US20120131857A1 - Inflatable Enclosure - Google Patents

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. The inflatable middle section and the inflatable end sections are inflated, assembled, and anchored to a ground surface for spanning a predefined area on the ground surface.

Description

BACKGROUND
• Inflatable shelters, in general, provide temporary enclosures for indoor and outdoor sports, construction sites, commercial storage, and recreational purposes. Conventional inflatable shelters utilize complex rigid or inflatable support structures that are difficult to manufacture. For example, conventional inflatable shelters comprise fiberglass poles for support structures, which when bent into an arch provide a supporting framework for the exterior fabric skin or canopy of the shelter. Furthermore, conventional inflatable shelters are generally manufactured and assembled in such a way that once damaged, the entire shelter must be replaced. Another drawback of conventional inflatable shelters is that the support structures used for these shelters are only suitable for building shelters having smaller dimensions due to load constraints. The shelters may be erected as small units not larger than about 20 meters in width or diameter. When larger shelters having inflatable support structures are erected, the inflatable support structures may wrinkle, buckle and even collapse under snow or high wind loads. Current rigid or inflatable systems do not address the need for a relatively larger pneumatically inflatable structure that can withstand and support heavy loads, and that may be readily transportable in that, when collapsed or deflated, the structure is not exceedingly heavy or overly bulky.
• Hence, there is a long felt but unresolved need for an inflatable enclosure that can be easily erected to provide a shelter for different applications that require small to large shelter spans, and that provides a weather seal under outdoor conditions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended for determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
• The inflatable enclosure and the method for erecting the inflatable enclosure disclosed herein addresses the above stated need for providing a firm and stable inflatable shelter for different applications that require small to large shelter spans, and for providing a weather seal under outdoor conditions. The inflatable enclosure disclosed herein may be manufactured in smaller sections that are assembled to build a relatively larger pneumatically inflatable structure that can withstand and support heavy loads, and that may be easily transportable and maneuverable, when disassembled or collapsed.
• The inflatable enclosure disclosed herein comprises an inflatable middle section and one or more inflatable end sections abutting opposing ends of the inflatable middle section to enclose a space for which the enclosed space is desired, for example, a sports court, an exhibition, a conference, etc. 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. The network of pneumatically interconnected inflated beams defines one or more openings of predetermined shapes in the inflatable structural framework. The network of pneumatically interconnected inflated beams comprises one or more inflated longitudinal beams pneumatically interconnected with one or more inflated transverse beams to define the inflatable structural framework. Each of the longitudinal beams and the transverse beams defines an enclosed annular space for receiving a fluid, for example, air, to inflate each of the longitudinal beams and the transverse beams. The inflatable middle section and the inflatable end sections are assembled to create the inflatable enclosure. The inflatable middle section and the inflatable end sections of the inflatable enclosure are inflated and anchored to a ground surface for spanning or enclosing a predefined area on the ground surface. The inflatable middle section, when assembled and erected, is generally arcuate in shape. Each of the inflatable end sections also defines an end wall for the inflatable enclosure.
• The inflatable enclosure disclosed herein further comprises multiple tile members the dimensions of which are configured to allow the tile members to be inserted in the openings in the inflatable structural framework of each of the inflatable middle section and the inflatable end sections and to plug and sealably encase the openings when the tile members are inflated in the inflatable structural framework. Each of the tile members defines an enclosed annular space for receiving a fluid, for example, air, to inflate each of the tile members. The enclosed annular space within each of the tile members is inflated prior to, or inflated after insertion of the tile members into the openings in the inflatable structural framework to plug and sealably encase the openings in the inflatable structural framework. The tile members when inflated contiguously secure the tile members with the pneumatically interconnected inflated beams in the inflatable structural framework, to provide multidimensional structural strength and stability to the inflatable structural framework and to minimize deformation of the inflatable structural framework under load.
