Technology & Mechanics Overview of Air-Inflated Fabric Structures
Abstract
Air-inflated fabric structures are categorized as pre-tensioned structures and are uniquely capable of many advantages not available with traditional structures. These include lighter weight designs, rapid and self-erecting deployments, enhanced mobility, large deployed-to- packaged volume ratios, fail-safe collapse and optional rigidification. Research and development in pursuit of air-inflated structures can be traced to space, military, commercial and marine applications. Examples include air ships, weather balloons, inflatable radomes, shelters, pneumatic muscles, inflatable boats, bridging, and energy absorbers such as automotive air bags and landing cushions for space vehicles. Recent advances in high performance fibers and improved textile manufacturing methods have fostered emerging interests in air-inflated fabric structures which are increasingly designed as reliable alternatives to conventional structures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 04, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA462232
Entities
People
- Paul V. Cavallaro
Organizations
- Naval Undersea Warfare Center