Inflatable Mast Deployment via Internal Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mast deployment systems face issues with mechanical stability, deployment kinematics, and storage efficiency due to the use of rigid materials, which result in high retracted height ratios and lack of interchangeability, as well as insufficient waterproofing and mechanical rigidity in inflatable structures.
Innovation Solution
A motorized reel system with a braking mechanism and inflatable column structure that uses fluid pressurization for deployment and automatic folding, featuring a pressure regulation system and anchoring means to ensure stability and efficient vertical deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If rigid materials are used for mast structures, then mechanical stability is improved, but storage efficiency deteriorates due to high retracted height ratios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an inflatable column structure made of flexible composite material that can be compressed into a compact spool for storage and inflated to full height during deployment. This flexible structure replaces rigid materials, achieving both compact storage volume and operational stability through internal pressure support.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in internal pressure parameters to transform the structural properties of the column. When inflated, internal pressure provides mechanical rigidity and stability; when deflated, the structure becomes compliant and compact for storage. This parameter change enables the structure to adapt between storage and operational states.
2Volume of moving object
If inflatable structures are used to reduce storage volume, then storage efficiency is improved, but mechanical rigidity deteriorates due to low internal pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs high internal pressure (several bars) within the inflatable column to generate sufficient mechanical rigidity during operation. This high pressure state transforms the flexible structure into a rigid support element capable of bearing loads, while allowing compact storage when deflated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials consisting of a flexible outer layer and an internal pressure support system. This composite structure combines the flexibility needed for compact storage with the rigidity provided by internal pressure, achieving both storage efficiency and operational mechanical strength.
3Stability of the object's composition
If permanent inflation systems are used for inflatable structures, then structural stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-braking reel mechanism that automatically maintains structural stability during operation without requiring continuous external control. The braking system engages automatically when the column is inflated, providing passive stability maintenance and reducing the need for complex active control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent separates the inflation function from the stability maintenance function. The inflation system provides temporary structure, while a dedicated braking system handles stability control. This extraction of functions reduces overall system complexity by allowing each subsystem to be optimized independently.
4Volume of moving object
If manual nesting operations are required for mast elements, then storage compactness is improved, but deployment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-deploying mechanism where the inflatable column automatically unspools and inflates when activated. The reel mechanism and pressure system work together to deploy the structure without manual nesting operations, reducing deployment time while maintaining compact storage when deflated.
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 system achieves continuous vertical deployment with improved mechanical stability, reduced storage volume, and enhanced reliability by utilizing the inflatable column's internal pressure for tension and stability, while maintaining structural integrity under external forces.
Implementation Method 1
the deployment of the column being done by pressurization of the inflatable structure which constitutes it
Implementation Method 2
the braking of the reel being generated automatically on the axis by braking passive of the reel
Implementation Method 3
a pressure relief valve allowing the evacuation of said fluid from the inflatable structure during the folding phase of said structure on said reel
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The system has a motorized and movement controlled reel (2) receiving a vertical inflated structure i.e. inflated column (3). The structure has a fixation unit in its lower part (3i). An anchoring unit is provided in an upper part (3s) of the structure to anchor an object e.g. equipment (8) such as antenna, to be displaced. A fluid injection device injects a low pressure fluid e.g. water, in the structure using an inflated tube (6) and a pressure regulation system (5). A guiding device (4) guides the structure, where the structure is made of coated polyester fibers and elastomer coating. An independent claim is also included for a method for permitting displacement of an object.