• Each of the tile members comprises an inflatable cell structure and an apron membrane. The apron membrane defines a periphery around the inflatable cell structure. The inflatable cell structure of each of the tile members comprises a multidimensional array of one or more inflatable air cells. The inflatable cell structure defines an enclosed annular space within each of the air cells of the inflatable cell structure for receiving a fluid, for example, air, to inflate the inflatable cell structure. The inflatable cell structure of each of the tile members is inserted in one or more of the openings in the inflatable structural framework to plug the openings. The enclosed annular space within each of the air cells of the inflatable cell structure of each of the tile members is inflated prior to insertion of the inflatable cell structure into the openings in the inflatable structural framework. In an embodiment, the inflatable cell structure of each of the tile members is inflated after insertion of the inflatable cell structure into the openings in the inflatable structural framework. The inflatable cell structure positioned within the openings of the inflatable structural framework provides multidimensional strength and stability to the inflatable structural framework, when inflated. In an embodiment, one or more of the tile members are opposably positioned within each of the openings in the inflatable structural framework to create an insulating weather seal for the inflatable enclosure.
• In an embodiment, one or more pneumatic sensors are operably connected to one or more of the pneumatically interconnected inflated beams of the inflatable structural framework for monitoring internal air pressure of the inflatable structural framework of the inflatable enclosure. A pneumatic pump, in communication with the pneumatic sensors, maintains a constant internal air pressure within the inflatable structural framework of the inflatable enclosure. In another embodiment, an outer membranous sheath is provided for enclosing the inflatable enclosure and the tile members for providing a smooth weatherproof finish to the inflatable enclosure.
• The weather resistant tile members securely inserted in the openings in the inflatable structural framework of the inflatable enclosure enable versatility of the inflatable enclosure for different weather conditions. Other advantages of the inflatable enclosure disclosed herein comprise, for example, rapid deployment, aerodynamically designed shape and structure for wind sheer, low opacity of the tile members to allow natural light inside the inflatable enclosure, etc.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, exemplary constructions of the invention are shown in the drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein.
• FIGS. 1A-1B exemplarily illustrate perspective views of an inflatable enclosure.
• FIG. 1C exemplarily illustrates a side orthogonal view of the inflatable enclosure.
• FIG. 2 exemplarily illustrates a front orthogonal view of the inflatable enclosure.
• FIG. 3 exemplarily illustrates a top view of the inflatable enclosure.
• FIG. 4 exemplarily illustrates a partial internal view of the inflatable enclosure.
• FIG. 5 exemplarily illustrates a partial view of an inflatable structural framework of the inflatable enclosure, showing positioning of a tile member in one of the openings of the inflatable structural framework.
• FIG. 6A exemplarily illustrates a cross sectional view of a deflated tile member of the inflatable enclosure.
• FIG. 6B exemplarily illustrates a bottom perspective view of an inflated tile member of the inflatable enclosure.
• FIG. 6C exemplarily illustrates a cross sectional view of the inflated tile member of the inflatable enclosure.
• FIG. 7 exemplarily illustrates a pneumatic system for maintaining internal air pressure of the inflatable structural framework of the inflatable enclosure.
• FIG. 8 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of the inflatable enclosure enveloped by an outer membranous sheath.
• FIGS. 9A-9B exemplarily illustrate partial views of the inflatable enclosure ofFIG. 8, showing an entryway in the middle section of the inflatable enclosure.
• FIG. 10 illustrates a method for erecting the inflatable enclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
• FIGS. 1A-1B exemplarily illustrate perspective views of aninflatable enclosure100. Theinflatable enclosure100 disclosed herein is a temporary airframe enclosure erected on aground surface108 for different applications and activities such as living, entertainment, sports, manufacturing, storage, recreation, etc. As exemplarily illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1B, theinflatable enclosure100 comprises an inflatablemiddle section102 and one or moreinflatable end sections101 and103 abutting opposing ends102aand102bof the inflatablemiddle section102 to enclose aspace401 for which theinflatable enclosure100 is designed for, for example, a sports court, an exhibition, etc., as exemplarily illustrated inFIG. 4. The inflatablemiddle section102 is generally arcuate in shape. Each of the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 comprises an inflatablestructural framework104. The inflatablestructural framework104 comprises a network of pneumatically interconnectedinflated beams104aand104b.The network of pneumatically interconnectedinflated beams104aand104bdefines one ormore openings104cof predetermined shapes, for example, rectangular shapes, square shapes, etc., in the inflatablestructural framework104. Each of thebeams104aand104bdefines an enclosed annular space (not shown) for receiving a fluid, for example, air, to inflate each of thebeams104aand104b.The enclosed annular space of each of thebeams104aand104bis inflated, for example, by compressed air through a one-way valve in communication with the enclosed annular space, which is well known in the art.
• As exemplarily illustrated inFIG. 1A, theinflatable enclosure100 further comprisesmultiple tile members105 the dimensions of which generally match the inner dimensions of theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 of each of the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 when thetile members105 are inflated. Each of thetile members105 defines an enclosedannular space105dfor receiving a fluid, for example, air, to inflate each of thetile members105 as exemplarily illustrated inFIGS. 6A-6C. The enclosedannular space105dof each of thetile members105 is inflated prior to insertion of thetile members105 into theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104. In an embodiment, thetile members105 are positioned in theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 and thereafter inflated to plug and sealably encase theopenings104cto form a contiguous structure with the pneumatically interconnectedinflated beams104aand104bin the inflatablestructural framework104 to provide multidimensional structural strength and stability to the inflatablestructural framework104 and to minimize deformation of the inflatablestructural framework104 under load. Thetile members105, when inserted in theopenings104c,provide structural support for maintaining the shape of the inflatablestructural framework104, and hence the shape of theinflatable enclosure100. Thetile member105 is constructed, for example, of a ceramic, a plastic such as a high density polyethylene, etc.
