Abstract: A deployable fairing for a transport vehicle comprises a flexible, internally pressurizable enclosure supported by a structural frame. The structural frame comprises a plurality of rigid structural members forming at least two subframes that are pivotally coupled to one another and is foldably movable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The enclosure moves with the structural frame, unfolds when the structural frame moves into the expanded configuration and folds in upon itself when the structural frame moves into the collapsed configuration. Moving the structural frame into the expanded configuration develops tension on at least part of the outer surface of the enclosure, and movement of the structural frame into the collapsed configuration releases the tension. When the enclosure is internally pressurized while the structural frame is in the expanded configuration, the outer surface of the enclosure is structurally stiff and conforms to a predefined aerodynamic shape.

Abstract: Provided in this disclosure is a portable night vision tunnel for operating a vehicle in a simulated night environment. The night vision tunnel is formed by assembling a plurality of modules on a driving surface to provide a darkened interior in which the vehicle can be driven. Each of the modules are formed of inflatable arch components each having a light-absorptive interior surface for creating the simulated night environment for operating the vehicle. A fastener arrangement connects each of the arch components to an adjoining one to form a single module. The tunnel includes a portal formed on an able arch component at a respective module proximate to the end of the tunnel. The portal admits the vehicle into the tunnel while maintaining the simulated night environment for operating the vehicle. An air circulation system ventilates and circulates air within an interior space of the tunnel.

Abstract: Non-durable self-supporting flexible containers with easily variable sizing. Line ups of flexible containers have similar sizes, shapes, and constructions, but hold differing amounts of fluent product at unexpected fill heights.

Abstract: [Summary] A shell element that can be formed simply and in a short time, a shell structure using the shell element, and a structure forming set that can form the shell element simply and in a short time are provided. Resin material is foamed on the inside of thin film, a foamed material portion with bubbles being mixed is in the state of being sandwiched by the thin film and a solid layer, and tensional stress is applied to the thin film and the solid layer and compressive stress is applied to the foamed material portion, thus the shell element is difficult to be cracked or split, and the shell structure is formed by the shell element. And, the shell structure forming set forms the shell structure easily.

Abstract: A locking device for a covering member to provide sealing in storage, cargo, and other personal applications is disclosed. The locking device comprises a pipe member having predetermined length is configured to have a transverse opening. The covering member is slidably attached to a bead insert positioned inside the pipe member via the transverse opening, wherein the covering member is configured to securely wrap the contents of a storage space. The locking device is configured to enable a climate controlled environment for the wrapped contents of the storage space. A locking assembly and method of using the same is also disclosed.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A shelter assembly has a framework having a plurality of structural supports that include fillable support tubes and support sleeves. The fillable support tubes may be filled with fill media and are surrounded by the support sleeve. The structural supports are configured to form a structure wherein the structural supports form the framework of the structure. Various fill media may be used. The structural supports and their associated assemblies are modular and may be configured into a variety of shelter designs.

Abstract: An apparatus for connecting an attachment and an air beam comprising a hug strap attached to a hug strap pad, the hug strap adapted to connect with the attachment, and the hug strap pad adapted to attach to the air beam. A method of securing an attachment to an air beam comprising providing an air beam, attaching a hug strap to a hug strap pad, securing the hug strap pad (with the hug strap attached) to the air beam, and securing the attachment to the hug strap.

Abstract: A single wall airbeam constructed of a single layer material including a core of polyester fabric having a coating of adhesive on each surface of the polyester layer. A thin polyester film is applied to one of the adhesive layers. First and second polyurethane layers are applied to the other adhesive layer. The first polyurethane layer is a thicker, higher melt point polyurethane layer that may or may not be coated in a fire retardant material. The second polyurethane layer is a thinner, polyurethane layer having a lower melting point. An airbeam is constructed using one or more pieces of the fabric and heat sealing or welding the one or more polyurethane layers of fabric at seams, when the one or more layers are placed in a confronting position.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A transportable large capacity theatre includes a primary theatre body with laterally spaced apart first and second long sides, opposing first and second ends attached to the long sides, and a roof over the long sides and ends, the body defining an enclosed interior chamber. The roof, the long sides and the ends may be defined by a plurality of laterally extending inflated tubes, and the long sides of the primary theatre body may have a substantially vertical orientation relative to a surface on which theatre may be supported for at least a major portion of the height of the respective long sides. The theatre further includes a seating section, a display screen positioned in the interior of the primary theatre body and viewable by a viewer seated in the seating section, and a projection system in the interior of the primary theatre body and in communication with the screen.

