WO2023118876A1 - Rapidly deployable structure - Google Patents

Rapidly deployable structure Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023118876A1
WO2023118876A1 PCT/GB2022/053356 GB2022053356W WO2023118876A1 WO 2023118876 A1 WO2023118876 A1 WO 2023118876A1 GB 2022053356 W GB2022053356 W GB 2022053356W WO 2023118876 A1 WO2023118876 A1 WO 2023118876A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
structural members
inflator
configuration
chemical
expanded configuration
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2022/053356
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Daniel Benjamin BLACK
Richard CLARIDGE
Adam TODD
Original Assignee
Pa Knowledge Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Pa Knowledge Limited filed Critical Pa Knowledge Limited
Publication of WO2023118876A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023118876A1/en

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/35—Extraordinary methods of construction, e.g. lift-slab, jack-block
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
    • E01D—CONSTRUCTION OF BRIDGES, ELEVATED ROADWAYS OR VIADUCTS; ASSEMBLY OF BRIDGES
    • E01D15/00—Movable or portable bridges; Floating bridges
    • E01D15/14—Floating bridges, e.g. pontoon bridges
    • E01D15/20—Floating bridges, e.g. pontoon bridges collapsible, expandable, inflatable or the like with main load supporting structure consisting only of non-rigid members
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
    • E04B1/16—Structures made from masses, e.g. of concrete, cast or similarly formed in situ with or without making use of additional elements, such as permanent forms, substructures to be coated with load-bearing material
    • E04B1/167—Structures made from masses, e.g. of concrete, cast or similarly formed in situ with or without making use of additional elements, such as permanent forms, substructures to be coated with load-bearing material with permanent forms made of particular materials, e.g. layered products
    • E04B1/168—Structures made from masses, e.g. of concrete, cast or similarly formed in situ with or without making use of additional elements, such as permanent forms, substructures to be coated with load-bearing material with permanent forms made of particular materials, e.g. layered products flexible
    • E04B1/169—Structures made from masses, e.g. of concrete, cast or similarly formed in situ with or without making use of additional elements, such as permanent forms, substructures to be coated with load-bearing material with permanent forms made of particular materials, e.g. layered products flexible inflatable
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/20—Tents or canopies, in general inflatable, e.g. shaped, strengthened or supported by fluid pressure
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q17/00—Devices for absorbing waves radiated from an antenna; Combinations of such devices with active antenna elements or systems
    • H01Q17/005—Devices for absorbing waves radiated from an antenna; Combinations of such devices with active antenna elements or systems using woven or wound filaments; impregnated nets or clothes
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
    • E04H15/00—Tents or canopies, in general
    • E04H15/20—Tents or canopies, in general inflatable, e.g. shaped, strengthened or supported by fluid pressure
    • E04H2015/206—Details of inflation devices, e.g. valves, connections to fluid pressure source

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates to rapidly deployable structures.
  • the rapidly deployable structure may be civil engineering structure such as a bridge, dam, or roadblock, or a shield, or a shelter, or barrier, or vehicle, such as a boat.
  • a structure such as a bridge, dam, roadblock, shelter, or barrier.
  • Minimising the time taken to erect such structures is paramount to minimising detection by hostile forces/ reducing the opportunity for hostile forces to disrupt or prevent the deployment and/or utilisation of the structure.
  • such structures built, and inflated by, conventional means do not allow for: a desirably rapid deployment, suitable loadbearing capability, nor suitability to a hostile endowment .
  • a rapidly deployable structure comprising: one or more structural members configurable between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration; at least one chemical inflator configured to rapidly expand the one or more structural members at least partially between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration by chemical reaction; wherein when the one or more structural members are in the expanded configuration, the rapidly deployable structure is able to support at least its own weight.
  • the chemical inflator rapidly expands the one or more structural members by producing large volumes of gas.
  • the chemical inflator comprises one or more explosive compounds.
  • the chemical inflator comprises an azide compound, which may be sodium azide.
  • the structure comprises an additional inflator configured to expand the one or more structural members, relatively slowly compared to the chemical inflator, at least partially between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration by chemical reaction.
  • the rate of expansion by the additional inflator is controllable.
  • the additional inflator comprises an air pump.
  • the additional inflator is configured to expand the one or more structural members from the compressed configuration to a first intermediate configuration between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration and/or from a second intermediate configuration to the expanded configuration.