• FIG. 1C exemplarily illustrates a side orthogonal view of theinflatable enclosure100. Theinflatable enclosure100, when assembled and erected, is generally arcuate in shape. Each of theinflatable end sections101 and103 also defines anend wall106 for theinflatable enclosure100. Theinflatable enclosure100 is accessible through one ormore entryways107.
• FIG. 2 exemplarily illustrates a front orthogonal view of theinflatable enclosure100. The network of pneumatically interconnectedinflated beams104aand104bcomprises one or more inflatedlongitudinal beams104bpneumatically interconnected with one or more inflatedtransverse beams104ato define the inflatablestructural framework104. As used herein, pneumatic interconnection of the inflatedlongitudinal beams104band the inflatedtransverse beams104arefers to a fluid tight sealing of the inflatedlongitudinal beams104band the inflatedtransverse beams104ato create a network or grid of theinflated beams104aand104b,where theinflated beams104aand104bof the inflatablestructural framework104 of each of the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 are in fluid communication with each other. Theinflated beams104aand104bare, for example, sealed tubes made from airtight materials and stiffened by internal air pressure, and are pneumatically interconnected to form a network or grid ofinflated beams104aand104b.Theinflated beams104aand104bare manufactured from an easy to assemble and durable plastic, for example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
• FIG. 3 exemplarily illustrates a top view of theinflatable enclosure100. As exemplarily illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1C andFIGS. 2-3, theinflatable enclosure100 incorporates an aerodynamic design and structure to minimize wind sheer and provide stability, and also to provide ease of manufacture and use. For example, the inflatedlongitudinal beams104bof theend wall106 defined by each of theinflatable end sections101 and103 also serve as buttresses to stabilize the structure of theinflatable enclosure100, thereby eliminating the need for cross bracing of the inflatablestructural framework104. Theinflatable enclosure100 also definescurved side walls201 and aroof202 to facilitate aerodynamic air flow over theside walls201 and theroof202. Theinflatable enclosure100 is free of sharp corners, thereby eliminating buffeting wind vortexes that may otherwise make theinflatable enclosure100 unstable.
• FIG. 4 exemplarily illustrates a partial internal view of theinflatable enclosure100. The inflatablestructural framework104 of each of the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 is assembled to create theinflatable enclosure100 to enclose aspace401. The inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 of theinflatable enclosure100 are inflated and anchored to theground surface108 for spanning across or enclosing a predefined area on theground surface108. Theinflatable enclosure100 is held in place on theground surface108 using techniques of ground anchorage known in the art. The inflatablestructural framework104 of theinflatable enclosure100 is pneumatically stiffened to support a load, for example, a cover, a weatherproof roof, etc.
• FIG. 5 exemplarily illustrates a partial view of the inflatablestructural framework104 of theinflatable enclosure100, showing positioning of atile member105 in one of theopenings104cof the inflatablestructural framework104. Theinflatable enclosure100 comprisesmultiple tile members105 that are inserted in theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 and thereafter pneumatically inflated to an appropriate pressure to plug and sealably encase theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104. In an embodiment, the enclosedannular space105dof each of thetile members105, as exemplarily illustrated inFIGS. 6A-6C, is inflated prior to insertion into theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104. Theinflated tile members105 plug and sealably encase theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104.
• An embodiment of thetile member105 of theinflatable enclosure100 is exemplarily illustrated inFIG. 5. In another embodiment, one or more of thetile members105 are opposably positioned within each of theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 to create an insulating weather seal for theinflatable enclosure100. Thermal or weather insulation is achieved by maintaining an air gap between the opposingtile members105 positioned within theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104. Thetile members105 are modular and fit in theopenings104cof the inflatablestructural framework104 from the inner surface and from the outer surface of the inflatablestructural framework104.
• FIG. 6A exemplarily illustrates a cross sectional view of a deflatedtile member105 of theinflatable enclosure100. Each of thetile members105 comprises aninflatable cell structure105aand anapron membrane105b.Theapron membrane105bconstitutes and defines a periphery around theinflatable cell structure105a.Theinflatable cell structure105acomprises a multidimensional array of one or more inflatable air bubbles orcells105cas illustrated inFIGS. 6A-6C. Theinflatable cell structure105adefines an enclosedannular space105dwithin each of thecells105cof theinflatable cell structure105afor receiving a fluid, for example, air, to inflate theinflatable cell structure105athrough a one-way valve in communication with the enclosedannular space105dwhich is well known in the art. Theinflatable cell structure105ashown inFIG. 6A is the configuration of theinflatable cell structure105awhen deflated.
