 7963075Abstract: An inflatable barrier system for a doorway or other opening comprising a front side envelope of rectangular front elevation and dog bone shaped horizontal plane cross section, inflatable with gas and fillable with a hardening foam, combined with an inflatable back side array of tubular air beams configured with self sealant, both connected to a source of gas for inflating the fabric envelope and the back side array of tubular air beams. The front side envelope is configured for frontal resistance to predetermined levels of push, cut, puncture, flame, chemical, and ballistic attack. The system is used as a method for closing a doorway to such attacks by erecting and inflating the system within the opening such that the edges on either side of the opening are gripped between the lobes of the respective ends of the dog bone profile of the front side envelope.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2006Date of Patent: June 21, 2011Assignee: Warwick Mills, Inc.Inventor: Charles A Howland
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Publication number: 20110110076Abstract: A foil cushion is described, in particular, a building envelope element with at least one foil cushion that has two outer foil layers that form, between themselves, a cavity that is advantageously closed in an essentially fluid-tight way and that contains a fluid medium, in particular, air. The special feature of the invention consists in that in the cavity there is a carrier on which a group of light-emitting diodes displaying advantageously alphanumeric symbols and/or images is attached on this carrier. Advantageously, the carrier can be arranged as an additional foil layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2008Publication date: May 12, 2011Inventor: Thomas Langner
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Patent number: 7913457Abstract: An asset protection apparatus comprising at least one module is disclosed. A module comprises at least one interior layer contacting an asset surface; at least one thermal layer affixed to said at least one interior layer, wherein said at least one thermal layer includes heat adding and heat removal means capable of removing or adding heat to said asset surface or a substance adjacent said at least one thermal layer; and at least one exterior layer affixed to said at least one thermal layer, wherein said at least one exterior layer is constructed of a material or plurality of materials that alone or in combination are resistant to degradation from exposure to outdoor elements, wherein said apparatus is cooperatively secured to said asset surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2010Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Inventor: James R. Orr
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Patent number: 7849635Abstract: Described is a building encasement element (100) with a foil cushion that comprises an outer foil layer (101) forming the outside of a building envelope and an inner foil layer (102) forming the outside of a building envelope, wherein these foil layers form, between themselves, at least one essentially fluid-tight, enclosed hollow space in which a fluid medium, in particular, air, is contained, and with a reinforcement element (107).Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2009Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Vector FoiltecInventor: Thomas Langner
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Publication number: 20100281783Abstract: A temporary protective system provides for minimizing storm damage to selected framing systems of a structure, such as door or window openings, while also eliminating the permanent installation damage common to such structures when conventional plywood covers, shutters, or metal shielding are installed. The protective system incorporates an inflation system and an attachment or securing system for securing the inflation system relative to the selected framing or structural system without damage. The multiple proposed systems allow a user to install each protective system from a convenient position and to uninstall the system without causing structural damage for later compact storage. An additional rigid shielding member, or a series of rigid shielding members, may be incorporated to provide additional protection.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 11, 2009Publication date: November 11, 2010Inventor: Patrick Harrington
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Patent number: 7770332Abstract: A construction object (a structure) that enables access to high altitudes.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2006Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Inventor: Muhamed Semiz
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Patent number: 7770590Abstract: A housing has an expansion tent connectable thereto. A bag-shaped cover is present, and has an opening permanently connected to the housing. The cover forms the interior surface of the erected expansion tent, and is suitable for hermetically sealing off the interior of the housing and the expansion tent with respect to the environment. Sealing can be provided during all operating conditions, while erecting the tent, and while dismantling the tent.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2007Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: EADS Deutschland GmbHInventors: Andreas Serden, Martin Deister, Peter Geiselhart, Ingo Aust, Jan Krueder
