GB1285044A - Pneumatic shell structures constructed from synthetic resin films and a method for constructing the same - Google Patents

Abstract

1285044 Seaming non-metallic sheet material; laminates TORAY INDUSTRIES Inc 16 July 1969 [25 July 1968 1 Aug 1968 26 Dec 1968 (2) 20 Jan 1969] 35724/69 Headings B5K and B5N [Also in Division E1] A pneumatic shell structure 1, Fig. 1B, comprises a pair of flexible walls 4, 5 secured to a peripheral frame 3 to enclose an airtight chamber 6, each flexible wall comprising an airtight layer 10, Fig. 1C, innermost of the structure, an outer layer 7 and one or more intermediate layers 8, 9 each composed of long rectangular shaped synthetic resin films with mutually superimposed but non-adhered edges. The innermost layers 10 may be formed of long rectangular shaped films adhered at their superimposed edges 13, whilst the outer layers 7 may also be similarly constructed except that the adhesion between the superimposed edges is optional. When several intermediate layers are provided the films in alternate layers 8, 9 traverse in directions mutually at right angles. The upper composite wall 4 may comprise a film layer containing an ultra-violet ray absorber and/or intercepting agent, and a layer having a surface on which a sputtered metal layer is formed may be provided inside the ultra-violet absorption film layer to protect the structure from heat rays. The structure may comprise internal reinforcements 13, Fig. 3B. The Specification describes numerous arrangements, (Figs. 10 to 17 inclusive) for sealing the walls 4, 5 to the frame to prevent water penetration. In Fig. 10 the watertight seal is provided by the bottom member 35 and top member 37 secured to the wall 4 by adhesive at 38. In Fig. 12 sealed connection to the frame 31 is achieved by fastening member 32 and packings 47a, 47b, 47c. In Fig. 14 the clamping bolt 14 is sealed by an encircling member 54 filled with sealing material 55. In Fig. 16 the securing means is covered by a sealing paint layer 55a selected from acrylic polymer, polyvinyl chloride or epoxy resins. When the outer layer is airtight, means to ventilate the air contained between the componental layers of the walls 4, 5 may be provided, Figs. 6, 7 (not shown). A construction for sealing the corners of the frame is also described, Figs. 20 to 21D inclusive (not shown). The films may be formed preferably of polyethylene terephthalate or hard polyvinyl chloride, or of polythene, polypropylene, polycarbonate or ethylene-vinylacetate copolymer.