• FIG. 6B exemplarily illustrates a bottom perspective view of aninflated tile member105 of theinflatable enclosure100. Theinflatable cell structure105aof thetile member105 shown inFIGS. 6B-6C is the configuration of theinflatable cell structure105awhen inflated. The enclosedannular space105dof each of thecells105cof theinflatable cell structure105ais inflated to an appropriate pneumatic pressure prior to insertion, or after insertion of theinflatable cell structure105ainto theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104. In an embodiment, the enclosedannular space105dof each of thecells105cof theinflatable cell structure105aof each of thetile members105 is inflated by compressed air from a commercial hand pump or an electric pump. Inflating the enclosedannular space105dby compressed air is well known in the art. The air fills the enclosedannular space105dof each of thecells105cof theinflatable cell structure105a,thereby inflating theinflatable cell structure105a.The enclosedannular space105dof each of thecells105cof theinflatable cell structure105amay be optionally inflated with other gases that are lighter than air and/or non-inflammable, for example, nitrogen. Theinflatable cell structure105awhen inserted in each of theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 plugs and sealably encases each of theopenings104c,and provides structural support for maintaining the shape of the inflatablestructural framework104, and hence the shape of theinflatable enclosure100. The dimensions of thetile member105, specifically the outer dimensions of theinflatable cell structure105athat plug into theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104, matches the inner dimensions of theopenings104csuch that theinflatable cell structure105awhen inflated forms a tight fit seal within theopenings104c.
• FIG. 6C exemplarily illustrates a cross sectional view of theinflated tile member105 of theinflatable enclosure100. As exemplarily illustrated inFIG. 1A andFIG. 5, theinflatable cell structure105aof thetile member105, when positioned within theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104, and inflated pneumatically to an appropriate pressure, plugs and sealably encases theopenings104cto provide multidimensional structural strength and stability to the inflatablestructural framework104. The inflation pressure of thetile member105 causes theinflatable air cells105cof theinflatable cell structure105ato expand tightly against theinflated beams104aand104bof the inflatablestructural framework104 circumjacent to thetile member105 in theopening104c,and vice versa. The tile form of thetile member105 is maintained by inflating theinflatable cell structure105ato a pressure of, for example, about 0.5 bar. The pressure of thetile member105 ensures that theinflatable cell structure105amaintains a tight fitting configuration in theopening104cand provides resistance against bending or buckling of theinflated beams104aand104bcircumjacent to theopening104c.The tight fit between theinflated tile member105 and theinflated beams104aand104bprovides an airtight seal around thetile member105.
• Theapron membrane105bforms a single continuous periphery for theinflatable cell structure105aas illustrated inFIG. 5 andFIG. 6B. Theapron membrane105boverlaps theinflated beams104aand104bcircumjacent to theopening104cinto which theinflatable cell structure105aof eachtile member105 is positioned. Theapron membrane105bprovides additional insulation to prevent atmospheric air from leaking in to theinflatable enclosure100 or out of theinflatable enclosure100. Theapron membrane105bis made from a material similar to that of theinflatable cell structure105a.For example, thetile member105 is manufactured from elastomers such as thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) with a wide range of hardness grades. The urethane material of thetile member105 has high abrasion resistance, oil resistance, low temperature flexibility, and superior load-bearing capability. Additives for the urethane material of thetile member105 improve dimensional stability and heat resistance, reduce surface friction, and enhance flame retardant property, fungus resistance and weather ability of thetile member105. As exemplarily illustrated inFIG. 5, thetile member105 is positioned within each of theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 by fastening theapron membrane105bto the inflatedlongitudinal beams104band the inflatedtransverse beams104aof the inflatablestructural framework104 of theinflatable enclosure100.
• Thetile members105 of theinflatable enclosure100 are made from elastomers that exhibit low opacity such that thetile members105 allow, for example,80% of natural light inside theinflatable enclosure100 during daytime. To provide lighting during dusky conditions, theinflated beams104aand104bof the inflatablestructural framework104 may support artificial lighting systems to provide sufficient lighting inside theinflatable enclosure100.
