Inflatable bulkhead

Abstract

Inflatable partitions are disclosed. An inflatable partition includes a flexible membrane, an inflatable frame, and a support member coupled to the inflatable frame. The inflatable frame extends along a perimeter of the flexible membrane and has an inner edge adjacent the flexible membrane and an outer edge. The inflatable frame further includes a sealing mechanism extending along at least a portion of the outer edge, and the inflatable frame is inflatable between a first state and a second state. The inflatable partition includes a first structural member and a second structural member. Each of the first and second structural members is coupled to the inflatable frame and extends vertically from an upper portion to a lower portion of the inflatable frame, and the first and second structural members define an opening in the inflatable partition.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an inflatable partition for forming a temporary portable barrier. Background Technology

[0002] Seats on public transport such as airplanes, buses, trains, or cars, as well as seats in venues such as concert halls and auditoriums, can be very close together, bringing passengers or attendees very close together. Pathogens (such as, but not limited to, SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19) can spread between passengers or attendees through airborne droplets produced by breathing, coughing, sneezing, etc. The spread of such pathogens is especially common when physical distancing or other measures are not possible or used. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The embodiments of this disclosure offer numerous advantages. For example, embodiments of this disclosure enable portable, inflatable, lightweight partitions to easily divide areas. The inflatable partitions create temporary barriers, allowing for the closure and separation of areas where permanent partitions are not feasible or necessary.

[0004] In one aspect of this disclosure, an inflatable partition includes a flexible membrane and an inflatable frame extending along the periphery of the flexible membrane. The inflatable frame has an inner edge and an outer edge adjacent to the flexible membrane. The inflatable frame includes a first side, a second side opposite to the first side, an upper portion connecting the first and second sides, and a bottom portion opposite to the upper portion. The inflatable frame also includes a sealing mechanism extending along at least a portion of the outer edge. The inflatable frame is inflatable between a first state and a second state. The inflatable partition also includes a support member coupled to the inflatable frame, as well as a first structural member and a second structural member. Each of the first and second structural members is coupled to the inflatable frame and extends vertically from the upper portion to the bottom portion of the inflatable frame. The first and second structural members define openings in the inflatable partition.

[0005] In some aspects, the sealing mechanism includes a first sealing mechanism extending along a first side of the inflatable frame and a second sealing mechanism extending along a second side of the inflatable frame.

[0006] In some respects, the sealing mechanism includes a third sealing mechanism extending along the upper part of the inflatable frame.

[0007] In some aspects, the first sealing mechanism includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member spaced apart from the first sealing member.

[0008] In some respects, the first sealing member and the second sealing member are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edge of the inflatable frame, and each of the first sealing member and the second sealing member is configured to frictionally engage with a surface, such that the inflatable partition is releasably secured to the surface.

[0009] In some respects, the first and second sealing components are made of silicone rubber.

[0010] In some aspects, the sealing mechanism includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member spaced apart from the first sealing member. The first and second sealing members are configured to frictionally engage with a surface when the inflatable frame is inflated, such that a negative pressure condition exists between the inflatable frame and the surface.

[0011] In some respects, the flexible membrane includes a first flexible membrane and a second flexible membrane, which are releasably coupled together to extend across an opening.

[0012] In some respects, the first flexible membrane has a first edge, the second flexible membrane has a second edge, and the first flexible membrane and the second flexible membrane are magnetically connected together along the first edge and the second edge.

[0013] In some respects, the flexible membrane is transparent.

[0014] In some respects, flexible membranes are foldable.

[0015] In some aspects, the flexible membrane includes a first flexible membrane extending from the inner edge of a first side of the inflatable frame to a first structural member, a second flexible membrane extending from the first structural member, a third flexible membrane extending from the second structural member, and a fourth flexible member extending from the inner edge of a second side of the inflatable frame to the second structural member. The second and third flexible membranes are releasably coupled together to extend across an opening.

[0016] In some respects, the inflatable frame is capable of inflating between a first state, which includes an uninflated state, and a second state, which includes an inflated state.

[0017] In some respects, the support components are inflatable and fluidly connected to the inflatable frame.

[0018] In some respects, the support members include a first support member, a second support member, a third support member, and a fourth support member. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth support members extends perpendicular to the inflatable frame.

[0019] In some respects, the first support member, the second support member, the third support member, and the fourth support member are evenly distributed along the bottom of the inflatable frame.

[0020] In some respects, when the inflatable frame is inflated, the inflatable frame has a varying diameter around the periphery of the flexible membrane.

[0021] In some aspects, the inflatable partition also includes an inflation mechanism that includes a battery, a motor connected to the battery, and a turbine connected to the motor, and the inflatable frame can be inflated by the inflation mechanism.

[0022] In some respects, the inflatable frame can be inflated by one or more of an external pump, fan, and compressed air cylinder.