  • the chemical inflator is configured to expand the one or more structural members from the first intermediate configuration and/or up to the second intermediate configuration.
  • the additional inflator is configured to be initiated in the event of a puncture or loss of pressure to maintain the one or more structures in the expanded configuration.
  • the one or more structural members comprises an exterior wall and the one or more structural members may comprise one or more interior walls.
  • the one or more interior walls define an internal cellular structure comprising at least two cells.
  • each cell comprises a respective chemical inflator.
  • at least a subset of the one or more structural members is formed from a material resistant to puncture, abrasion and/or tearing.
  • the material is an aramid fibre or carbon fibre material.
  • the structure further comprises a reflective or retroreflective member.
  • the reflective or retroreflective member comprises a reflective or retroreflective material on the surface of the structure.
  • the reflective or retroreflective material comprises Mylar.
  • the reflective or retroreflective material comprise a metallic film.
  • the reflective or retroreflective comprises retroreflective glass micro beads.
  • the structure further comprises a radiation-absorbing member.
  • the reflective or retroreflective member is reflective to visible, IR, microwave radiation, and/or radio wave radiation.
  • the reflective or retroreflective member is configured to prevent the passage of EM data
  • the expanded one or more structural members are configured to be filled with a structure stabilising material, such as a rapidly expanding and setting foam, a hard setting material, such as concrete or epoxy.
  • a structure stabilising material such as a rapidly expanding and setting foam, a hard setting material, such as concrete or epoxy.
  • the structure in the compressed configuration is contained, such that it can be airdropped or canister launched.
  • the structure comprises a self-destruction mechanism, configured to cause irreparable damage so as to render the structure unusable.
  • the self-destruction mechanism comprises an explosive charge.
  • the self-destruction mechanism comprises a mechanism for rupturing the one or more structural members.
  • the structure is a civil engineering structure.
  • the structure is a bridge, dam, or roadblock.
  • the structure is a vehicle, which may be a boat.
  • the structure is a barrier or a shield.
  • Fig. 1 shows first configuration of a first example structure
  • Fig. 2 shows a second configuration of the first example structure
  • Fig. 3 shows a third configuration of the first example structure
  • Fig. 4 shows a fourth configuration of the first example structure
  • Fig. 5 shows a variation of the first example structure
  • Fig. 6 shows a first view of a second example structure
  • Fig. 7 shows a second view of a second example structure
  • Fig. 8 shows a third example structure
  • Fig. 9 shows a variation of the second example structure.
  • Figs. 1 to 4 show a first example rapidly deployable structure 1 according to the disclosure.
  • the structure 1 in this example is a bridge is configured to fill a void to enable one or more vehicles to cross.
  • the structure comprises structural members 3 that are configurable between a compressed configuration shown in Fig. 1 and an expanded configuration shown in Fig. 4.
  • the structural members 3 may inflatable, such that they are deflated in the compressed configuration and inflated in the expanded configuration. In the compressed configuration the structural members 3 may be slack and in the expanded configuration the structural members 3 may be under tension.
  • the rapidly deployable structure 1 should be able to support at least its own weight.
  • the structure 1 can support a vehicle weighing around 40 tonnes.
  • the structural members are folded, rolled or otherwise arranged to reduce the space occupied thereby.
  • the structural members 3 may be retained in a casing 2, as shown in Fig. 1.
  • the casing 2 is preferably openable to allow the structural members 3 to inflate, as shown in Figs. 2 to 4.
  • the casing 2 may instead be reputable such that it ruptures when the structural members 3 inflate.
  • the casing may be a canister, for example.
  • the casing may be formed form a hard material, such as metal or plastic to protect the structural members 3.
  • Figs. 2 to 4 shows various stages of inflation of the structural members 3, namely a first intermediate configuration, a second intermediate configuration and an expanded configuration respectively. Between these configurations tension on the structural members 3 increases.
  • the structure 1 additionally comprises at least one chemical inflator 5.
  • the chemical inflator 5 is configured to rapidly expand structural members 3 by chemical reaction.
  • the chemical inflator rapidly expands the one or more structural members by producing large volumes of gas.
  • the chemical inflator 5 may comprise one or more chemical compounds.
  • An azide compound may be used, e.g. sodium azide.
  • An additional accelerant may also be used.