Abstract: A bending mechanism for an airbeam is located inside an outer member that defines the airbeam. The outer member creates an air containing region. A bending element defines a bending region and to which is attached two opposing portions of the inner surface of the outer member. The bending component defines two air containing regions in the airbeam and includes an air conducting path that is disposed within the bending region. The air conducting path is fluidly connected to the air containing regions on both sides of the bending region and is configured for allowing the airbeam to be bent and arranged in two planes at the bending region while allowing air to be inserted into the airbeam at one inflation point. Therefore, the air-conducting member allows air to flow from one air containing region to another air containing region on opposite sides of the bending region.

Abstract: A rapidly-deployable fire shelter is described herein. Specifically, the fire shelter is equipped with one or more actuators that enable the fire shelter to be rapidly deployed thereby providing a quick and effective mechanism for protecting items or people from fire, smoke, and the other fire-related hazards. The fire shelter may include a protective barrier that is extended upon activation of the one or more actuators.

Abstract: An inflatable, lightweight shielded enclosure that includes one or more inflatable, lightweight shielded beams arranged to support a shielded material, and an inflatable, lightweight shielded connection system for connection to a control system is provided along with related methods. The enclosure may have a weight of approximately twenty-one pounds, and provide an attenuation of 70 dB to 80 dB for a 1 GHz signal.

Abstract: The present invention relates a refuge used in underground mines, and more particularly to a type of isolated refuge cabin used in underground mines, including the supporting airbag (1), the body shell (2) equipped outside the supporting air bag (1), a breathable air supplier (4) and an air inflation device (3); the air outlet (5) of the air inflation device (3) is linked with an air outlet (7) of the supporting air bag (1) through an air supply passage (6); the air inlet (8) of the breathable air supplier (4) is connected to the interior cavity of the body shell (2) through an air intake passage (9); the air outlet (10) of the breathable air supplier (4) is linked with the lower part of the interior cavity of the body shell (2) through the air outlet passage (11); the breathable air supplier (4) includes a shell (12), the oxygen generating agent (13) equipped inside the shell (12); the emergency exit (14) is installed on the body shell (2).

Abstract: The invention relates to a pneumatic support (1) which can be folded together as a result of joints (10) in the pressure member (3) and has a flexible web (12) that is connected to the tractive member (4) over the entire length of the latter and is connected to the pressure member (3) only in the region of the joints of said member (10). This allows the joints (10) to be fixed in such a way that the pressure member (3) does not buckle at the site of the joints and thus remains stable.

Abstract: A pneumatic frame for textiles of control at of light used in the film industry or images capture with the object to reflect, block, filter, blur and make any use of light and have optimum control of it at the time of capturing the image. The pneumatic frame comprises a hose inflatable structure of at least twelve pieces with threads that allow its assembly, tucks vulcanized along its entire periphery which allow the passage of an elastic which is intertwined with the stitched slit, secured by hang setbolt devices along its entire periphery, as well as external gripping devices of type-setbolt screw pins.

Abstract: A deployable and inflatable roof, wall, or other structure has first and second covers made of flexible panels and cables arranged from edge to edge along the covers. Couplings along the edges of the covers connect the structure to supports, such as rails on which the structure can deploy and other supports of a building. Air from blowers blow air in between the covers to inflate the structure like an air cushion. In addition to cables, lateral support for the structure can use struts disposed edge to edge along the covers. Traction or rack and pinion drive mechanisms or cable drive systems can be used to deploy and retract the structure along the rails to cover or open a rooftop or other opening or area of the building.

Abstract: An inflatable blast proof structure in a pack proposed. The structure can easily be transported to a remote site. Air compressors can inflate the pack. The structures can be in different shapes. One of those shapes used is hexagon. Individual structures can be connected together to create a greater structure complex.

Abstract: A system and method for primarily erecting curvilinear buildings using a plurality of interconnected structural tubes/sandwich panels is provided. Fabricating structural tubing comprises: connecting a fibrous and flexible lining to an inner surface of a flexible outer membrane, wherein the lining is saturated in a curable material that forms into a solid foam material when cured; and curing the curable material. Fabricating a sandwich panel comprises: connecting a first fibrous and flexible lining to an inner surface of a first flexible outer membrane, wherein the first lining is saturated in a curable material that forms into a solid foam when cured; connecting a second fibrous and flexible lining to an inner surface of a second flexible outer membrane, wherein the second lining is saturated in a curable material that forms into a solid foam when cured; and curing the curable material of the first lining and second linings.