[0023] In another aspect of this disclosure, a vehicle includes a body having an inner surface and an inflatable partition. The inflatable partition includes a flexible membrane and an inflatable frame extending along the periphery of the flexible membrane. The inflatable frame has an inner edge and an outer edge adjacent to the flexible membrane. The inflatable frame includes a first side, a second side opposite to the first side, an upper portion connecting the first and second sides, and a bottom portion opposite to the upper portion. The inflatable frame also includes a sealing mechanism extending along at least a portion of the outer edge. The inflatable frame is inflatable between a first state and a second state. The inflatable partition also includes a support member, a first structural member, and a second structural member coupled to the inflatable frame. Each of the first and second structural members is coupled to the inflatable frame and extends vertically from the upper portion to the bottom portion of the inflatable frame, defining an opening in the inflatable partition.

[0024] In some aspects, the sealing mechanism includes a first sealing mechanism extending along a first side of the inflatable frame and a second sealing mechanism extending along a second side of the inflatable frame.

[0025] In some aspects, the first sealing mechanism includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member spaced apart from the first sealing member.

[0026] In some respects, the first and second sealing members are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edge of the inflatable frame. Each of the first and second sealing members is configured to frictionally engage with a surface, such that the inflatable partition is releasably secured to the inner surface.

[0027] In some respects, the sealing mechanism includes a third sealing mechanism extending along the upper part of the inflatable frame.

[0028] In some respects, the first and second sealing components are made of silicone rubber.

[0029] In some aspects, the sealing mechanism includes a first sealing member and a second sealing member spaced apart from the first sealing member. The first and second sealing members are configured to frictionally engage with the inner surface when the inflatable frame is inflated, such that a negative pressure condition exists between the inflatable frame and the inner surface.

[0030] In some respects, the flexible membrane is transparent.

[0031] In some respects, flexible membranes are foldable.

[0032] In some aspects, the flexible membrane includes a first flexible membrane extending from the inner edge of a first side of the inflatable frame to a first structural member, a second flexible membrane extending from the first structural member, a third flexible membrane extending from the second structural member, and a fourth flexible member extending from the inner edge of a second side of the inflatable frame to the second structural member. The second and third flexible membranes are releasably coupled together to extend across an opening.

[0033] In some respects, the inflatable frame is capable of inflating between a first state, which includes an uninflated state, and a second state, which includes an inflated state.

[0034] In some respects, the support components are inflatable and fluidly connected to the inflatable frame.

[0035] In some respects, the support members include a first support member, a second support member, a third support member, and a fourth support member. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth support members extends perpendicular to the inflatable frame.

[0036] In some respects, the first support member, the second support member, the third support member, and the fourth support member are evenly distributed along the bottom of the inflatable frame.

[0037] In some respects, when the inflatable frame is inflated, the inflatable frame has a varying diameter around the periphery of the flexible membrane.

[0038] In some aspects, the inflatable partition also includes an inflation mechanism that includes a battery, a motor connected to the battery, and a turbine connected to the motor, and the inflatable frame can be inflated by the inflation mechanism.

[0039] In some respects, the inflatable frame can be inflated by one or more of an external pump, fan, and compressed air cylinder.

[0040] In another aspect of this disclosure, a method for establishing a temporary barrier includes providing an inflatable partition comprising a flexible membrane and an inflatable frame extending along a periphery of the flexible membrane. The inflatable frame has an inner edge and an outer edge adjacent to the flexible membrane. The inflatable frame includes a first side, a second side opposite to the first side, an upper portion connecting the first and second sides, and a bottom portion opposite to the upper portion. The inflatable frame also includes a first sealing mechanism extending along the outer edge of the first side of the inflatable frame and a second sealing mechanism extending along the outer edge of the second side of the inflatable frame. The inflatable frame is inflatable between a first state and a second state. The method further includes unfolding the inflatable partition from a folded configuration to an unfolded configuration and positioning the inflatable partition at a desired location of the temporary barrier such that the first side of the inflatable frame is adjacent to a first surface and the second side of the inflatable frame is adjacent to a second surface. The method further includes inflating the inflatable frame of the inflatable partition such that the first sealing mechanism frictionally engages with the first surface and the second sealing mechanism frictionally engages with the second surface.

[0041] In some respects, inflating the inflatable frame of the inflatable partition involves activating an air pump that is connected to the flexible membrane and fluidly connected to the inflatable frame.

[0042] In some aspects, the method also includes forming negative pressure conditions between a first side and a first surface of the inflatable frame and between a second side and a second surface of the inflatable frame. Attached Figure Description

[0043] This disclosure will be described in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein the same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic front perspective view illustrating an inflatable partition for providing a temporary barrier according to an embodiment.

[0045] Figure 2 This describes the embodiments. Figure 1 The schematic front perspective view of the inflatable partition shown illustrates the opening in the flexible membrane.

[0046] Figure 3 This describes the embodiments. Figure 1 A schematic partial perspective view of the inflatable frame of the inflatable partition shown.

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic top partial cross-sectional view illustrating the inflatable frame of the inflatable partition according to an embodiment.

[0048] Figure 5 This describes the embodiments. Figure 1 The schematic front view of the inflatable partition shown illustrates the airflow within the inflatable frame.

[0049] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of two inflatable partitions installed in the cabin area as temporary physical barriers between adjacent rows of seats, according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a method for establishing a temporary barrier according to an embodiment.