  • rapidly reacting chemical compounds are possible including traditional explosives e.g. gunpowder, ANFO etc.
  • the structural members 3 may comprise one or more pressure release vents configured to vent gas when the pressure reaches a predefined threshold pressure. This may prevent damage to the structural members 3 in the event of overpressure from the chemical inflator 5.
  • the pressure release vents may vent automatically at the threshold pressure, e.g. the vents may be forced open at or above the threshold pressure but remain closed below the threshold pressure.
  • the chemical inflator 4 is configured to at least partially expand the structural members 3 between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration.
  • the structure 1 may comprise an additional inflator 6 configured to expand the one or more structural members 3.
  • the additional inflator 6 may use non-chemical means, such as an air pump, e.g. an electric pump. Compressed gas is also possible.
  • the additional inflator 6 may expand the structural members 3 relatively slowly compared to the chemical inflator 5.
  • the additional inflator 6 may be integrated with of the structural members 3, as shown in Fig. 2. However, in alternative examples, the additional inflator may be a separate device that can be connected to (and optionally disconnected from) the structural members 3. In a specific example, the additional inflator 6 may be housed by a remote vehicle.
  • the additional inflator 6 may partially expand the structural members 3 between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration in conjunction with the chemical inflator 3.
  • the additional inflator 6 may configured to expand the structural members 3 from the compressed configuration to the first intermediate configuration, instead of the chemical inflator 5.
  • the additional inflator 6 may configured to expand the structural members 3 from the second intermediate configuration to the expanded configuration, instead of the chemical inflator 5.
  • the chemical inflator 5 may be configured to expand the structural members 3 after reaching the first intermediate configuration and/or before reaching the second intermediate configuration. Not using the chemical inflator 5 at either the start or end of inflation and using a slower additional inflator 6 instead may mitigate damage to the structural members 3 from the rapid expansion by the chemical inflator 5 around the compressed configuration when frictional forces may be high or around the expanded configuration when tensional stress may be high.
  • the first intermediate configuration may correspond to an inflation of between around 10% and 30%, e.g. around 20%.
  • the second intermediate configuration may correspond to an inflation of between around 70% and 90%, e.g. round 80%.
  • the chemical inflator 5 may operate from around 20% to 80% inflation.
  • the additional inflator 6 may be initiated in the event of a puncture or loss of pressure to the structure, in order to maintain the structural members 3 in the expanded configuration and load-bearing capability if required.
  • both the chemical inflator 5 and the additional inflator 6 can be operated, e.g. initiated remotely.
  • Fig. 5 shows a cross section through an example structure 1.
  • the structural members 3 may comprise an exterior wall 3 A.
  • the wall 3 A is airtight.
  • the structural members 3 may comprise internal walls 3B. This internal walls 3B may define an internal cellular structure comprising cells 4.
  • the cellular structure may improve the strength of the structure, e.g. to enable it to be more heavily loaded.
  • the cellular structure may increase the protection against damage, such as puncture.
  • the cellular structure may enable control of the expansion of the structure.
  • cells may control gas flow from one cell to another.
  • each cell may be individually inflatable, e.g. each cell comprised a respective chemical inflator 5.
  • the structural members 3 will preferably be formed from a material resistant to puncture, abrasion, and/or tearing, for example by projectiles such as incoming small arms rounds, or by contact with sharp or rough objects during or after expansion.
  • the material may be an aramid fibre material, for example, such as KevlarTM or TwaronTM.
  • the materials may be partially made from a carbon derived fibre such as carbon fibre.
  • the external wall 3A may be formed from a different material to the internal walls 3B for example.
  • at least the external wall 3A is formed from a material resistant to puncture, abrasion and/or tearing.
  • at least the internals wall 3B closest to the external walls 3A i.e.
  • the structure 1 may comprise a self-destruction mechanism, configured to cause irreparable damaged to the structure 1 so as to render the structure unusable.
  • the self-destruction mechanism may comprise an explosive charge.
  • the self-destruction mechanism comprises a mechanism for rupturing one or more of the structural members 3.
  • the expanded structural members 3 may be configured to be filled with a liquid or foam material which cures to provide structural stability without the need to maintain air pressure.
  • structure stabilising material may comprise a rapidly expanding and setting foam. This foam may be made from polyurethane.
  • the structure stabilising material comprises a hard setting material such as concrete or epoxy. Accordingly, the structure 1 may be strengthened further.