Abstract: A structure which is transformable by inflation from a collapsed condition for storage to an erect condition for use has an inflatable tubular framework and at least one flexible web attached to and extending between two or more regions of the framework. The inflatable framework is formed by at least one inner inflatable tubular element (A, B) of flexible, elastic, air-impermeable material and having an inflation valve (13,15) accommodated within an outer sleeve arrangement of a material which is flexible but substantially non-elastic and restrained therein upon inflation. The outer sleeve arrangement is configured to include at least one branch point and/or at least one abrupt bend and the configuration of the inner tubular element or elements (A, B) corresponds to that (branch points (a, b) and abrupt bends (z)) so that the inner tube or tubes will substantially fill the outer sleeve arrangement upon inflation.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A transportable large capacity theatre includes a primary theatre body with laterally spaced apart first and second long sides, opposing first and second ends attached to the long sides, and a roof over the long sides and ends, the body defining an enclosed interior chamber. The roof, the long sides and the ends may be defined by a plurality of laterally extending inflated tubes, and the long sides of the primary theatre body may have a substantially vertical orientation relative to a surface on which theatre may be supported for at least a major portion of the height of the respective long sides. The theatre further includes a seating section, a display screen positioned in the interior of the primary theatre body and viewable by a viewer seated in the seating section, and a projection system in the interior of the primary theatre body and in communication with the screen.

Abstract: A shelter assembly has a frame having a plurality of fillable support members, each having a hollow portion for receiving a filling material. The support members are configured to form a structure wherein the support members form walls of the structure. The shelter assembly has a plurality of columns which form corner posts of a structure and a plurality of walls which are removably attached to a pair of adjacent columns. The walls have support members to which at least one panel is attached. The support members are secured to a pair of adjacent columns via fasteners. An upper portion forms a roof of the structure wherein the columns are attached to coupling members of the upper portion.

Abstract: An inflatable enclosure and a method for erecting the inflatable enclosure are provided. The inflatable enclosure comprises an inflatable middle section and inflatable end sections abutting opposing ends of the inflatable middle section to enclose a space. Each of the inflatable middle section and the inflatable end sections comprises an inflatable structural framework. The inflatable structural framework comprises a network of pneumatically interconnected inflated beams that defines one or more openings of predetermined shapes in the inflatable structural framework. The inflatable enclosure comprises multiple tile members that are inserted in the openings in the inflatable structural framework. The tile members are configured to plug and sealably encase the openings to form a contiguous structure with the pneumatically interconnected inflated beams, when inflated.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A structure which is transformable by inflation from a collapsed condition for storage to an erect condition for use has an inflatable tubular framework and at least one flexible web attached to and extending between two or more regions of the framework. The inflatable framework is formed by at least one inner inflatable tubular element (A, B) of flexible, elastic, air-impermeable material and having an inflation valve (13,15) accommodated within an outer sleeve arrangement of a material which is flexible but substantially non-elastic and restrained therein upon inflation. The outer sleeve arrangement is configured to include at least one branch point and/or at least one abrupt bend and the configuration of the inner tubular element or elements (A, B) corresponds to that (branch points (a, b) and abrupt bends (z)) so that the inner tube or tubes will substantially fill the outer sleeve arrangement upon inflation.

Abstract: An inflatable enclosure comprises a plurality of modular inflatable wall structures connected to one other, the inflatable wall structures comprising inflatable walls and supporting structures. An inflatable enclosure system comprises a plurality of modular inflatable wall structures, at least one entrance module, and fans connected to the inflatable wall structure of the inflatable enclosure.

Abstract: A portable changing room that is inflatable. The portable changing room includes an inflatable skeleton, a valve, and a removable cover. A pump is used to inflate the inflatable skeleton. The changing room is used for privacy in outdoor environments.