[0051] The foregoing and other features of this disclosure will become more apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only a few embodiments according to this disclosure and should not be considered as limiting its scope; the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail using the drawings. Any scale disclosed in the drawings or elsewhere herein is for illustrative purposes only. Detailed Implementation

[0052] This document describes embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples, and other embodiments may take various alternative forms. These drawings are not necessarily to scale; some features may be enlarged or reduced to show details of specific components. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but only as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to use the present disclosure in various ways. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, various features illustrated and described with reference to any of the drawings may be combined with features illustrated in one or more other drawings to produce embodiments not explicitly illustrated or described. The combinations of features shown provide representative embodiments of typical applications. However, various combinations and modifications of features consistent with the teachings of this disclosure may be desired for particular applications or implementations.

[0053] In the following description, certain terms may be used for illustrative purposes only and are therefore not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “above” and “below” refer to orientation in the referenced figures. Terms such as “front,” “back,” “fore,” “aft,” “left,” “right,” “rear,” and “side” describe the orientation and / or position of a portion of a component or element within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference, as will be clear from the text and associated figures describing the component or element in question. Furthermore, terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used to describe individual components. Such terms may include the words specifically mentioned above, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings.

[0054] In various embodiments (including the illustrated embodiments discussed herein), the inflatable baffle includes an inflatable outer periphery having a central membrane or diaphragm. This configuration allows the inflatable baffle to be easily and quickly inflated to the desired pressure expansion and configured to be positioned in a desired location. Depending on the intended use and location of the baffle, additional features such as motors and pumps, support members, magnetic slits, etc., are included in various embodiments. In the various embodiments discussed herein, the same reference numerals refer to the same components.

[0055] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An embodiment of an inflatable partition 100 is shown. The inflatable partition 100 is a flexible member that can be deployed and inflated between a first or uninflated configuration and a second or inflated configuration. The inflatable partition 100 includes a flexible membrane 102 and an inflatable frame 104 surrounding at least a portion of the flexible membrane 102. In various embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 is a foldable flexible material, such as, but not limited to, plastic, which can be manipulated by hand between a first configuration for storage and transport, and a second configuration that is deployed and inflated to serve as a partition between adjacent areas. In some embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 is substantially rectangular. In various embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 is shaped to fit snugly against the inner wall or surface of a cabin, such as the cabin of an aircraft fuselage.

[0056] In some embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 includes multiple portions that are joined together across the length and / or height of the inflatable partition 100 to form a continuous separator. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the flexible membrane 102 includes a first flexible membrane portion 102A, a second flexible membrane portion 102B, a third flexible membrane portion 102C, and a fourth flexible membrane portion 102D. However, in some embodiments, the first flexible membrane portion 102A, the second flexible membrane portion 102B, the third flexible membrane portion 102C, and the fourth flexible membrane portion 102D are not distinct and separated portions, but rather identify regions of the flexible membrane 102 separated by other components of the inflatable partition 100.

[0057] In various embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 is substantially transparent, i.e., see-through, to allow flight attendants (e.g., cabin crew) to observe passengers in each area separated by the inflatable partition 100. In other embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 is opaque, colored, frosted, or includes designs, logos, or other representations.

[0058] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1As shown, the inflatable partition 100 includes a first tension member 108 and a second tension member 109. In the illustrated embodiment, the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109 are substantially parallel and extend between the top and bottom edges of the flexible membrane 102 to provide additional stability to the flexible membrane 102 when the inflatable partition 100 is in a second or inflated configuration. In various embodiments, the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109 are inflatable members. In various embodiments, the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109 are flexible strips or rods that are more rigid than the flexible membrane 102. In various embodiments, the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109 are inflatable. The first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109 define a doorway or opening 111 in the flexible membrane 102. The second flexible membrane portion 102B and the third flexible membrane portion 102C are releasably connected via a connection at a seam 110. Seam 110 connects the first edge of the second flexible membrane portion 102B to the second edge of the third flexible membrane portion 102C. In various embodiments, the connection is a magnetic connection. In various embodiments, the connection is a reusable adhesive, hook and loop closure, or other type of mechanical closure or fastening, for example, but not limited to, these.

[0059] The inflatable partition 100 also includes one or more support members 106 connected to the inflatable frame 104. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the inflatable partition 100 includes four support members 106. In various embodiments, the support members 106 are inflatable members in fluid communication with the bottom 104D of the inflatable frame 104. When the inflatable partition 100 is inflated and positioned in a desired location, the support members 106 extend generally perpendicular to the inflatable frame 104 to support the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, the inflatable partition 100 includes more or fewer support members 106, depending on various factors such as, but not limited to, the size of the inflatable partition 100, the position of the inflatable partition 100, etc.

[0060] The inflatable frame 104 extends along the outer edge of the flexible membrane 102. For example... Figure 1As shown, the inflatable frame 104 can be inflated and deflated between a first or deflated state and a second or inflated state. The inflatable frame 104 can be inflated by any inflation method, including, but not limited to, inflation mechanisms inside or outside the inflatable partition 100, such as compressed air cylinders or pneumatic cylinders, handheld or electric pumps, battery-powered compressors or fans, etc. In various embodiments, the inflatable frame 104 has a varying diameter around the periphery of the flexible membrane 102. As the diameter of the inflatable frame 104 gradually decreases from the bottom to the top of the inflatable partition 100, the time required for the inflatable partition 100 to unfold or inflate and the total weight of the inflatable partition 100 are reduced. In other words, the diameter of the inflatable frame 104 is larger at the bottom than at the top of the inflatable partition 100. Furthermore, the varying diameter of the inflatable frame 104 results in a lower center of gravity for the inflatable partition 100, providing better stability when the inflatable partition 100 is inflated and positioned in the desired location.