  • Figs. 6 and 7 show a second example rapidly deployable structure 10 according to the disclosure.
  • the structure 10 in this example is a shield or barrier.
  • the shield is configured to protect an asset as described further below.
  • the features described below are applicable to other structures, such as those described above or below.
  • the structure 10 may comprise a reflective or retroreflective member 7.
  • the reflective or retroreflective member 7 may comprise a reflective or retroreflective material on the external surface of the structure 10 (e.g. external wall 3 A).
  • a reflective or retroreflective material may be provided on one or more internal surfaces of the structure 10 (e.g. internal walls 3B).
  • a plurality of layers of reflective or retroreflective material may be provided, e.g. incrementally deeper within the structure 10.
  • the reflective or retroreflective material may comprise Mylar, for example.
  • the reflective or retroreflective material may comprise a reflective metallic film, for example.
  • the reflective or retroreflective may comprise retroreflective glass micro beads, for example.
  • the reflective or retroreflective member may be reflective to visible, IR, microwave radiation, and/or radio wave radiation or a combination thereof.
  • the reflective or retroreflective member may be configured to prevent the passage of electromagnetic data, as shown in Fig. 6.
  • the structure 10 may comprise a radiation-absorbing member (which may be arranged in a similar fashion to the reflective or retroreflective member 7).
  • the radiation absorbing member may comprise a radiation-absorbing material on the external surface of the structure 10 (e.g. external wall 3 A).
  • a radiation-absorbing material may be provided on one or more internal surfaces of the structure 10 (e.g. internal walls 3B).
  • a plurality of layers of radiation-absorbing material may be provided, e.g. incrementally deeper within the structure 10.
  • the radiationabsorbing material may be, for example, a Salisbury Screen type of structure or a frequency-selective surface.
  • the radiation-absorbing member may absorb visible, IR, microwave radiation, and/or radio wave radiation or a combination thereof.
  • a radiation-absorbing member may reduce or remove the likelihood of the structure 10 being visible, either to visual or electromagnetic detection (e.g. radar).
  • the radiation-absorbing member may be configured to prevent the passage of electromagnetic data.
  • the radiation-absorbing member may be configured to permit a selected frequency or range of frequencies to pass through the member. For example, if the structure is deployed around a radiation transmitter, receiver or transceiver (e.g. a radio antenna or radar system).
  • a radiation transmitter, receiver or transceiver e.g. a radio antenna or radar system.
  • the reflective or retroreflective member 7 and the radiation-absorbing member described above may both be used in a single structure.
  • Reflective and retroreflective properties may be used to locate a structure, e.g. by illuminating with a laser, or using a radar.
  • Fig. 9 shows a variation of the second example structure 10.
  • the structure 10 is not a standalone structure, as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, but may be attached to, or integrated with, another structure 30 or device.
  • the other structure 30 may be a vehicle.
  • a device may be an item of apparel or pack worn by a person.
  • Fig. 8 shows a third example structure 20.
  • the thirds example structure 20 is a vehicle, namely a boat.
  • the structure may comprise means for propelling the vehicle such as a motor.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Laminated Bodies (AREA)
  • Tents Or Canopies (AREA)

Abstract

A rapidly deployable structure is provided comprising: one or more structural members configurable between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration; at least one chemical inflator configured to rapidly expand the one or more structural members at least partially between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration by chemical reaction; wherein when the one or more structural members are in the expanded configuration, the rapidly deployable structure is able to support at least its own weight. The structure may be civil engineering structure such as a bridge, dam, or roadblock, or a shield, or a shelter, or barrier, or vehicle, such as a boat.

Description

RAPIDLY DEPLOYABLE STRUCTURE
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to rapidly deployable structures. In some examples, the rapidly deployable structure may be civil engineering structure such as a bridge, dam, or roadblock, or a shield, or a shelter, or barrier, or vehicle, such as a boat.
BACKGROUND ART
In hostile environments, such as combat environments, it may be desirable to erect a structure such as a bridge, dam, roadblock, shelter, or barrier. Minimising the time taken to erect such structures is paramount to minimising detection by hostile forces/ reducing the opportunity for hostile forces to disrupt or prevent the deployment and/or utilisation of the structure. At present, such structures built, and inflated by, conventional means do not allow for: a desirably rapid deployment, suitable loadbearing capability, nor suitability to a hostile endowment .
