Rapid Inflation System Utilizing HMMWV Exhaust

The objectives of this study are to evaluate the potential use of the Hummer for structural support inflation and to design and build a prototype booster compatible with the Hummer and capable of delivering 65 psig at the highest possible flow rate. Determination of the time required to fill 10 arched shaped air beams 13" in diameter and 60' long will be made. Two cases will be evaluated: (1) filling the beams directly with exhaust gases to 15 psig, then increasing the pressure with exhaust gas using a booster powered with exhaust gas, and (2) filling the beams entirely with air using a booster run with exhaust gas. The Hummer's output capabilities will be evaluated. The flow rate versus engine rpms, and back pressure will be accurately determined. The exhaust temperature will also be correlated to engine speed, back pressure and exhaust flow rate. If necessary analysis of various methods of cooling the exhaust stream to a tolerable temperature will be performed. A prototype booster suitable to the task of interfacing directly with the Hummer or with the heat exchanger hose and capable of delivering 65 psig will be designed. The performance of this booster will be evaluated/predicted. These boosters may be used where ever a relatively low pressure (65 psig) high volume air supply is needed. The entire structure and inflation apparatus may be used for disaster relief operations where large structures need to be erected quickly.