[0061] Continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The inflatable frame 104 includes an inner edge 114 and an outer edge 124 adjacent to the flexible membrane 102. In various embodiments, the inflatable frame 104 includes a first side 104A, a second side 104B opposite to the first side 104A, an upper portion 104C connecting the first side 104A and the second side 104B, and a bottom portion 104D opposite to the upper portion 104C. In various embodiments, the upper portion 104C is shaped to have one or more different portions arranged in series, such as a first upper portion 104C1, a second upper portion 104C2, and a third upper portion 104C3. The first side 104A, the second side 104B, and the upper portion 104C are shaped to align with and seal against the ceiling, surface, and / or wall of the intended use location of the inflatable partition 100, as discussed in more detail herein.

[0062] In various embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, and more in detail as Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the inflatable frame 104 also includes a sealing mechanism 120. The sealing mechanism 120 extends along at least a portion of the outer edge 124 of the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, the sealing mechanism 120 extends along each of a first side 104A and a second side 104B of the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, the sealing mechanism 120 extends along an upper portion 104C of the inflatable frame 104 (including one or more of a first upper portion 104C1, a second upper portion 104C2, and a third upper portion 104C3). In various embodiments, the sealing mechanism 120 is segmented; that is, independent and discrete sealing mechanisms 120 extend along at least a portion of the outer edge 124 of the inflatable frame 104. In other words, in some embodiments, the sealing mechanism 120 is continuous along at least a portion of the outer edge 124 of the inflatable frame 104, while in some embodiments, the sealing mechanism 120 includes a plurality of sealing mechanisms 120 extending along at least a portion of the outer edge 124 of the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, the plurality of sealing mechanisms 120 are separated by separators (such as silicone rubber separators) to allow localized negative pressure to be formed in each sealing mechanism segment 120, as discussed in more detail herein.

[0063] Continue to refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In various embodiments, the inflatable frame 104 includes a first inflatable frame member 116 and a second inflatable frame member 118. The first inflatable frame member 116 and the second inflatable frame member 118 are joined together at a joint 117 to define an inflatable region 105 of the tubular structure of the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, at least a portion of each of the first inflatable frame member 116 and the second inflatable frame member 118 overlaps at the joint 117. In some embodiments, the first inflatable frame member 116 and the second inflatable frame member 118 are joined together, for example, but not limited to, using an adhesive. In various embodiments, the flexible membrane 102 includes a connecting tab 112. The connecting tab 112 is joined to the inflatable frame 104 using any joining method (e.g., but not limited to adhesives). In various embodiments, at least a portion 128 of the second inflatable frame member 118 overlaps and joins to the edge of the flexible membrane 102 to provide additional support for the connection between the flexible membrane 102 and the inflatable frame 104.

[0064] The sealing mechanism 120 includes a first sealing member 121 and a second sealing member 122 spaced apart from the first sealing member 121. In various embodiments, the first sealing member 121 and the second sealing member 122 are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edge 124 of the inflatable frame 104. Each of the first sealing member 121 and the second sealing member 122 is configured to frictionally engage with a surface, such that the inflatable partition 100 is releasably secured to the surface. At least a portion of the first sealing member 121 is coupled to the inflatable frame 104. Similarly, at least a portion of the second sealing member 122 is coupled to the inflatable frame 104. Figure 4 As shown, the first sealing member tab 123 is attached to the first inflatable frame member 116 using any connection method (e.g., but not limited to adhesives). The second sealing member tab 125 is attached to the second inflatable frame member 118 using adhesives or any other connection method. As discussed in more detail herein, the first sealing member 121 and the second sealing member 122, together with the tubular structure of the inflatable frame 104, form a negative pressure zone between the inflatable frame 104 and the surface against which the inflatable partition 100 abuts. The first sealing member 121 and the second sealing member 122 also provide increased contact area with the surface against which the inflatable partition 100 abuts for frictional engagement with the surface and to support the inflatable partition 100 in the desired position.

[0065] like Figure 5 As shown, the inflation mechanism 130 is coupled to the inflatable partition 100 and controlled by an operator to inflate and / or deflate the inflatable partition 100. In various embodiments, the inflation mechanism 130 includes a one-way valve. In various embodiments, the inflation mechanism 130 is a pump, compressed air cylinder, or fan, for example, but not limited to these. In various embodiments, the inflation mechanism 130 includes a battery, a motor coupled to the battery, and a turbine coupled to the motor, all of which are contained within the inflation mechanism 130 coupled to the inflatable frame 104. In various embodiments, the inflation mechanism 130 is incorporated into or coupled to the bottom 104D of the inflatable frame 104. Although the inflation mechanism 130 is shown in one location on the inflatable partition 100, it should be understood that the inflation mechanism 130 can be located anywhere within or coupled to the inflatable partition 100.