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Publication number: 20100140401Abstract: The invention comprises a structure having at least two separate air chambers (7) enclosed by flexible, flat material (8) and having flexible bars (9) in the interior thereof for stabilizing an external shape of the air chambers (7). The structure is characterized in that the air chambers (7) form a wall structure (4) in the inflated state. By means of such a wall structure (4)—preferably in conjunction with a corresponding ceiling structure (16)—lightweight berths (1), particularly for aircraft crew, flight passengers, or transported injured persons, can be set up quickly and simply.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2008Publication date: June 10, 2010Applicant: LANTAL TEXTILESInventors: Roland Von Ballmoos, Laszlo Kerekes, Dragan Radanovic, Andreas Gühmann, Iris Suter
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Patent number: 7640698Abstract: An emergency vehicle shelter designed for women, senior citizens, and/or individuals with limited disabilities in mind; including an inflatable unit configured for nested engagement with a vehicle for covering the vehicle's upper and outer surfaces. The unit may be inflated by a remotely activated inflation unit. Provision is made in the unit member to allow a vehicle operator to reenter the vehicle for shelter from inclement weather.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2007Date of Patent: January 5, 2010Inventor: Sandra Graham
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Patent number: 7603823Abstract: A wall panel 100 has an elongate hollow body portion 102 having a storage cavity 103 provided therein for retaining water. The body portion 102 has a rectangular cross-section defined by an inner wall 104 and an outer wall 106 held in spaced apart relation by two side walls 108a and 108b. Each side wall 108 is adapted to be joined to the side wall 108 of an adjacent wall panel 100? so as to form a wall tank 110 for a building. Each wall panel 100 thus forms a structural component of the wall 110, which is sufficiently strong to support a roof structure 112 thereon. The side walls 108 are provided with an opening 120 therein, adapted to align with a matching opening 120? in the side wall 108? of an adjacent wall panel 100?, to permit the communication of water from the cavity 103 in one wall panel to the cavity 103? in the adjacent wall panel. The storage cavity 103 is bounded at the top by a lid 132 and at the bottom by a base tray 130.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2005Date of Patent: October 20, 2009Assignee: Superwall Systems Pty. Ltd.Inventor: Robert John Buckingham Cann
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Publication number: 20090217598Abstract: The invention concerns a building with inflatable walls (3), in particular a residential building, a hotel, an office or a hospital, consisting of modules of individual components (1) each having a rigid floor assembly (2) whereon the inflatable walls (3) are fixed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2005Publication date: September 3, 2009Inventor: Max Michael Schlereth
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Publication number: 20090049757Abstract: A sandwich beam including in one example first and second spaced walls, a core configured to maintain a predetermined spacing between the walls when the core is filled with pressurized gas and to resist shear when the beam is loaded in bending and a port for filling the core with gas biasing both walls in tension. The tension tends to increase in the second wall and decrease and cause a compression load in the first wall in response to a sufficiently large applied bending load. A compression element is fixed only with respect to the first wall and is configured (a) to support the compression load so that the beam is stronger at a given gas pressure and (b) to flex sufficiently to allow the beam to be rolled up when the gas is emptied from the core via the port.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2008Publication date: February 26, 2009Inventor: Steven D. Potter
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Patent number: 7467496Abstract: A flexible connection joint for inflatable structures such as life rafts, evacuation slides, and the like, includes a flexible connection member to join walls of the inflatable structure together. The flexible connection member includes first and second strip portions that are bonded together at one end to from three legs that can be joined to two or three walls of the structure or to other connecting elements or strips. In this manner, a tensile force acting on at least one of the walls of the structure causes generation of shear forces between the flexible legs and walls to thereby resist their separation.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 23, 2008Assignee: Air Cruisers CompanyInventors: Bruno Cuisset, Frank J. Brown, Alexandre Targiroff, Stanley J. Pawlowski, Jr.
