Bellows

About: Bellows is a research topic. Over the lifetime, 15312 publications have been published within this topic receiving 73914 citations.

Air-elevated dumping vehicle

Abstract: A dumping vehicle comprising a dump body pivotally mounted on the vehicle chassis frame for movement between a horizontal normal position and an inclined dumping position using an air bag or air bellows as a means of power to raise and lower the dump body. The dump body is so pivoted and the air bellows is so disposed between the body and the chassis frame that maximum lift is obtained with a minimum stroke of the air bellows.

Shape memory alloys for use in thermally activated clothing, protection against flame and heat

Abstract: Shape memory alloys (SMA) have been in use as actuators in many mechanical processes for some time. The alloys are trained to return to a given shape when an actuation temperature is reached. These alloys can be incorporated into clothing systems. Once actuated the clothing layers will separate resulting in an increased air gap. The air gap is one of the major determining factors for insulation. To have this increase prior to exposure to intense heat, i.e. a bulky garment, would subject the wearer to heat stress, Presently nickel titanium alloy has been investigated. A flat spring shape with a transition temperature of similar to 45 degrees C has shown good potential, Initial testing on the cone calorimeter has demonstrated a significant increase of protection at heat Bur of 15 kW/m(2), giving an extra 40 s before the onset of second degree skin burn. The springs can be incorporated in bellows pocket panels. The pleats allow for the expansion of the air gap while the attachment of the spring holds the fabric layers together prior to actuation. Potential applications are for the fire service, drivers in enclosed vehicles, e.g. tank crew, racing drivers and any other personnel who may be accidentally exposed to intense heat.

Quick inflatable air mattress

Abstract: A self-inflatable air mattress (10) having a built-in bellows (44). A portion of the air mattress support (18) is manually moved up and down actuating the bellows (44) to introduce air into the mattress (10). The air inlet (30) is of large area and a substantial amount of air is introduced upon each manual actuation of the support (18). A valve (86) may be associated with the bellows (44) and air inlet (30) to selectively reverse the air flow so that the air mattress (44) can be quickly deflated, if desired.

Expansion joint cover

Abstract: An expansion joint cover having a vapor barrier channel depending from the bellows membrane Resilient insulation substantially fills the channel, making it possible to attach an insulated vapor-impermeable bellows cover to the expansion joint members in a single operation A separate layer of foam insulation may be bonded to the underside of the bellows independent of the insulation filling the channel