Collapsible Containment Airlock with Welded Plastic Shell
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containment airlocks with rigid frames are difficult to install and disassemble, exposing operators to contamination risks and requiring significant time and resources, while their adhesive-based shells can be prone to separation issues and inadequate containment quality.
Innovation Solution
A containment airlock with a self-supporting, collapsible frame and a flexible, removably attached shell that can be easily expanded or collapsed, reducing the need for adhesives and allowing for modular assembly and quick installation/disassembly, featuring articulated reinforcing rods and a dust-tight, welded plastic shell for enhanced safety and containment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid frame with adhesive-based shell is used, then structural strength is provided, but installation and disassembly become difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple planar elements that can be independently assembled and collapsed. Each plane frame consists of modular segments connected by hinges, allowing the structure to be broken down into manageable units for rapid assembly and disassembly while maintaining overall structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The frame transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic collapsible structure through the introduction of hinged connections. The planar elements can rotate and fold relative to each other, enabling the frame to collapse into a compact configuration for easy storage and rapid deployment without sacrificing strength during the extended work position
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid frame is used, then structural stability is maintained, but the frame cannot be easily collapsed for storage
Solution Approach 1:
The frame incorporates hinged connections that allow planar elements to rotate and fold, transforming the structure from a fixed rigid form to a dynamic collapsible system. The hinges maintain structural stability when the frame is in its extended work position while enabling easy collapse into a compact configuration for storage and transport
3Reliability
If adhesive-based shell is used, then containment is provided, but adhesive separation reduces containment quality
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive layer is completely removed from the shell construction. Instead of using adhesives to bond vinyl layers, the invention employs a welded plastic shell construction where thermoplastic layers are joined by welding processes, eliminating the adhesive separation problem entirely and providing more reliable containment
4Ease of manufacture
If the frame is made decontaminatable for reuse, then cost is reduced, but decontamination is difficult and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is constructed from materials and in a manner that facilitates easy decontamination and potential disposal after use. The modular planar element design with hinged connections allows for simple cleaning access and the possibility of replacing the entire frame structure rather than attempting complex decontamination procedures, treating the frame as a disposable or easily replaceable component
Data Source
AI summary
A containment airlock, in particular an airlock for intervention on a site likely to be contaminated with radiation, asbestos and biological and/or chemical agents. The containment airlock includes a self-supporting frame and a flexible containment shell. The shell is configured to be assembled with the frame. The frame is articulated so as to be extensible between a folded storage position and an extended intervention position. The frame includes articulated reinforcement rods. The articulated reinforcement rods include rigid segments and at least one intermediate articulation connecting the segments.