• FIG. 7 exemplarily illustrates apneumatic system700 for maintaining internal air pressure of the inflatablestructural framework104 of theinflatable enclosure100. Thepneumatic system700 comprises one or morepneumatic sensors701 and apneumatic pump702. The internal air pressure in the inflatablestructural framework104 of each of the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 of theinflatable enclosure100 is maintained by a mechanism referred to as air on demand (AoD). As used herein, the term “air on demand” refers to a mechanism whereby a constant internal air pressure is maintained in the inflatablestructural frameworks104 of theinflatable enclosure100 by thepneumatic sensors701 that enable control of intermittent delivery of air or other fluid gases from thepneumatic pump702 connected topneumatic inlets703 on the inflatablestructural frameworks104. Thepneumatic sensors701 are operably connected to one or more of the pneumatically interconnectedinflated beams104aand104bof the inflatablestructural framework104. Thepneumatic sensors701 monitor the internal air pressure of the inflatablestructural framework104. Thepneumatic pump702 comprises, for example, apneumatic inlet regulator702afor controlling the intermittent delivery of air into the enclosed annular space of each of thebeams104aand104bof the inflatablestructural framework104. Thepneumatic sensors701 continuously monitor the internal air pressure in the inflatablestructural framework104 of theinflatable enclosure100. Thepneumatic pump702, in communication with thepneumatic sensors701, maintains a constant internal air pressure within the inflatablestructural framework104 of theinflatable enclosure100. In an embodiment, the enclosed annular space of each of thebeams104aand104bof the inflatablestructural framework104 may be optionally inflated with other gases that are lighter than air and/or non-inflammable, for example, nitrogen. Thepneumatic system700 monitors and maintains the pressure of these gases in the inflatablestructural framework104 of theinflatable enclosure100.
• FIG. 8 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of theinflatable enclosure100 enveloped by an outermembranous sheath801. The outermembranous sheath801 encloses the entire structure of theinflatable enclosure100, including thetile members105, thereby providing a smooth weatherproof finish to enhance, for example, ultraviolet (UV) protection and lifespan of theinflatable enclosure100. The smooth finish provided by the outermembranous sheath801 also enhances the aerodynamics and integrity of theinflatable enclosure100. In an embodiment, the outermembranous sheath801 may have one ormore gaps801cto account for theentryways107 in the inflatablemiddle section102 and/or theend walls106 of theinflatable end sections101 and103. In another embodiment, one or more smallerprefabricated sheaths801aand801bare fastened together on-site and then enveloped over the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 of theinflatable enclosure100 before inflating theinflatable enclosure100. The outermembranous sheath801 may be over 80% transparent or translucent to allow natural light through to thetile members105 and inside theinflatable enclosure100.
• As exemplarily illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1C andFIG. 3, theinflatable enclosure100 incorporates an aerodynamic design and structure to minimize wind sheer, and provide stability, and ease of manufacture and use. As exemplarily illustrated inFIG. 8, the outermembranous sheath801 provides rakingend walls106 for creating a smooth air flow over theend walls106. The outermembranous sheath801 over theinflatable enclosure100 also provides smooth andcurved side walls201 and asmooth roof202 to facilitate smooth air flow over theside walls201 and theroof202.
• As exemplarily illustrated inFIG. 8, theinflatable enclosure100 is accessible through one ormore entryways107. In an embodiment, theinflatable enclosure100 comprises an inflatable pressurized door provided at theentryway107 in theend wall106 that provides weather proof shielding and additional structural stability to theentryway107 for long-term applications. In another embodiment, theinflatable enclosure100 comprises, for example, a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) Velcro® flap provided at theentryway107 for closing theentryway107.
• FIGS. 9A-9B exemplarily illustrate partial views of theinflatable enclosure100 ofFIG. 8, showing anentryway107 with a Velcro flap in themiddle section102 of theinflatable enclosure100. The Velcro flap is provided at theentryway107 for closing theentryway107.
• FIG. 10 illustrates a method for erecting theinflatable enclosure100. Aninflatable enclosure100, as disclosed in the detailed description ofFIGS. 1A-1C andFIGS. 3-5, is provided1001. Theinflatable enclosure100 comprises an inflatablemiddle section102 and one or moreinflatable end sections101 and103 configured to abut the inflatablemiddle section102. Each of the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 comprises an inflatablestructural framework104. The inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 of theinflatable enclosure100 are inflated1002 by inflating the enclosed annular space of each of thebeams104aand104bof the inflatablestructural framework104 of each of the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103. The network of pneumatically interconnectedinflated beams104aand104bdefines one ormore openings104cof predetermined shapes in the inflatablestructural framework104. The inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 are assembled1003 by abutting theinflatable end sections101 and103 against the opposing ends102aand102bof the inflatablemiddle section102, and anchored1003 to aground surface108.
• Theinflatable enclosure100 further comprisestile members105 as exemplarily illustrated inFIG. 5 andFIGS. 6B-6C. Thetile members105 are configured to be removably and securably inserted in one ormore openings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 of each of the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103. One or more of thetile members105 are inserted1004 in theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 of each of the inflatedmiddle section102 and theinflated end sections101 and103. The enclosedannular space105dof each of thetile members105 is inflated to an appropriate pressure prior to insertion, or inflated after insertion into theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 to plug and sealably encase theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104. Thetile members105 when inflated to an appropriate pressure in theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 provide multidimensional structural strength and stability to the inflatablestructural framework104 and create an insulating weather seal for theinflatable enclosure100. Theinflatable enclosure100, when inflated and erected, is generally arcuate in shape. The inflatablestructural framework104 of each of the inflatedmiddle section102 and theinflated end sections101 and103 are anchored to theground surface108 for spanning or enclosing a predefined area on theground surface108.