Abstract: The inflatable grain storage apparatus provides a truly portable inflatable and collapsible structure. The apparatus structure is fully integral. The apparatus is importantly bi-inflatable, whereby the reversible air pump air delivery and removal is via a Y with valve that provides for filling and emptying the spine and straight supports and also the structure interior separately or cumulatively. This hastens filling and ensures proper filling of the spine and straight supports without potential kinking or delays. The floor is importantly reinforced with bi-directional straps and is comprised of heavier material than are the above moisture and material proof components.

Abstract: A portable changing room that is inflatable. The portable changing room includes an inflatable skeleton, a valve, and a removable cover. A pump is used to inflate the inflatable skeleton. The changing room is used for privacy in outdoor environments.

Abstract: A reduced pressure treatment appliance is provided for enclosing and providing reduced pressure treatment to an object or a portion of an object. In some embodiments, the reduced pressure treatment appliance may be used to treat wounds and other conditions, such as lymphedema, varicose veins, venous insufficiency and stasis, and other infirmities. In other embodiments, the appliance may be used to provide reduced pressure (or vacuum) treatment for non-medical purposes. In some embodiments, the appliance comprises a flexible chamber and a collapsible frame that may be collapsed while the appliance is not in use. In yet other embodiments, the appliance also includes a vacuum system to supply reduced pressure to the volume within the chamber, a pressurized fluid system to inflate the collapsible frame, a drainage system to remove fluids from the appliance, and a treatment port and a forced entry treatment system to introduce fluids and other treatment instrumentalities into the volume within the chamber.

Abstract: A flexible, inflatable shelter is held within a storage container. The shelter can be erected rapidly, by directing compressed gas held or produced within the container, into the flexible material which will define the finished shelter. Personnel using the shelter then enter through an air lock door located in the storage container. An air lock may be alternatively provided such that is located at least partly within the deployed shelter, and so that it does not occupy substantial space in the container. The container includes supplies necessary to sustain life for an extended period. The shelter can be used to protect personnel from harmful environments caused by accidents or explosions in mines, tunnels, industrial plants, and the like. The container is compact, but allows rapid deployment of the flexible material to produce a shelter which is of approximately the same volume, or greater, than that of the storage container.

Abstract: Joint element for a pneumatic structural element (1) according to the prior art, comprising a sleeve (2), a compression member (3), two tension members (4) and two spherical caps (5). In each case one joint element is fitted for the spherical caps (5) such that an opening (10) accommodates the spherical cap (5). The joint elements serve for introducing tensile and compressive forces, in a manner free of bending moments, into the pneumatic structural element (1), the compressive forces being absorbed by the compression member (3) and the tensile forces being absorbed by the tension members (4). The joint element has holes (12) for fastening the compression member (3) with a screw (15), on the one hand, and holes (11) for accommodating the tension members (4), on the other hand.

Abstract: A portable set system comprising a plurality of interconnected inflatable tubular support segments defining a frame element for a set, wherein removable display panels are supportively held on the frame element for customized stage use. Preferably, a plurality of frame elements are utilized together to define a stage set, wherein inflatable tubular connector members serve to relate the inflatable tubular support segments together during use.

Abstract: A mobile building module comprises rigid load-bearing surface elements and one or more inflatable flexible surface elements connected therewith. In the transport condition, several of the load-bearing rigid surface elements are disposed to form a parallelepiped container having a floor and surrounding rigid walls for accommodating the inflatable flexible surface elements, with the height of the container being lower than the height of the building. A building, which is assembled of several partial modules, which are constructed according to the above-mentioned principles, is also an object of the invention.

Abstract: A construction object (a structure) that enables access to high altitudes.

Abstract: A freestanding space elevator tower for launching payloads, tourism, observation, scientific research and communications. The space elevator tower has a segmented elevator core structure, each segment being formed of at least one pneumatically pressurized cell. The pressure cells may be filled with air or another gas. Elevator cars may ascend or descend on the outer surface of the elevator core structure or in a shaft on the interior of the elevator core structure. A payload may be launched from a pod or deck at the upper end of the space elevator tower. The space elevator tower is stabilized by gyroscopic and active control machinery. The space elevator tower maintains a desired pressure level through gas compressor machinery. Methods of constructing the space elevator are also disclosed.

Abstract: An inflatable and rigidizable structure for use as a habitat or a load bearing structure is disclosed. The structure consists of an outer wall and an inner wall defining a containment member and a bladder. The bladder is pressurized to erect the structure from an initially collapsed state. The containment member is subsequently injected with rigidizable fluid through an arrangement of injection ports. Exhaust gases from the curing rigidizable fluid are vented through an arrangement of exhaust ports. The rate of erection can be controlled by frictional engagement with a container or by using a tether. A method for fabricating a tubular structure is disclosed.