[0066] Figure 5 The illustration shows airflow through a tubular structure of an inflatable frame 104 according to an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109 are inflatable members connected to the inflatable frame 104 using one-way valves 131, 132, 133, and 134. The one-way valves 131, 132, 133, and 134 allow airflow from the inflation mechanism 130 through the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109 into the tubular structure of the inflatable frame 104.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, the inflation mechanism 130 generates a leftward (indicated by arrow 141) airflow 141 and a rightward (indicated by arrow 142) airflow 142 via the bottom 104D of the inflatable frame 104. A first side 104A of the inflatable frame 104 is connected to the bottom 104D at a first sealing joint 135. Similarly, a second side 104B of the inflatable frame 104 is connected to the bottom 104D at a second sealing joint 136. When a predetermined pressure is reached within the bottom 104, air flows upward from the bottom 104D via one-way valves 131, 132 through the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109, as indicated by arrows 143, 144. As a result, the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109 inflate at approximately the same rate to raise the flexible membrane 102 connected to the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109.

[0068] When the predetermined pressure is reached in the first tension member 108 and the second tension member 109, the one-way valves 133 and 134 open. Then, air enters the upper part 104C of the inflatable frame 104 through the one-way valves 133 and 134. The air is distributed throughout the first side 104A, the second side 104B, and the upper part 104C of the inflatable frame 104, as shown by arrows 145 and 146. Figure 5 An embodiment of an inflatable baffle 100 is shown, which includes a plurality of one-way valves to guide air through an inflatable frame 104; however, it should be understood that other configurations of the one-way valves (including more or fewer valves and different arrangements of valves) and connections between the tubular members of the inflatable frame 104 are possible.

[0069] In various embodiments, at least a portion of the inflatable frame 104 of the inflatable partition 100 includes a compressible material that enables the inflatable frame 104 to self-inflate at least partially when in fluid communication with ambient air.

[0070] Figure 6 Two inflatable partitions 100 are shown located within a vehicle (e.g., an aircraft cabin) to form a barrier between adjacent areas (e.g., adjacent rows of seats). The inflatable partitions 100 are shown in a second, deployed, and / or inflated configuration. One inflatable partition 100 separates a first area 201 from a second area 202. The other inflatable partition 100 separates the second area 202 from a third area 203. In some embodiments, the second area 202 is a defined area isolated from the rest of the aircraft cabin.

[0071] like Figure 6As shown, the inflatable frame 104 is positioned adjacent to surfaces 251, 252 inside the aircraft cabin. The inflatable partition 100 has dimensions slightly smaller than the cabin interior, such that the first sealing member 121 and the second sealing member 122 of the sealing mechanism 120 will seal any gaps between the inflatable frame 104 and surfaces 251, 252. When the inflatable partition 100 is in a second or inflatable configuration, the inflatable frame 104 expands due to pressure in the tubular structure. Due to the pressure of the tubular structure of the inflatable frame 104 on surface 251, air in the gaps between the first sealing member 121 and the second sealing member 122 and surface 251 is expelled, thereby creating a negative pressure zone between the sealing mechanism 120 and surface 251. The first sealing member 121 and the second sealing member 122 frictionally engage with surface 251 to help secure the inflatable partition 100 in the desired position and seal the inflatable partition against surface 251. In addition, the magnetic or other connections of the flexible membrane 102 at the seam 110 provide additional sealing benefits while allowing access to and from the area 202.

[0072] exist Figure 7 The flowchart illustrates a method 700 for providing an inflatable partition as a temporary physical barrier. Method 700 can be used in conjunction with the inflatable partition 100 discussed herein. As applicable to this disclosure, the sequence of operations of method 700 is not limited to... Figure 7 The steps are not executed in the order shown, but can be executed in one or more different orders, or the steps can be executed simultaneously.

[0073] Starting at 702, an inflatable partition, such as inflatable partition 100, is provided. Next, at 704, inflatable partition 100 is deployed from a first or folded and uninflated configuration to a second or deployed configuration.

[0074] Method 700 continues at 706, wherein the inflatable frame 104 of the inflatable partition 100 is positioned at the desired location of the temporary barrier. In various embodiments, the desired location is the position between adjacent rows of seats, such as seats on airplanes, buses, trains, cars, trucks, or other vehicles. Figure 6 As shown.

[0075] Next, at 708, the inflatable partition 100 is inflated by the inflation mechanism 130. As discussed herein, air or other fluids may be used to inflate the inflatable frame 104. Furthermore, as discussed herein, any of a variety of inflation mechanisms may be used to inflate the inflatable frame 104.

[0076] As discussed herein, the inflation of the inflatable partition 100 uses a combination of friction engagement and negative pressure to temporarily secure the inflatable frame 104 to a surface at a desired location. In various embodiments, other methods are used to secure the inflatable partition 100 to a desired location, including, for example, but not limited to, temporarily securing one or more support members 106 to the lower surface or floor of the desired location.

[0077] It should be emphasized that many variations and modifications can be made to the embodiments described herein, and the elements of these embodiments should be understood as other acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the appended claims. Furthermore, any steps described herein may be performed simultaneously or in a different order than those described herein. Moreover, it should be understood that features and properties of specific embodiments disclosed herein may be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of this disclosure.