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Patent number: 7185851Abstract: An inflatable structure constructed of flexible material that can occupy a minimal volume when in a deflated and stored condition as compared to its fully inflated and deployed configuration, has sufficient structural rigidity to function as a wing when deployed. The wing includes an array of inflatable chambers with generally circular cross-sections. The chambers are spaced a particular distance between their centers and held in that spacing by an outer wing skin. For equal cross-sectional diameter chambers this distance is less than the diameter. When the chambers are inflated the close spacing causes tension in the opposing surfaces to create a rigid structure.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2004Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Assignee: Raytheon Co.Inventor: Daryl B. Elam
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Patent number: 7089703Abstract: An erectable play structure for children including one or more enclosures or pods (10, 11, 12) which may be interconnected by one or more access tunnels (14) the whole structure being formed predominantly from a non-self supporting material thus to be collapsible for storage and adapted to be connected to an air pump (18) whereby the internal pressure within the structure may be slightly in excess of ambient pressure thus to maintain the structure in an erect condition. One or more access ports (15, 16) and/or blanking plates (17) may be provided in each enclosure to allow or prevent access to or exit from the enclosure. The access ports (16) are constructed such that after passage there through they resume a closed condition to resist escape of air therethrough. Hook and loop fasteners or the like are used to attach the enclosures, tunnels and access ports together in assembly of the structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2002Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Assignee: Finecard International LimitedInventor: Anthony Paul Brereton
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Patent number: 7043880Abstract: The invention provides methods, systems, and devices for installing thermal barriers in openings or gaps in or between structures such as walls, ceilings, and floors. At least one thermal barrier molding bag is positioned in the hole or gap, and a flowable firestop material that is operative to cure or harden, such as a hydratable cementitious slurry, is introduced into the bag to mold a barrier in the hole or gap.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2003Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn.Inventors: Michael D. Morgan, Xiudong Sun, Laura A. Tennenhouse, Robert A. Wiercinski, Benita Dair, Antonio J. Aldykiewicz, Jr., Leon Bablouzian, Lawrence Shapiro, William J. Hurley, Jr.
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Patent number: 6860069Abstract: A building component for forming a roof. The component includes an ETFE foil cushion comprising sheets of ETFE foil which are held in a frame about their periphery, and which are inflated. The cushion includes a liquid retaining means to suppress rain noise.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2003Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Inventor: Benedict George Morris
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Patent number: 6851224Abstract: Described is a covering element for buildings comprising at least one, preferably fixedly arranged support apparatus and at least one film pillow that displays two outer film layers, between which is formed at least one hollow space closed in a gastight manner and containing gas, especially air, and displays a fastening section in which the two outer film layers are connected to each other and by which section the film pillow is anchored to the support apparatus. The special aspect of this covering element for buildings consists in the fact that at least one thermally insulating element is arranged in the fastening section of the film pillow and in the fact that the two outer film layers are spaced apart from each other by the thermally insulating element and thereby rest upon the latter.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2003Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: Foiltec Verarbeitung von Folien und Textilien GmbHInventor: Stefan Lehnert
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Patent number: 6851259Abstract: An inflatable structure includes a plurality of inflation cells each have a respective internal gas generator connected to an external control processor for sequential inflation of the inflatable structure. Power and control lines feed through the inflation cells for powering the internal gas generator and for communicating control signals between the gas generators and the external control processor. A method of sequence inflation can use various types of exemplar gas generators, such as cellular containment evaporation gas generators and laser ablation gas generators.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2002Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: The Aerospace CorporationInventors: Edward J. Simburger, Henry Helvajian
