Patent ID: 6192633
Filing Date: 2001-02-27
Classification: E04H

Abstract:
A rapidly deployable structure for use in adverse or hostile conditions comprising:a. a plurality of inflatable support members dimensioned to receive an inflating fluid and disposed in a spaced apart relationship within a protective covering, such inflatable support members defining a frame for support of the protective covering upon introduction and retention of a fluid therein,b. a fluid distribution member mounted in conjunction with the protective covering and adapted for fluid communication between the plurality of inflatable support members and an inflating fluid source, such that fluid communication may occur individually or collectively between the fluid source and each inflatable support member,c. the protective covering having an inside surface adjacent which the plurality of inflatable support members are disposed, and an outside surface subject to external environmental conditions,d. each inflatable support member having a first end coupleable to the fluid distribution member and a second end opposite the first end and adapted to maintain a fluid within such support member,e. each inflatable support member being separately coupleable and decoupleable with respect to the fluid distribution member and removable from within the structure, such that the removal and replacement of an inflatable support member with respect to the fluid distribution member does not change the amount of fluid present in any inflatable support member that remains coupled to the fluid distribution member.