• Consider an example, where a sports court is required to be enclosed using theinflatable enclosure100 disclosed herein. The position of the yet-to-be assembledinflatable enclosure100 is marked on aground surface108, making special note of anchor positions. The anchors are then inserted into the marked anchor positions on theground surface108. The inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 are rolled out and set in position. The inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 are fastened together by threading a connecting lacing such that the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 are disposed adjacent to each other when inflated, as exemplarily illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1C. The inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 are then test inflated using a high pressurepneumatic pump702 or fast inflation fans, and sealed with thetile members105. The test operation is performed to ensure that the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 are well connected and straight. The inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 are again deflated for placing and fastening the outermembranous sheath801. Thesmaller sheaths801aand801bof the outermembranous sheath801 are laid out on theinflatable enclosure100 one after the other, starting with theroof202 of the inflatablemiddle section102 followed by theside walls201, while fastening thesmaller sheaths801aand801bto one another. The same procedure is followed for laying out thesmaller sheaths801aand801bon theroof202, theside walls201, and theend walls106 of each of theinflatable end sections101 and103. The cover flaps for theentryways107 are then laced in place. Theinflatable enclosure100 is inflated again using the high pressurepneumatic pump702 or fast inflation fans.
• In an embodiment, theroof202 of the inflatablemiddle section102 and/or theinflatable end sections101 and103 are separately inflated from theside walls201 and theend walls106 of thesesections101,102, and103. This requires that theinflated beams104aand104bconstituting theroof202 are pneumatically isolated or sealed off from thebeams104aand104bthat form part of theside walls201 and theend walls106. This allows easier access to theinflated roof202 for laying out the outermembranous sheath801 over theinflated roof202 while theside walls201 remain deflated. Theside walls201 are thereafter inflated via separatepneumatic inlets703 to raise theinflatable enclosure100 to its full height.
• Master anchors, for example, in-ground anchors having helical anchorage are set in place and connected to theinflatable enclosure100. Alternatively, one or more sand bags or water filled tubes are provided along the lower edge of theinflatable enclosure100 to hold theinflatable enclosure100 in position. The outermembranous sheath801 is tied down to minor sheathing anchorages set in place, and the doors are anchored in position at theentryways107. When theinflatable enclosure100 is secure, the maintenance fans, for example, the low pressurepneumatic pumps702 and thepneumatic sensors701 are integrated to theinflated beams104aand104bof theinflatable enclosure100 and tested by releasing some pressure. Thetile members105 are positioned in theopenings104cin the inflatablestructural framework104 before inflating theinflatable enclosure100 into erection and thereafter inflated to an appropriate pressure to plug, seal, and encase theopenings104c.In an embodiment, the pressure in thetile members105 is maintained by pneumatically connecting each of thetile members105 to one or more adjacentinflated beams104aand104b.
• For the purpose of illustration, although the detailed description ofFIGS. 1A-1C andFIGS. 2-8 refers to a single inflatablemiddle section102 abutting twoinflatable end sections101 and103, the scope of theinflatable enclosure100 disclosed herein is not limited to aninflatable enclosure100 having a single inflatablemiddle section102 but may extend to include one or more inflatablemiddle sections102 abutting one another and assembled between one or more of theinflatable end sections101 and103 to construct aninflatable enclosure100 spanning a greater area of theground surface108 depending on the purpose or application. Moreover, the inflatablemiddle section102 and theinflatable end sections101 and103 may be manufactured as a unified or integrated singleinflatable enclosure100 that can be inflated and erected at once, eliminating the need for assembling theinflatable sections101,102, and103 adjacent to one another. A singleintegrated enclosure100 may be suitable for applications that require a smaller covering area, for example, camping shelters.
• The foregoing examples have been provided merely for the purpose of explanation and are in no way to be construed as limiting of the present invention disclosed herein. While the invention has been described with reference to various embodiments, it is understood that the words, which have been used herein, are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Further, although the invention has been described herein with reference to particular means, materials, and embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed herein; rather, the invention extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods and uses, such as are within the scope of the appended claims. Those skilled in the art, having the benefit of the teachings of this specification, may effect numerous modifications thereto and changes may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention in its aspects.