[0078] The conditional language used herein, such as “can,” “could,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” etc., unless otherwise specifically stated or otherwise understood in the context in which they are used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include certain features, elements, and / or states, while other embodiments do not include certain features, elements, and / or states. Therefore, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that one or more embodiments require features, elements, and / or states in any way, or that one or more embodiments must include logic for determining, with or without author input or prompting, whether such features, elements, and / or states are included in or will be performed in any particular embodiment.

[0079] In addition, the following terms may be used herein. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context explicitly specifies otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to an item includes a reference to one or more items. The term “ones” means one, two, or more, and is generally applicable to selecting a portion or all of a quantity. The term “plurality” means two or more items. The terms “about” or “approximately” refer to quantities, scales, dimensions, formulations, parameters, shapes, and other characteristics that do not need to be precise but can be approximated and / or larger or smaller as needed, reflecting acceptable tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors, and other factors known to those skilled in the art. The term “substantially” means that the characteristic, parameter, or value does not need to be precisely achieved, and deviations or variations (including, for example, tolerances, measurement errors, measurement accuracy limitations, and other factors known to those skilled in the art) may occur in quantities that do not preclude the effects that the feature is intended to provide.

[0080] Furthermore, this disclosure includes embodiments pursuant to the following provisions:

[0081] Clause 1. An inflatable partition (100), comprising:

[0082] Flexible membrane (102);

[0083] An inflatable frame (104) extending along the periphery of a flexible membrane (102) has an inner edge (114) and an outer edge (124) adjacent to the flexible membrane (102). The inflatable frame (104) includes a first side (104A), a second side (104B) opposite to the first side (104A), an upper portion (104C) connecting the first side and the second side, and a bottom portion (104D) opposite to the upper portion (104C). The inflatable frame (104) also includes a sealing mechanism (120) extending along at least a portion of the outer edge (124), wherein the inflatable frame (104) is capable of being inflated between a first state and a second state.

[0084] Support member (106) connected to the inflatable frame (104); and

[0085] A first structural member (108) and a second structural member (109), wherein each of the first structural member and the second structural member is connected to an inflatable frame (104) and extends vertically from the upper part (104C) of the inflatable frame (104) to the bottom (104D), and the first structural member and the second structural member define an opening (111) in an inflatable partition (100).

[0086] Clause 2. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 1, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing mechanism (120) extending along a first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) and a second sealing mechanism (120) extending along a second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0087] Clause 3. The inflatable partition (100) as described in Clause 2, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a third sealing mechanism (120) extending along the upper portion (104C) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0088] Clause 4. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 2, wherein the first sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced apart from the first sealing member (121).

[0089] Clause 5. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 4, wherein the first sealing member and the second sealing member are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edge (124) of the inflatable frame (104), and each of the first sealing member and the second sealing member is configured to frictionally engage with the surface (251) such that the inflatable partition (100) is releasably secured to the surface (251).

[0090] Clause 6. The inflatable partition (100) as described in Clause 4, wherein the first sealing member and the second sealing member are silicone rubber.

[0091] Clause 7. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 1, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced apart from the first sealing member (121), and the first and second sealing members are configured to frictionally engage with the surface (251) when the inflatable frame (104) is inflated, such that a negative pressure condition exists between the inflatable frame (104) and the surface (251).

[0092] Clause 8. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 1, wherein the flexible membrane (102) includes a first flexible membrane (102B) and a second flexible membrane (102C), the first and second flexible membranes being releasably coupled together to extend across the opening (111).

[0093] Clause 9. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 8, wherein the first flexible membrane (102B) has a first edge, the second flexible membrane (102C) has a second edge, and the first flexible membrane and the second flexible membrane are magnetically connected together along the first edge and the second edge.

[0094] Clause 10. The inflatable partition (100) as described in Clause 1, wherein the flexible membrane (102) is transparent.

[0095] Clause 11. The inflatable partition (100) as described in Clause 1, wherein the flexible membrane (102) is foldable.

[0096] Clause 12. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 1, wherein the flexible membrane (102) includes a first flexible membrane (102A) extending from the inner edge (114) of the first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) to the first structural member (108), a second flexible membrane (102B) extending from the first structural member (108), a third flexible membrane (102C) extending from the second structural member (109), and a fourth flexible member extending from the inner edge (114) of the second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104) to the second structural member (109), and the second and third flexible membranes are releasably coupled together to extend across the opening (111).

[0097] Clause 13. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 1, wherein the inflatable frame (104) is capable of being inflated between a first state including an uninflated state and a second state including an inflated state.

[0098] Clause 14. The inflatable partition (100) as described in Clause 1, wherein the support member (106) is inflatable and fluidly connected to the inflatable frame (104).

[0099] Clause 15. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 14, wherein the support member (106) includes a first support member, a second support member, a third support member and a fourth support member, wherein each of the first support member (106), the second support member (106), the third support member (106) and the fourth support member (106) extends perpendicular to the inflatable frame (104).

[0100] Clause 16. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 15, wherein the first support member (106), the second support member (106), the third support member (106) and the fourth support member (106) are evenly distributed along the bottom (104D) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0101] Clause 17. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 1, wherein when the inflatable frame (104) is inflated, the inflatable frame (104) has a uniform diameter around the periphery of the flexible membrane (102).

