Abstract: A power cell for lifting masses by inflation of the cell by a gaseous or liquid medium, the cell being hollow and, in the pressure-free state, substantially a single plane. The cell includes two parallel polygonal surfaces, preferably squares, invariant in shape, interconnected by wall segments which vary in shape as the cell is inflated, the side wall segments forming partial cylindrical surfaces. The side wall segments and the polygonal surfaces are joined by transition wall surfaces to form a closed body. Various embodiments of the transition wall surfaces forming corner segments, are disclosed, wherein, in the pressure-free state of the cell, the extensions of the peripheries of adjoining side wall segments may intersect substantially rectilinearly, in a convex arc, in a concave arc, or in an obtuse angle.

Abstract: An improved inflatable bladder for use in force transmission apparatus comprises a pair of flexible sheets peripherally joined together, one of such sheets having therein an opening for admission to and discharge from between the sheets of an inflating fluid, the periphery of the sheets having a contour which is at least in part concave toward the bladder center.

Abstract: Pressure responsive force transmission apparatus such as may be used in automatic controls and for hydraulic and pneumatic lift or force mechanisms comprises a pair of substantially rigid lift elements each having a base plate, at least two guide arms projecting from the base plate, and at least two guide surfaces at the sides of the base plate. The pair of lift elements is mated together each with its guide arms engaging the guide surfaces of the other. A flexible inflatable bladder is disposed between the base plates of the mated lift elements. One of the lift elements is formed with a fluid transmission passage communicating with the interior of the bladder. By delivering fluid under pressure through said passage, the bladder is inflated and causes the lift elements to move apart.