초록 ▼

A geodesic inflatable structure having a lattice-like support framework defined by a multiplicity of inflatable tubular ribs. Triangular frame sections defined by the ribs each support one of a multiplicity of inflatable panels having inner and outer plies defining an inflation chamber therein. When

A geodesic inflatable structure having a lattice-like support framework defined by a multiplicity of inflatable tubular ribs. Triangular frame sections defined by the ribs each support one of a multiplicity of inflatable panels having inner and outer plies defining an inflation chamber therein. When inflated with pressurized air or another inflation substance, the inflatable ribs and panels form a geodesic dome structure.

대표청구항 ▼

An inflatable structure, comprising: a plurality of inflatable rib members arranged in a lattice-like framework; a plurality of inflatable panel members, each said panel member being supported within a frame section defined by a plurality of said inflatable rib members; valve means communicating wit

An inflatable structure, comprising: a plurality of inflatable rib members arranged in a lattice-like framework; a plurality of inflatable panel members, each said panel member being supported within a frame section defined by a plurality of said inflatable rib members; valve means communicating with said rib members and said panel members for supplying a substance under pressure to inflation chambers defined within said rib members and said panel members; and said inflatable structure being dome-shaped in its inflate state; each said frame section supporting each said panel member is defined by three of said inflatable rib members arranged in a substantially equilateral triangle configuration; and said inflatable structure has a geodesic dome shape in its inflated state; each said rib member is substantially tubular; and each said panel member is formed of at least an inner and an outer ply of material having said inflation chamber defined therebetween; said panel members are affixed to said rib members by seam portions; and conduits are provided in said seam portions to permit communication between said inflation chambers of said rib members and said inflation chambers of said panel members; said plurality of inflatable rib members have the inflation chambers thereof intercommunicating so as to define a plurality of inflation sections of said inflatable structure; and each said inflation section of said inflatable structure is provided with at least one said valve means; each said substantially tubular rib member is formed with a central ply of material extending transversely therethrough; each said panel member is formed with a central ply of material extending transversely therethrough in substantially coplanar relation to said central ply of said rib members; and said central plies are provided with perforations to permit flow of said substance under pressure therethrough; and an external ply of material extends over at least a plurality of said frame sections.