| 摘要 |
<p>A large structure can be created form a plurality of interconnected modular inflatable balloons 3. The structure can comprise a vertically or horizontally extending canopy that can be erected over or adjacent an area requiring protection or shielding from weather or other local conditions. The balloons 3 are connected together by rings 6 and tethered to a transporting vehicle 1 by means of cords 7 connected to winding spools 12. The balloons are constructed with inner skins made of rubber and outer skins made of nylon fabric. A first balloon is inflated by connecting one end of a hose 16 to a valve in the balloon and the other end to a valve 24 coupled to an inflation system 5 that is controlled by actuator means 11. Once the first balloon is inflated and lifting upwards the next balloon is attached by means of rings 6 and a small tube 10 is connected between valves 19 and 14 in the two balloons. A power connection 17 is made between the balloons. Hose 16 is then connected to the inflation valve 4 of the second balloon. This process is repeated with more balloons until an inflated structure is created of the desired size. A release valve is incorporated into each balloon but once the structure is inflated to the desired size only the inflation valve and release valve on the last balloon will be required to inflate /deflate the whole structure. The structure may be strengthened by embedded members 15. The structure may support other equipment such as wind power fans 9, T.V. cameras, advertising slogans, solar panels and solar strips 13, T.V. screens and any similar devices.</p> |