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Patent number: 6823670Abstract: An inflatable structure includes a plurality of inflation cells each have a respective internal gas generator connected to an external control processor for sequential inflation of the inflatable structure. Power and control lines feed through the inflation cells for powering the internal gas generator and for communicating control signals between the gas generators and the external control processor. A method of sequence inflation can use various types of exemplar gas generators, such as cellular containment evaporation gas generators and laser ablation gas generators.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2002Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: The Aerospace CorporationInventors: Edward J. Simburger, Siegfried W. Janson, Henry Helvajian
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Patent number: 6817176Abstract: An inflatable structure includes a plurality of inflation cells each have a respective internal gas generator connected to an external control processor for sequential inflation of the inflatable structure. Power and control lines feed through the inflation cells for powering the internal gas generator and for communicating control signals between the gas generators and the external control processor. A method of sequence inflation can use various types of exemplar gas generators, such as cellular containment evaporation gas generators and laser ablation gas generators.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2002Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: The Aerospace CorporationInventor: Edward J. Simburger
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Publication number: 20030208963Abstract: A building component for forming a roof. The component includes an ETFE foil cushion comprising sheets of ETFE foil which are held in a frame about their periphery, and which are inflated. The frame includes a release mechanism for releasing the cushion from the frame, for example, in the event of a fire.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2003Publication date: November 13, 2003Inventor: Benedict George Morris
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Patent number: 6584732Abstract: An inflatable object includes interior attachment points to opposing interior faces of the object and rope or cord connections between these attachment points. The opposing walls have interior faces which include attachment points adapted to be connected together by predetermined lengths of material, the arrangement being such that upon inflation of the device, the walls are held in position relative to one another by the lengths of material. The connection material between the inner and outer panels is a flexible cord-like material. However any appropriate material may be used. The attachment points are located on webbing strips attached to the interior face of each wall at a seam, provided with eyelets. In the preferred embodiment, the cords are maintained at an angle substantially or averaging substantially 90 degrees from the inner and outer surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2001Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: Inflatable Image Technologies Pty. LimitedInventors: Chris Kinglsey Miller, Tom Zayit
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Patent number: 6497074Abstract: A lightweight building construction system comprising multiple similar stressed roof and wall paneling modules (22, 122) assembled together to form a modular building envelope. Each roof module (22, 122) typically includes a double-skin panel (1,4/101) having structurally interacting inner and outer layers (4,3/104,103) joined together at mid-span and stretched in a V-shaped configuration between spaced-apart structural elements (9, 109). A linear gutter (2) can hang from the double-skin panel (22) at the junction of the inner and outer layers (4,3) thereof to drain water, thereby preventing ponding problems. The stressed paneling modules (22) may be supported by lightweight non-rigid tensely arched members (15, 16).Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2001Date of Patent: December 24, 2002Assignee: Sunarc Structures Inc.Inventor: Richard C. Nelson
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Patent number: 6453619Abstract: A canopy which can be inflated, deployed and retracted by inflation and deflation, respectively. The canopy includes a plurality of beams arranged side by side, an apparatus for supplying the inflatable beams with pressurized fluid, an apparatus for sliding the beams along a rigid beam and at least one orifice made in the wall of the rigid beam placing the apparatus for supplying pressurized-fluid-supply in communication with the inner space of the inflatable beams. The canopy also includes an apparatus for successive positioning of the inner space of each inflatable beam opposite the orifice of the rigid beam to guarantee inflation of the beams by the pressurized fluid from the upper beam to the lower beam and their deflation from the lower beam to the upper beam.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2000Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Assignee: Spironef TechnologiesInventor: Guy Robert Delamare
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Patent number: 6453840Abstract: An inflatable device having a safety system provided by having at least two separate and distinct independently inflatable bladders contained within the outer shell of the device. Each of the bladders is designed when fully inflated to fully inflate the shell, but during use one of the bladders is not fully inflated and has a projected area of no greater than 50% of the projected area of the inflated shell.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2001Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Assignee: Mustang Survival Corp.Inventors: Paul Higginbotham, Ping Yin Sheu
