Inflatable Igloo Shelter for Cold-Weather Operaions.
Abstract
The paper describes the design, fabrication and testing of an inflatable igloo shelter for cold-weather operations. Designed primarily to provide a lightweight, portable shelter for divers and operators of unmanned vehicles engaged in undersea search, rescue and salvage operations in the Arctic, the igloo is made of a sandwich fabric consisting of two layers of neoprene-coated nylon clogh tied together by a multitude of nylon threads. When the space between the two is pressurized with gas, they move apart to the full extent of the threads. Because the threads are closely spaced the fabric can endure a considerable gas pressure and when inflated is nearly as rigid as 1/4-inch-thick plywood. Two layers of sandwich fabric form the igloo wall, while a single layer serves as the floor. Each layer is three inches thick when inflated. The outer layer can be filled with water and allowed to freeze, creating a heavy capping of ice that anchors the igloo in very high winds.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- ADA005363
Entities
People
- Hudson L. C. Hascall
- Jerry D. Stachiw
- Marc Sorensen
Organizations
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center