Inflatable building
Inflatable buildings are constructed using two layers of membrane connected together to form inflatable 'cushions'. Membranes are usually less than 1 mm thick, and air is used to pressurise the cavity between them to form a 'rigid', structurally stable element, capable of spanning large distances.
Inflatable buildings differ from air-supported buildings, which are formed by a single-layer membrane that is supported by pressurisation of the whole interior of the building. An air-supported building prevents air from being lost when access points are opened by using airlocks, which maintain the level of air pressure inside the occupied space. Inflatable buildings have a lower power requirement than inflatable buildings as they require a lower volume of pressurised air.
Inflatable buildings are typically used for warehouses and other storage facilities, sports facilities, stadia, shopping centres and so on. Since the amount of material used for inflatable buildings is relatively low, they can be portable, with the air allowed to escape before the membrane is packed down to a small volume.
Inflatable structures (or inflatables) can also be used to create specific components such as; escape slides, mattresses, swimming and paddling pools, play slides, bouncy castles, and so on.
Legal requirements apply to the supply, hire and use of inflatable play equipment for commercial purposes, but not to private, domestic buyers and users. Inflatables can be dangerous in terms of user injuries as well as being unsuitable in high winds if inadequately secured.
Inflatables should be checked before buying or hiring for an event to ensure they comply with BS EN 14960. A label should provide information about when the inflatable was made, how many people can use it and their maximum heights. Once the inflatable is fully inflated, it should be inspected prior to use to check that the site is suitable, that the anchorages are secure, and the internal air pressure provides a firm footing.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.
The story of this knowledge quarter building.
In ecology, in hydrology, in biology and in architecture.
Creating environments that promote physical, mental, and social well-being.
UK cases of neutral current diversion
Research project looks for example contributions.
Overstocking and macro-economics cause a decline.
The 2024 update of the Common Assessment Standard
Demonstrating organisational capability’ to fulfil roles under the Building Safety Act.
56 recommendations for a better built environment
Published by the CIC ahead of the King’s Speech.
SkillELECTRIC Top 8 Competitors Named
in annual search for the UK’s best student electrician.
CIOB Diversity and Inclusion technical information sheet
Step-by-step guide on implementing D and I practices.
Conservation and the Indian City. Book review.
Reversibility in conservation ethics
Learning from painting conservation.
Where It's AT Podcast launched!
New CIAT Architectural Technology Podcast goes live.