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Patent number: 6438900Abstract: Apparatus primarily for the storage of a motor vehicle comprises a base sheet, an inner cover sheet defining in combination with the base sheet a storage chamber and an outer cover sheet substantially wholly overlying the inner cover sheet. The inner and outer cover sheets are joined together around their peripheral edges and are at least partially releasable from the base sheet, so as to give access to the interior of the storage chamber. At least one fan assembly is provided to drive air from the external ambient into the storage chamber so as to inflate it and air is allowed slowly to leak out of that chamber, into the space between the inner and outer cover sheets and, and then to the external ambient. In this way, the space between the inner and outer cover sheets is inflated by air bleeding from the storage chamber into that space.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2000Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Inventor: George Page
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Patent number: 6363661Abstract: A cover for protecting a mound of particulate material in outside storage from the effects of weather elements includes a flexible double-ply canvas having a top layer affixed to a bottom layer. The cover includes a plurality of individual bladders disposed between the top and bottom layers of the canvas, the bladders being spaced apart from and parallel to each other. Each bladder is connected to a next adjacent bladder with a flexible conduit. The cover further includes a plurality of inlet conduits coupled to respective bladders for filling selected bladders with water. Pressure-actuated check valves disposed in each flexible conduit between bladders allows water to flow from an upstream bladder into respective downstream bladders. Each bladder includes a discharge conduit for selectively draining each bladder. A plurality of straps and knobs are fixedly attached to the canvas such that the canvas may be folded and secured in a desired configuration when respective bladders do not contain water.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2000Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Inventor: Preston D. Myers
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Publication number: 20020023390Abstract: An inflatable temporary work shelter. In one embodiment, the shelter has an inflatable framework and a covering material. In a second embodiment the shelter could be formed of inflatable panels. The shelter includes a spine formed between two separate bearing frame members which, on inflation, contact each other. When inflated, for example, from a position beneath a structure such as an aeroplane wing suspending an engine pod by a pylon, the shelter will initially impinge against the engine pod and because the shelter is not fully inflated the spine will open and allow the shelter to continue to rise until fully inflated when the spine will be light on the pylon and the shelter will contain the engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2001Publication date: February 28, 2002Inventor: Ian Gerard Nagle
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Patent number: 6298607Abstract: A venting-membrane system for mitigating blast pressure generated from a blast force on a wall structure. The venting-membrane system having a framework including a plurality of parallel structural members defining a wall structure having an interior surface and an exterior surface. At least one inflatable enclosure attached to the interior surface of the wall; and at least one inflatable enclosure attached to the exterior surface of the wall wherein the at least one inflatable enclosure attached to the interior surface of the wall is in communication with the at least one inflatable enclosure attached to the exterior surface of the wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1999Date of Patent: October 9, 2001Assignee: The University of ToledoInventors: Naser Mostaghel, Jiwan D. Gupta
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Patent number: 6296580Abstract: Paint-ball playing fields are characterized by empty envelope elements fastened together creating a continuous interior volume filled with air, under a predetermined pressure of approximately 1.5 bars. A motor furnishes air to compensate for losses of pressure in the elements of the field.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1999Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: Laurent HametInventor: Laurent Hamet
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Patent number: 6282843Abstract: A pneumatic structure in the form of a barrel roof which has openings at the opposite ends thereof includes outer and inner walls of a sheet or membrane material connected by a plurality of partition walls in the form of ribs provided therebetween to define a plurality of air compartments in the form of ribs between the outer and inner walls. The partition walls includes a plurality of openings for fluid communication between adjacent air compartments. The pneumatic structure has specific dimensions defined as follows. 1.20≦b/a≦1.35 1.10≦d/c≦1.35 0.2≦a/c≦0.5 where a: the maximum opening width of the pneumatic structure; b: the total width of the pneumatic structure; c: the effective height (between ground and the maximum height of the inner wall; and d: the total height (between ground and the maximum height of the outer wall.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2000Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Assignee: Teijin LimitedInventors: Hajime Shibaike, Hiroshi Aoyagi, Isamu Saika, Yoshifusa Sekiya, Koji Sato, Toshiak Hisada