Abstract: An inflatable air beam having a laceloop assembly affixed thereto, a structure utilizing same and a method of constructing a structure is provided. In the structure, the fabric is laced to a structural support, typically, an air beam to position and properly tension the fabric thereon. The laceloop assembly includes spaced apart adjacent laceloops that are interconnected to secure the fabric panel to the structural support. In practicing the method, the laceloops are passed through fabric panels and through adjacent laceloops to interconnect the adjacent laceloops and secure the fabric panels to the structural support.

Abstract: A portable climate controlled air shelter system on a transport device such as a trailer, truck bed or ISO container box with all sub-systems integral to the transport device where the sub systems include an inflatable air shelter with inflation/deflation blower, electrical power generator and fuel system pre-wired to all other sub systems, heating ventilation and air conditioning unit, air filtration, inflation/deflation blower, water management system, external lighting, central control panel for single point monitoring and control of the air shelter system and physical storage. Also provided are compressed air tanks for inflation of the air shelter as well as water ballast tubes that mechanically attach to the air shelter to provide stability in winds and on uneven ground. The water management system includes a water storage tank and pump for filling and emptying the water ballast tubes. The air shelter system also has transfer switch to allow the system to run on external “house power”.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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 wail panels being configured for being suspended from the support assembly.

Abstract: A pneumatically inflatable structure includes first and second parallel spaced apart pneumatic end support tubes and at least two opposed pairs of bowed criss-crossed pneumatic bracing tubes and an arched canopy extending over the support tubes and bracing tubes. Each of the end support tubes has first and second opposed ends each mountable to a base surface wherein each of the end support tubes forms a vertical arch having an apex when the structure is erect. The pneumatic bracing tubes have first and second ends wherein each of the first ends of the bracing tubes are secured to one of the first or second ends of one of the first or second end support tubes. Each of the second ends of the pneumatic bracing tubes are securable to substantially the apex or thereabouts of an opposed tube of the first or second end support tubes.

Abstract: A backpack (160) with an air frame (162). The backpack includes a storage compartment, an air frame (162), and at least one strap (168) for securing the bag to a person. The air frame (162) includes an air bladder, which stiffens as it is inflated. The air frame (162) may include portions that are individually inflatable, and a pump (26) may be included for inflating the air frame (162). The backpack (160) may include inflatable portions (22) designed to provide support to specific portions of a user's body.

Abstract: The disclosure depicts a high-strength yet lightweight material composed of interconnected struts that typically form a tetrahedral lattice structure.

Abstract: The invention relates to a publicity medium which is intended to be used during outdoor or indoor commercial, sporting or other types of events. The device includes flexible panels, the panels being stretched over and/or fixed to a support structure. The support structure has an assembly of tubes which are inflated at a relative pressure of between 0.15 and 0.8 bars.

Abstract: In an inflatable structure, comprising a first inflatable beam, upon inflation the first inflatable beam extends from a first point of ground contact at a first point along the perimeter of the structure to a first position at a first elevation, from the first position at the first elevation to a second position at a second elevation and from the second position at the second elevation to a second point of ground contact at a second point along the perimeter of the structure. A second inflatable beam is coupled to the first inflatable beam, and upon inflation the second inflatable beam extends from a third point of ground contact at a third point along the perimeter of the structure to a third position at a third elevation, from the third position at the third elevation to a fourth position at a fourth elevation and from the fourth position at the fourth elevation to a fourth point of ground contact at a fourth point along the perimeter of the structure.

Abstract: A patient cooling system comprises an inflatable patient mattress having an airflow system and integral manifold incorporated therein and a patient enclosure or tent coupled to the inflatable patient mattress and supported by a framework of inflatable tubes drawing air off of the same air supply used to supply the mattress and to thermally control the area in the tent. The framework of inflatable tubes is divided into left and right sections, which are further subdivided into lower body and upper body sections. An inflatable connector with a stem and protuberance is provided to secure the framework in a closed position. The patient-supporting mattress comprises a plurality of inflatable compartments extending transversely across the width of the mattress that can be alternately pressurized for pressure relief therapy. Air is recirculated from the area in the tent and the integral manifold through the airflow system and into a thermal control unit.