Modular Inflatable Connectors for Rapidly Deployable Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inflatable structures lack modularity and ease of assembly, storage, and rapid deployment, limiting their versatility and applicability in various industries.
Innovation Solution
A modular system of interchangeable connectors and inflatable members that can be easily assembled and disassembled, allowing for rapid expansion and configuration into stable structures with integrated or separate connectors, valves, and various functional components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If inflatable structures are made non-modular with fixed designs, then manufacturing and structural integrity are simplified, but versatility and adaptability to different applications are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The inflatable structure is divided into separate modular components including inflatable members, connectors, valves, and functional modules that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each component serves a specific function and can be reconfigured for different applications, enabling versatility without requiring complex integrated designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design provides universal functionality by enabling multiple connection configurations and accommodating various inflatable member arrangements. The same basic connector components can be used across different structure types and applications, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability.
2Productivity
If inflatable structures are designed as single-piece units, then assembly is simplified, but storage efficiency and deployment speed are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is segmented into pre-assembled modular units that can be stored in compact configurations and rapidly deployed by connecting predefined components. This segmentation enables faster deployment compared to single-piece units while keeping assembly procedures standardized and manageable through repeated use of common connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Components are pre-configured and pre-assembled into modular units before deployment. Connectors, valves, and functional modules are prepared in advance and can be quickly attached to inflatable members, eliminating the need for complex on-site assembly and significantly reducing deployment time.
3Ease of repair
If inflatable structures use integrated connectors built into the inflatable members, then the number of separate components is reduced, but ease of repair and component replacement is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Connectors and valves are extracted as separate removable components from the inflatable members, allowing them to be independently replaced if damaged or worn. This extraction improves repairability by enabling component-level replacement rather than requiring replacement of entire inflatable members, while the standardized connector design keeps the overall component count manageable.
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
Enables easy storage, rapid deployment, and customizable structures suitable for diverse applications, including temporary shelters, construction molds, and recreational uses, with enhanced stability and integration of features like lighting and plumbing.
Implementation Method 1
The inflatable member can be inflated using a liquid or gas (collectively referred to hereafter as a 'fluid') in order to move from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A modular inflatable structure can be formed using inflatable members that are interconnected together at respective joints. The inflatable member can have a connector integrated therewith or be coupled to a separate connector that interconnects adjacent inflatable members. The connector can have flexible and/or rigid components. The structure can have an assembled position in which the inflatable member is coupled with an adjacent inflatable member and flow is permitted therebetween. The structure can be inflated to form a support or framework that can be used in a variety of applications and industries.