초록 ▼

The deployable flexible airlock and method for space vehicles, modules, and other structures has a flexible conduit attached between a vehicle frame member and a distal frame member. The airlock may be integrated into the hatch of a space vehicle. In the stowed configuration the airlock occupies a s

The deployable flexible airlock and method for space vehicles, modules, and other structures has a flexible conduit attached between a vehicle frame member and a distal frame member. The airlock may be integrated into the hatch of a space vehicle. In the stowed configuration the airlock occupies a small volume to minimize the usable space impact to the space vehicle. The airlock is deployed by introducing vehicle cabin air into a number of support columns or tubes, which thereby inflate and cause the distal frame member to be pushed away from the vehicle frame member. When deployed, a chamber is formed for a user to transition through the airlock. The airlock is pressurized using cabin air and depressurized by evacuating the cabin air. Retraction of the airlock for stowage is accomplished by use of cables attached to the distal frame member, and controlled by actuator assemblies attached to the vehicle frame member.

대표청구항 ▼

1. An airlock structure system for use in egress and ingress of space vehicles, modules and structures comprising:a first frame member attachable to an access hatch of a vehicle; a flexible inflatable material attached to said first frame member; a second frame member attached to said flexible infla

1. An airlock structure system for use in egress and ingress of space vehicles, modules and structures comprising:a first frame member attachable to an access hatch of a vehicle; a flexible inflatable material attached to said first frame member; a second frame member attached to said flexible inflatable material; said frame members and said material being configured for forming a conduit chamber whereby said second frame member is distal from said first frame member; an environmental access hatch integral with said second frame member; a plurality of flexible inflatable members attached to said first frame member and said second frame member for providing, upon inflation, inflatable support column members for said conduit chamber; apparatus positioned for inflating said inflatable support column members and said flexible inflatable material for forming and deploying said conduit chamber; and a retracting system for retracting said second frame member and thereby said flexible inflatable members, said flexible inflatable material and said second frame member for stowage.