Claims (20)

1. An inflatable enclosure, comprising:

an inflatable middle section and one or more inflatable end sections abutting opposing ends of said inflatable middle section to enclose a space;

each of said inflatable middle section and said one or more inflatable end sections comprising an inflatable structural framework, wherein said inflatable structural framework comprises a network of pneumatically interconnected inflated beams that defines one or more openings of predetermined shapes in said inflatable structural framework, wherein each of said beams defines an enclosed space for receiving a fluid to inflate said each of said beams; and

a plurality of tile members inserted in said one or more openings in said inflatable structural framework of each of said inflatable middle section and said one or more inflatable end sections, wherein each of said tile members defines an enclosed space for receiving a fluid to inflate said each of said tile members, wherein said tile members are configured to plug and sealably encase said one or more openings when inflated;

wherein said inflated tile members provide multidimensional structural strength and stability to said inflatable structural framework of each of said inflatable middle section and said one or more inflatable end sections.

2. The inflatable enclosure ofclaim 1, wherein said network of pneumatically interconnected inflated beams comprises one or more inflated longitudinal beams pneumatically interconnected with one or more inflated transverse beams to define said inflatable structural framework, wherein each of said longitudinal beams and said transverse beams define an enclosed space for receiving a fluid to inflate said each of said longitudinal beams and said transverse beams.

3. The inflatable enclosure ofclaim 1, wherein said inflatable middle section and said one or more inflatable end sections are assembled to create said inflatable enclosure.

4. The inflatable enclosure ofclaim 1, wherein said inflatable middle section and said one or more inflatable end sections are inflated and anchored to a ground surface for spanning a predefined area on said ground surface.

5. The inflatable enclosure ofclaim 1, wherein each of said tile members comprises an inflatable cell structure and an apron membrane, wherein said apron membrane defines a periphery around said inflatable cell structure, wherein said inflatable cell structure defines an enclosed space within each of a plurality of cells of said inflatable cell structure for receiving a fluid to inflate said inflatable cell structure, wherein said inflatable cell structure of said each of said tile members is inserted in each of said one or more openings in said inflatable structural framework and inflated to plug said each of said one or more openings and provide said multidimensional structural strength and said stability to said inflatable structural framework.

6. The inflatable enclosure ofclaim 5, wherein said enclosed space within each of said cells of said inflatable cell structure of said each of said tile members is inflated prior to said insertion of said inflatable cell structure in said each of said one or more openings to plug said each of said one or more openings and provide said multidimensional structural strength and said stability to said inflatable structural framework.

7. The inflatable enclosure ofclaim 1, wherein one or more of said tile members are opposably positioned within each of said one or more openings in said inflatable structural framework to create an insulating weather seal for said inflatable enclosure.

