| abstract |
A pneumatically supported structure is constructed by securing a flat sheet of elastic membrane to a foundation, and then stretching the membrane to form the structure by inflating the membrane with air under pressure. During the stretching by inflation, the membrane may be partially constrained by rigid or flexible members. Plastic foam material may be applied to the inner or outer surface of the membrane once the membrane has been stretched, the plastic material being preferably polyurethane. After inflation, the membrane can be further stretched by forcing members within the confines of the membrane, against sections of the stretched membrane. Preferably, the plastic membrane is a sheet of butyl rubber. |