It is an aim of the present disclosure to at least partially address the above problems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to an aspect of the disclosure there is provided a rapidly deployable structure comprising: one or more structural members configurable between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration; at least one chemical inflator configured to rapidly expand the one or more structural members at least partially between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration by chemical reaction; wherein when the one or more structural members are in the expanded configuration, the rapidly deployable structure is able to support at least its own weight.
Optionally the chemical inflator rapidly expands the one or more structural members by producing large volumes of gas.
Optionally the chemical inflator comprises one or more explosive compounds. Optionally the chemical inflator comprises an azide compound, which may be sodium azide.
Optionally the structure comprises an additional inflator configured to expand the one or more structural members, relatively slowly compared to the chemical inflator, at least partially between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration by chemical reaction.
Optionally the rate of expansion by the additional inflator is controllable.
Optionally the additional inflator comprises an air pump.
Optionally the additional inflator is configured to expand the one or more structural members from the compressed configuration to a first intermediate configuration between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration and/or from a second intermediate configuration to the expanded configuration.
Optionally the chemical inflator is configured to expand the one or more structural members from the first intermediate configuration and/or up to the second intermediate configuration.
Optionally the additional inflator is configured to be initiated in the event of a puncture or loss of pressure to maintain the one or more structures in the expanded configuration.
Optionally the one or more structural members comprises an exterior wall and the one or more structural members may comprise one or more interior walls.
Optionally the one or more interior walls define an internal cellular structure comprising at least two cells.
Optionally each cell comprises a respective chemical inflator. Optionally at least a subset of the one or more structural members is formed from a material resistant to puncture, abrasion and/or tearing.
Optionally the material is an aramid fibre or carbon fibre material.
Optionally the structure further comprises a reflective or retroreflective member.
Optionally the reflective or retroreflective member comprises a reflective or retroreflective material on the surface of the structure.
Optionally the reflective or retroreflective material comprises Mylar.
Optionally the reflective or retroreflective material comprise a metallic film.
Optionally the reflective or retroreflective comprises retroreflective glass micro beads.
Optionally the structure further comprises a radiation-absorbing member.
Optionally the reflective or retroreflective member is reflective to visible, IR, microwave radiation, and/or radio wave radiation.
Optionally the reflective or retroreflective member is configured to prevent the passage of EM data
Optionally the expanded one or more structural members are configured to be filled with a structure stabilising material, such as a rapidly expanding and setting foam, a hard setting material, such as concrete or epoxy.
Optionally the structure in the compressed configuration is contained, such that it can be airdropped or canister launched.
Optionally the structure comprises a self-destruction mechanism, configured to cause irreparable damage so as to render the structure unusable. Optionally the self-destruction mechanism comprises an explosive charge.
Optionally the self-destruction mechanism comprises a mechanism for rupturing the one or more structural members.
Optionally the structure is a civil engineering structure.
Optionally the structure is a bridge, dam, or roadblock.
Optionally the structure is a vehicle, which may be a boat.
Optionally the structure is a barrier or a shield.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further features and advantages of the disclosure are described below by way of nonlimiting examples and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 shows first configuration of a first example structure;
Fig. 2 shows a second configuration of the first example structure;
Fig. 3 shows a third configuration of the first example structure;
Fig. 4 shows a fourth configuration of the first example structure;
Fig. 5 shows a variation of the first example structure;
Fig. 6 shows a first view of a second example structure;
Fig. 7 shows a second view of a second example structure;
Fig. 8 shows a third example structure; and
Fig. 9 shows a variation of the second example structure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Figs. 1 to 4 show a first example rapidly deployable structure 1 according to the disclosure. The structure 1 in this example is a bridge is configured to fill a void to enable one or more vehicles to cross. However, the features described below are applicable to other structures, such as those described below. As shown, the structure comprises structural members 3 that are configurable between a compressed configuration shown in Fig. 1 and an expanded configuration shown in Fig. 4. The structural members 3 may inflatable, such that they are deflated in the compressed configuration and inflated in the expanded configuration. In the compressed configuration the structural members 3 may be slack and in the expanded configuration the structural members 3 may be under tension.
When the structural members 32 are in the expanded configuration, the rapidly deployable structure 1 should be able to support at least its own weight. In the present example, preferably, the structure 1 can support a vehicle weighing around 40 tonnes.