[0102] Clause 18. The inflatable partition (100) according to Clause 1 further includes an inflation mechanism (130) comprising a battery, a motor coupled to the battery and a turbine coupled to the motor, and the inflatable frame (104) can be inflated by the inflation mechanism (130).

[0103] Clause 19. The inflatable partition (100) as described in Clause 1, wherein the inflatable frame (104) can be inflated by one or more of an external pump, a fan and a compressed air cylinder.

[0104] Article 20. A means of transport comprising:

[0105] A main body having an inner surface (251); and

[0106] Inflatable partition (100), comprising:

[0107] Flexible membrane (102);

[0108] An inflatable frame (104) extending along the periphery of a flexible membrane (102) has an inner edge (114) and an outer edge (124) adjacent to the flexible membrane (102). The inflatable frame (104) includes a first side (104A), a second side (104B) opposite to the first side (104A), an upper portion (104C) connecting the first side (104A) and the second side (104B), and a bottom portion (104D) opposite to the upper portion (104C). The inflatable frame (104) also includes a sealing mechanism (120) extending along at least a portion (128) of the outer edge (124), wherein the inflatable frame (104) is capable of being inflated between a first state and a second state.

[0109] Support member (106) connected to the inflatable frame (104); and

[0110] A first structural member (108) and a second structural member (109), wherein each of the first structural member and the second structural member is connected to an inflatable frame (104) and extends vertically from the upper part (104C) of the inflatable frame (104) to the bottom (104D), and the first structural member and the second structural member define an opening (111) in an inflatable partition (100).

[0111] Clause 21. The vehicle as described in Clause 20, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing mechanism (120) extending along a first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) and a second sealing mechanism (120) extending along a second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0112] Clause 22. The vehicle as described in Clause 21, wherein the first sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced apart from the first sealing member (121).

[0113] Clause 23. The vehicle according to Clause 22, wherein the first structural member and the second sealing member are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edge (124) of the inflatable frame (104), and each of the first sealing member and the second sealing member is configured to frictionally engage with the surface (251) such that the inflatable partition (100) is releasably secured to the inner surface (251).

[0114] Clause 24. The vehicle as described in Clause 23, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a third sealing mechanism (120) extending along the upper portion (104C) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0115] Clause 25. The vehicle described in Clause 24, wherein the first sealing member and the second sealing member are made of silicone rubber.

[0116] Clause 26. The vehicle according to Clause 20, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) includes a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced apart from the first sealing member (121), and the first and second sealing members are configured to frictionally engage with the inner surface (251) when the inflatable frame (104) is inflated, such that a negative pressure condition exists between the inflatable frame (104) and the inner surface (251).

[0117] Clause 27. The vehicle described in Clause 20, wherein the flexible membrane (102) is transparent.

[0118] Clause 28. The vehicle described in Clause 20, wherein the flexible membrane (102) is foldable.

[0119] Clause 29. The vehicle according to Clause 20, wherein the flexible membrane (102) includes a first flexible membrane (102) extending from the inner edge (114) of a first side (104A) of an inflatable frame (104) to a first structural member (108), a second flexible membrane (102) extending from the first structural member (108), a third flexible membrane (102) extending from a second structural member (109), and a fourth flexible member extending from the inner edge (114) of a second side (104B) of an inflatable frame (104) to the second structural member (109), and the second and third flexible membranes are releasably coupled together to extend across an opening (111).

[0120] Clause 30. The vehicle as described in Clause 20, wherein the inflatable frame (104) is capable of being inflated between a first state including an uninflated state and a second state including an inflated state.

[0121] Clause 31. The vehicle as described in Clause 20, wherein the support member (106) is inflatable and fluidly connected to the inflatable frame (104).

[0122] Clause 32. The vehicle as described in Clause 31, wherein the support member (106) includes a first support member, a second support member, a third support member and a fourth support member, wherein each of the first support member (106), the second support member (106), the third support member (106) and the fourth support member (106) extends perpendicular to the inflatable frame (104).

[0123] Clause 33. The vehicle as described in Clause 32, wherein the first support member (106), the second support member (106), the third support member (106) and the fourth support member (106) are evenly distributed along the bottom (104D) of the inflatable frame (104).

[0124] Clause 34. The vehicle as described in Clause 20, wherein when the inflatable frame (104) is inflated, the inflatable frame (104) has a uniform diameter around the periphery of the flexible membrane (102).

[0125] Clause 35. The vehicle as described in Clause 20, wherein the inflatable partition (100) further includes an inflation mechanism (130) comprising a battery, a motor coupled to the battery and a turbine coupled to the motor, and the inflatable frame (104) can be inflated by the inflation mechanism (130).

[0126] Clause 36. The vehicle described in Clause 20, wherein the inflatable frame (104) can be inflated by one or more of an external pump, a fan and a compressed air cylinder.

