Inflatable Canopy Tunnel Structural System for Evacuation Rafts
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current inflatable slide raft evacuation systems face increased manufacturing costs and weight due to metal tube designs used for canopy support, which replace traditional canopy stubs, leading to higher pack density and costs.
Innovation Solution
An inflatable canopy assembly with a tunnel structural system integrated into the canopy cover, forming a frame structure upon inflation, using an inflation fitting and materials like polyester or PTFE fabric, which provides structural support without the need for additional metal components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal tube designs are used to replace canopy stubs for structural support, then structural support capability is improved, but weight and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an inflatable tunnel structural system that employs pneumatic pressure to create and maintain the canopy's frame structure. The tunnel sections are inflated to provide rigid support, eliminating the need for heavy metal tubes while achieving the required structural strength through air pressure containment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes flexible inflatable tunnel sections made from lightweight fabric or polymer materials to form the structural frame. These flexible shells, when inflated, provide the necessary structural support and can be easily deflated and packed when not in use, significantly reducing weight compared to rigid metal tube designs.
2Strength
If metal tube designs are used to replace canopy stubs for structural support, then structural support capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable tunnel structural system replaces expensive metal tube manufacturing and assembly processes with simpler pneumatic inflation mechanisms. The tunnel sections can be manufactured as flat packages and only require inflation to achieve their structural form, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of flexible fabric or polymer materials for the tunnel structural system reduces material costs compared to metal tubes. These materials are generally less expensive to manufacture and process, and the inflatable design eliminates the need for complex metal forming, welding, and assembly operations.
3Strength
If metal tubes are added to the slide raft system, then structural support is improved, but pack density increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable tunnel sections are designed to collapse into compact forms when deflated, allowing them to be packed into small spaces on the slide raft. This flexible shell design enables the structural support system to occupy minimal storage volume when not in use, unlike rigid metal tubes that would require significant packing space.
Solution Approach 2:
The tunnel structural system transitions from a static, space-consuming metal tube configuration to a dynamic inflatable structure that can be deflated and packed compactly. This dynamic capability allows the system to occupy minimal space during storage and deployment, then expand to provide full structural support when needed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The inflatable canopy assembly reduces weight and manufacturing costs by using inflatable materials to create a structural frame, offering a lightweight and cost-effective solution for slide raft evacuation systems while maintaining necessary structural support and shelter for passengers.
Implementation Method 1
a tunnel structural system integrated into the canopy cover, forming a frame structure upon inflation
Data Source
AI summary
An inflatable canopy assembly includes an inflatable canopy cover, and a tunnel structural system integrated into the inflatable canopy cover. The tunnel structural system is positioned to provide a frame structure to the inflatable canopy assembly.