Preferably, in the compressed configuration the structural members are folded, rolled or otherwise arranged to reduce the space occupied thereby. In such a configuration, the structural members 3 may be retained in a casing 2, as shown in Fig. 1. The casing 2 is preferably openable to allow the structural members 3 to inflate, as shown in Figs. 2 to 4. However, the casing 2 may instead be reputable such that it ruptures when the structural members 3 inflate. The casing may be a canister, for example. The casing may be formed form a hard material, such as metal or plastic to protect the structural members 3.
Figs. 2 to 4 shows various stages of inflation of the structural members 3, namely a first intermediate configuration, a second intermediate configuration and an expanded configuration respectively. Between these configurations tension on the structural members 3 increases.
The structure 1 additionally comprises at least one chemical inflator 5. The chemical inflator 5 is configured to rapidly expand structural members 3 by chemical reaction. Preferably, the chemical inflator rapidly expands the one or more structural members by producing large volumes of gas. For example, the chemical inflator 5 may comprise one or more chemical compounds. An azide compound may be used, e.g. sodium azide. An additional accelerant may also be used. Alternative, rapidly reacting chemical compounds are possible including traditional explosives e.g. gunpowder, ANFO etc.
The structural members 3 may comprise one or more pressure release vents configured to vent gas when the pressure reaches a predefined threshold pressure. This may prevent damage to the structural members 3 in the event of overpressure from the chemical inflator 5. The pressure release vents may vent automatically at the threshold pressure, e.g. the vents may be forced open at or above the threshold pressure but remain closed below the threshold pressure.
The chemical inflator 4 is configured to at least partially expand the structural members 3 between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration. The structure 1 may comprise an additional inflator 6 configured to expand the one or more structural members 3. The additional inflator 6 may use non-chemical means, such as an air pump, e.g. an electric pump. Compressed gas is also possible. The additional inflator 6 may expand the structural members 3 relatively slowly compared to the chemical inflator 5.
The additional inflator 6 may be integrated with of the structural members 3, as shown in Fig. 2. However, in alternative examples, the additional inflator may be a separate device that can be connected to (and optionally disconnected from) the structural members 3. In a specific example, the additional inflator 6 may be housed by a remote vehicle.
The additional inflator 6 may partially expand the structural members 3 between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration in conjunction with the chemical inflator 3. For example, the additional inflator 6 may configured to expand the structural members 3 from the compressed configuration to the first intermediate configuration, instead of the chemical inflator 5. Alternatively or additionally, the additional inflator 6 may configured to expand the structural members 3 from the second intermediate configuration to the expanded configuration, instead of the chemical inflator 5.
The chemical inflator 5 may be configured to expand the structural members 3 after reaching the first intermediate configuration and/or before reaching the second intermediate configuration. Not using the chemical inflator 5 at either the start or end of inflation and using a slower additional inflator 6 instead may mitigate damage to the structural members 3 from the rapid expansion by the chemical inflator 5 around the compressed configuration when frictional forces may be high or around the expanded configuration when tensional stress may be high.
The first intermediate configuration may correspond to an inflation of between around 10% and 30%, e.g. around 20%. The second intermediate configuration may correspond to an inflation of between around 70% and 90%, e.g. round 80%. For example, the chemical inflator 5 may operate from around 20% to 80% inflation.
Additionally, the additional inflator 6 may be initiated in the event of a puncture or loss of pressure to the structure, in order to maintain the structural members 3 in the expanded configuration and load-bearing capability if required.
Preferably, both the chemical inflator 5 and the additional inflator 6 can be operated, e.g. initiated remotely.
Fig. 5 shows a cross section through an example structure 1. As shown in Fig. 5, the structural members 3 may comprise an exterior wall 3 A. Preferably, the wall 3 A is airtight. As shown in Fig. 5, the structural members 3 may comprise internal walls 3B. This internal walls 3B may define an internal cellular structure comprising cells 4.
The cellular structure may improve the strength of the structure, e.g. to enable it to be more heavily loaded. The cellular structure may increase the protection against damage, such as puncture. The cellular structure may enable control of the expansion of the structure. For example, cells may control gas flow from one cell to another. Alternatively, each cell may be individually inflatable, e.g. each cell comprised a respective chemical inflator 5.