8. The inflatable enclosure ofclaim 1, wherein said inflatable middle section is generally arcuate in shape, and wherein each of said one or more inflatable end sections defines an end wall for said inflatable enclosure.

9. The inflatable enclosure ofclaim 1, further comprising one or more pneumatic sensors operably connected to one or more of said pneumatically interconnected inflated beams of said inflatable structural framework for monitoring internal air pressure of said inflatable structural framework.

10. The inflatable enclosure ofclaim 9, further comprising a pneumatic pump in communication with said one or more pneumatic sensors, wherein said pneumatic pump maintains a constant internal air pressure within said inflatable structural framework.

11. The inflatable enclosure ofclaim 1, further comprising an outer membranous sheath that encloses said inflatable enclosure and said tile members for providing a smooth weatherproof finish to said inflatable enclosure.

12. A method for erecting an inflatable enclosure, comprising:

providing said inflatable enclosure comprising:

an inflatable middle section and one or more inflatable end sections abutting opposing ends of said inflatable middle section to enclose a space, each of said inflatable middle section and said one or more inflatable end sections comprising an inflatable structural framework, wherein said inflatable structural framework comprises a network of pneumatically interconnected beams that defines one or more openings of predetermined shapes in said inflatable structural framework, wherein each of said beams defines an enclosed space for receiving a fluid to inflate said each of said beams; and

a plurality of tile members configured to be removably and securably inserted in said one or more openings in said inflatable structural framework of each of said inflatable middle section and said one or more inflatable end sections, wherein each of said tile members defines an enclosed space for receiving a fluid to inflate said each of said tile members, wherein said tile members are configured to plug and sealably encase said one or more openings when inflated;

inflating said inflatable middle section and one or more of said one or more inflatable end sections by inflating said enclosed space of said each of said beams of said inflatable structural framework of each of said inflatable middle section and said one or more inflatable end sections;

assembling and anchoring said inflated middle section and said inflated one or more end sections on a ground surface; and

inserting one or more of said tile members in said one or more openings in said inflatable structural framework of each of said inflated middle section and said inflated one or more end sections, wherein said enclosed space of each of said one or more tile members is inflated to plug and sealably encase said one or more openings in said inflatable structural framework;

whereby said inflated one or more tile members in said one or more openings in said inflatable structural framework of said inflated middle section and said inflated one or more end sections provides multidimensional structural strength and stability to said inflatable structural framework and creates an insulating weather seal for said inflatable enclosure.

13. The method ofclaim 12, wherein said network of pneumatically interconnected inflated beams comprises one or more inflated longitudinal beams pneumatically interconnected with one or more inflated transverse beams to define said inflatable structural framework.

14. The method ofclaim 12, wherein each of said tile members comprises an inflatable cell structure and an apron membrane, wherein said apron membrane defines a periphery around said inflatable cell structure, wherein said inflatable cell structure defines an enclosed space within each of a plurality of cells of said inflatable cell structure for receiving a fluid to inflate said inflatable cell structure, wherein said inflatable cell structure of said each of said tile members is inserted in each of said one or more openings in said inflatable structural framework and inflated prior to or after said insertion to plug said each of said one or more openings and provide said multidimensional structural strength and said stability to said inflatable structural framework.

15. The method ofclaim 12, further comprising opposably positioning one or more of said tile members within each of said one or more openings in said inflatable structural framework to create said insulating weather seal for said inflatable enclosure.

16. The method ofclaim 12, wherein said inflatable middle section is generally arcuate in shape, and wherein each of said one or more inflatable end sections defines an end wall for said inflatable enclosure.

17. The method ofclaim 12, wherein said inflatable middle section and said one or more inflatable end sections of said inflatable enclosure that are inflated and anchored to said ground surface span a predefined area on said ground surface.

18. The method ofclaim 12, further comprising monitoring internal air pressure of said inflatable structural framework using one or more pneumatic sensors operably connected to one or more of said pneumatically interconnected inflated beams of said inflatable structural framework.

19. The method ofclaim 18, further comprising maintaining a constant internal air pressure within said inflatable structural framework using a pneumatic pump in communication with said one or more pneumatic sensors.

20. The method ofclaim 12, wherein said inflated one or more tile members in said one or more openings in said inflatable structural framework plug and sealably encase said one or more openings to form a contiguous structure with said pneumatically interconnected inflated beams in said inflatable structural framework.

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