[0127] Clause 37. A method (700) for establishing a temporary barrier, comprising:

[0128] An inflatable partition (100) is provided, the inflatable partition (100) including a flexible membrane (102) and an inflatable frame (104) extending along the periphery of the flexible membrane (102), the inflatable frame (104) having an inner edge (114) and an outer edge (124) adjacent to the flexible membrane (102), the inflatable frame (104) including a first side (104A), a second side (104B) opposite to the first side (104A), and a connection between the first side (104A) and the second side (104B). The upper part (104C) of B) and the bottom part (104D) opposite to the upper part (104C), the inflatable frame (104) also includes a first sealing mechanism (120) extending along the outer edge (124) of the first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) and a second sealing mechanism (120) extending along the outer edge (124) of the second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104), wherein the inflatable frame (104) is capable of being inflated between the first state and the second state;

[0129] The inflatable partition (100) is unfolded from the folded configuration to the unfolded configuration;

[0130] Position the inflatable partition (100) at the desired location of the temporary barrier such that a first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) is adjacent to the first surface (251), and a second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104) is adjacent to the second surface (251); and

[0131] Inflate the inflatable frame (104) of the inflatable partition (100) such that the first sealing mechanism (120) is frictionally engaged with the first surface (251) and the second sealing mechanism (120) is frictionally engaged with the second surface (251).

[0132] Clause 38. The method (700) according to Clause 37, wherein inflating the inflatable frame (104) of the inflatable partition (100) comprises activating an air pump coupled to the flexible membrane (102) and fluidly coupled to the inflatable frame (104).

[0133] Clause 39. The method (700) according to Clause 37 further includes forming negative pressure conditions between a first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) and a first surface (251) and between a second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104) and a second surface (251).

[0134] While exemplary embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are not intended to describe all possible forms included in the claims. The language used in this specification is descriptive rather than restrictive, and it should be understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. As previously stated, features of various embodiments may be combined to form further exemplary aspects of this disclosure that may not be explicitly described or shown. While various embodiments may be described as providing an advantage or preference over other embodiments or prior art implementations in terms of one or more desired characteristics, those skilled in the art will recognize that one or more features or characteristics may be compromised to achieve desired overall system properties, depending on the specific application and implementation. These properties may include, but are not limited to, cost, strength, durability, lifecycle cost, merchantability, appearance, packaging, size, suitability, weight, manufacturability, ease of assembly, etc. Therefore, embodiments described as less desirable than other embodiments or prior art implementations in relation to one or more characteristics are not outside the scope of this disclosure and are desirable for a particular application.

Claims

1. A means of transportation, comprising: A main body having an inner surface (251); as well as Inflatable partition (100) includes: Flexible membrane (102); An inflatable frame (104) extending along the periphery of the flexible membrane (102) has an inner edge (114) and an outer edge (124) adjacent to the flexible membrane (102). The inflatable frame (104) includes a first side (104A), a second side (104B) opposite to the first side (104A), an upper portion (104C) connecting the first side (104A) and the second side (104B), and a portion (104C) connected to the upper portion (104A). 04C) At the opposite bottom (104D), the inflatable frame (104) further includes a sealing mechanism (120) extending along at least a portion (128) of the outer edge (124), wherein the inflatable frame (104) is inflatable between a first state and a second state, and wherein the inflatable frame (104) has a varying diameter around the periphery of the flexible membrane (102), the varying diameter gradually decreasing from the bottom to the top of the inflatable partition (100); Support member (106) connected to the inflatable frame (104); and A first structural member (108) and a second structural member (109), wherein each of the first structural member and the second structural member is connected to the inflatable frame (104) and extends vertically from the upper part (104C) of the inflatable frame (104) to the bottom part (104D), and the first structural member and the second structural member define an opening (111) in the inflatable partition (100).

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) comprises a first sealing mechanism (120) extending along the first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) and a second sealing mechanism (120) extending along the second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104).

3. The vehicle according to claim 2, wherein the first sealing mechanism (120) comprises a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced apart from the first sealing member (121).

4. The vehicle according to claim 3, wherein the first sealing member and the second sealing member are flexible strips extending outward from the outer edge (124) of the inflatable frame (104), and each of the first sealing member and the second sealing member is configured to frictionally engage with the surface (251) such that the inflatable partition (100) is releasably secured to the inner surface (251).

5. The vehicle according to claim 4, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) comprises a third sealing mechanism (120) extending along the upper portion (104C) of the inflatable frame (104).

6. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the sealing mechanism (120) comprises a first sealing member (121) and a second sealing member (122) spaced apart from the first sealing member (121), and the first sealing member and the second sealing member are configured to frictionally engage with the inner surface (251) when the inflatable frame (104) is inflated, such that a negative pressure condition exists between the inflatable frame (104) and the inner surface (251).

7. The vehicle according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the flexible membrane (102) comprises a first flexible membrane (102) extending from the inner edge (114) of the first side (104A) of the inflatable frame (104) to the first structural member (108), a second flexible membrane (102) extending from the first structural member (108), a third flexible membrane (102) extending from the second structural member (109), and a fourth flexible member extending from the inner edge (114) of the second side (104B) of the inflatable frame (104) to the second structural member (109), and the second flexible membrane and the third flexible membrane are releasably coupled together to extend across the opening (111).

8. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the inflatable frame (104) is capable of inflating between a first state including an uninflated state and a second state including an inflated state.

9. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the support member (106) is inflatable and fluidly connected to the inflatable frame (104).

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