The structural members 3 will preferably be formed from a material resistant to puncture, abrasion, and/or tearing, for example by projectiles such as incoming small arms rounds, or by contact with sharp or rough objects during or after expansion. The material may be an aramid fibre material, for example, such as Kevlar™ or Twaron™. Optionally the materials may be partially made from a carbon derived fibre such as carbon fibre. The external wall 3A may be formed from a different material to the internal walls 3B for example. Preferably, at least the external wall 3A is formed from a material resistant to puncture, abrasion and/or tearing. Preferably, at least the internals wall 3B closest to the external walls 3A, i.e. forming a first layer of cells 4, are formed from a material resistant to puncture, abrasion and/or tearing. This may provide additional protection to the structure 1. In an example, the structure 1 may comprise a self-destruction mechanism, configured to cause irreparable damaged to the structure 1 so as to render the structure unusable. The self-destruction mechanism may comprise an explosive charge. The self-destruction mechanism comprises a mechanism for rupturing one or more of the structural members 3.
After deployment, the expanded structural members 3 may be configured to be filled with a liquid or foam material which cures to provide structural stability without the need to maintain air pressure. For example, structure stabilising material may comprise a rapidly expanding and setting foam. This foam may be made from polyurethane. Alternatively, the structure stabilising material comprises a hard setting material such as concrete or epoxy. Accordingly, the structure 1 may be strengthened further.
Figs. 6 and 7 show a second example rapidly deployable structure 10 according to the disclosure. The structure 10 in this example is a shield or barrier. The shield is configured to protect an asset as described further below. However, the features described below are applicable to other structures, such as those described above or below.
The structure 10 may comprise a reflective or retroreflective member 7. The reflective or retroreflective member 7 may comprise a reflective or retroreflective material on the external surface of the structure 10 (e.g. external wall 3 A). Alternatively or additionally, a reflective or retroreflective material may be provided on one or more internal surfaces of the structure 10 (e.g. internal walls 3B). A plurality of layers of reflective or retroreflective material may be provided, e.g. incrementally deeper within the structure 10. The reflective or retroreflective material may comprise Mylar, for example. The reflective or retroreflective material may comprise a reflective metallic film, for example. The reflective or retroreflective may comprise retroreflective glass micro beads, for example.
Depending on the intended use of the reflective or retroreflective member, the reflective or retroreflective member may be reflective to visible, IR, microwave radiation, and/or radio wave radiation or a combination thereof. The reflective or retroreflective member may be configured to prevent the passage of electromagnetic data, as shown in Fig. 6.
In other examples, the structure 10 may comprise a radiation-absorbing member (which may be arranged in a similar fashion to the reflective or retroreflective member 7). The radiation absorbing member may comprise a radiation-absorbing material on the external surface of the structure 10 (e.g. external wall 3 A). Alternatively or additionally, a radiation-absorbing material may be provided on one or more internal surfaces of the structure 10 (e.g. internal walls 3B). A plurality of layers of radiation-absorbing material may be provided, e.g. incrementally deeper within the structure 10. The radiationabsorbing material may be, for example, a Salisbury Screen type of structure or a frequency-selective surface.
Depending on the intended use of the radiation-absorbing member, the radiation-absorbing member may absorb visible, IR, microwave radiation, and/or radio wave radiation or a combination thereof.
The use of a radiation-absorbing member may reduce or remove the likelihood of the structure 10 being visible, either to visual or electromagnetic detection (e.g. radar).
The radiation-absorbing member may be configured to prevent the passage of electromagnetic data.
The radiation-absorbing member may be configured to permit a selected frequency or range of frequencies to pass through the member. For example, if the structure is deployed around a radiation transmitter, receiver or transceiver (e.g. a radio antenna or radar system).
The reflective or retroreflective member 7 and the radiation-absorbing member described above may both be used in a single structure.
Reflective and retroreflective properties may be used to locate a structure, e.g. by illuminating with a laser, or using a radar.
Fig. 9 shows a variation of the second example structure 10. In this example, the structure 10 is not a standalone structure, as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, but may be attached to, or integrated with, another structure 30 or device. As shown in Fig. 9, the other structure 30 may be a vehicle. In another example, a device may be an item of apparel or pack worn by a person. Fig. 8 shows a third example structure 20. The thirds example structure 20 is a vehicle, namely a boat. Although not shown, the structure may comprise means for propelling the vehicle such as a motor.
