Patent ID: 8161687

Claim:
A pneumatic support comprising: a framework comprising: an upper chord and a lower chord, the upper chord operatively coupled to the lower chord by at least one knot disposed at an end of the framework, the upper chord and the lower chord each comprising a plurality of tension-compression bar segments, each tension- compression bar segment of the plurality of tension-compression bar segments coupled to a successive tension-compression bar segment in a plurality of articulated joints; a plurality of tension straps connecting the upper chord and the lower chord, each tension strap of the plurality of tension straps connected to the upper chord and the lower chord in a region of each articulated joint of the plurality of articulated joints; at least one pneumatic element for containing a compressed gas the at least one pneumatic element arranged on a side of the framework; wherein, upon filling the at least one pneumatic element with the compressed gas, forces are generated in the framework that preload the plurality of tension straps, stabilize the plurality of articulated joints, and secure the plurality of tension-compression bar segments against bending; wherein the framework and the at least one pneumatic element are foldable when the at least one pneumatic element is not filled with the compressed gas; and wherein the framework and the at least one pneumatic element can be erected from an empty state into a state ready for operation by filling the at least one pneumatic element with the compressed gas.