Expandable rigid structure

Details Expandable rigid structure Expandable rigid structure

1993-05-05

1995-07-04

Ryan, Patrick J.

Stock material or miscellaneous articles

Sheet including cover or casing

Foamed or expanded material encased

428 72, 428 75, 428 76, 428 83, 428221, 244159, 244163, 52 211, 521691, 521696, 5216914, B32B 900

Patent

active

054298512

ABSTRACT:
A rigid habitat structure is provided that is fabricated in an axially compressed condition so that it occupies less volume before it is expanded upon deployment. In a preferred embodiment, the structure is fabricated with a pleated metal skin forming a bellows-like structure. The structure may further comprise structural hoops and stringers connected to the metal skin. The structure may be transported to its desired location in its compressed condition and then deployed by inflating the structure to axially expand the bellows, whereby the metal skin and stringers are stretched into a straightened condition. Inflation may be continued past the elastic limits of the stringers and skin, thereby stiffening them in their expanded condition and creating a rigid expanded structure. Axially expandable micrometeorite shielding and thermal insulation are also provided that can be installed on the compressed structure and that expand along with the structure during deployment.

REFERENCES:
patent: 5058330 (1991-10-01), Chow
patent: 5086999 (1192-02-01), Mullen

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