It should be understood that variations of the above described examples are possible in light of the above teachings, without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A rapidly deployable structure comprising: one or more structural members configurable between a compressed configuration and an expanded configuration; at least one chemical inflator configured to rapidly expand the one or more structural members at least partially between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration by chemical reaction; wherein when the one or more structural members are in the expanded configuration, the rapidly deployable structure is able to support at least its own weight.
2. The structure of claim 1, wherein the chemical inflator rapidly expands the one or more structural members by producing large volumes of gas.
3. The structure of any preceding claim, wherein the chemical inflator comprises one or more explosive compounds.
4. The structure of claim 3, wherein the chemical inflator comprises an azide compound.
5. The structure of any preceding claim, comprising an additional inflator configured to expand the one or more structural members, relatively slowly compared to the chemical inflator, at least partially between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration by chemical reaction.
6. The structure of claim 5, wherein the rate of expansion by the additional inflator is controllable.
7. The structure of claim 5 or 6 wherein the additional inflator is configured to expand the one or more structural members from the compressed configuration to a first intermediate configuration between the compressed configuration and the expanded configuration and/or from a second intermediate configuration to the expanded configuration.
8. The structure of claim 7, wherein the chemical inflator is configured to expand the one or more structural members from the first intermediate configuration and/or up to the second intermediate configuration.
9. The structure of claim 5, wherein the additional inflator is configured to be initiated in the event of a puncture or loss of pressure to maintain the one or more structures in the expanded configuration.
10. The structure of claim 9 wherein the one or more structural members comprises one or more interior walls.
11. The structure of claim 10, wherein the one or more interior walls define an internal cellular structure comprising at least two cells.
12. The structure of claim 11 , wherein each cell comprises a respective chemical inflator.
13. The structure of any preceding claim, wherein at least a subset of the one or more structural members is formed from a material resistant to puncture, abrasion and/or tearing.
14. The structure of any preceding claim, comprising a reflective or retroreflective member.
15. The structure of any preceding claim, comprising a radiation-absorbing member.
16. The structure of any preceding claim wherein the expanded one or more structural members are configured to be filled with a structure stabilising material.
17. The structure of claim 16, wherein the structure stabilising material comprises a rapidly expanding and setting foam.
18. The structure of claim 16, wherein the structure stabilising material comprises a hard setting material.
19. The structure of any preceding claim, wherein the structure in the compressed configuration is contained, such that it can be airdropped or canister launched.
20. The structure of any preceding claim, comprising a self-destruction mechanism, configured to cause irreparable damage so as to render the structure unusable.
21. The structure of claim 20, wherein the self-destruction mechanism comprises an explosive charge.
22. The structure of claim 20 or 21, wherein the self-destruction mechanism comprises a mechanism for rupturing the one or more structural members.
23. The structure of any preceding claim, wherein the structure is a civil engineering structure.
24. The structure of any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the structure is a vehicle.
25. The structure of any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the structure is a barrier or a shield.
PCT/GB2022/053356 2021-12-23 2022-12-22 Rapidly deployable structure WO2023118876A1 (en)

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Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0715145A1 (en) * 1994-11-30 1996-06-05 Giat Industries Protective device for a vehicle or a structure
US20060191465A1 (en) * 2005-02-27 2006-08-31 Saint-Ange Marcellus Boat safety float
US20190383054A1 (en) * 2017-01-25 2019-12-19 Hutchinson Emergency shelter for at least one person, method for converting this from a folded position to a deployed position, and module of such shelters
EP3650614A1 (en) * 2018-11-07 2020-05-13 Lucie Weber Building structure
US20200340268A1 (en) * 2018-01-05 2020-10-29 Rowan University Inflatable impact shield system

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0715145A1 (en) * 1994-11-30 1996-06-05 Giat Industries Protective device for a vehicle or a structure
US20060191465A1 (en) * 2005-02-27 2006-08-31 Saint-Ange Marcellus Boat safety float
US20190383054A1 (en) * 2017-01-25 2019-12-19 Hutchinson Emergency shelter for at least one person, method for converting this from a folded position to a deployed position, and module of such shelters
US20200340268A1 (en) * 2018-01-05 2020-10-29 Rowan University Inflatable impact shield system
EP3650614A1 (en) * 2018-11-07 2020-05-13 Lucie Weber Building structure

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GB202118893D0 (en) 2022-02-09

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