Importance

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Abstract

Provided is a method and apparatus for deploying an inflatable antenna from a compressed storage position on the trailer bed of a transport vehicle. A support structure is provided having a pair of spaced apart actuating rails for engagement with the antenna during deployment and a storage compartment stored on the trailer bed of the transport vehicle. The storage compartment is formed of a base wall which is pivotally affixed to both the trailer bed and one end of the compressed antenna, and a deployment structure affixed to the opposing end of the compressed antenna. The deployment structure is partitioned lengthwise to form first and second shelter compartments which are hinged together at one end and pivotable with respect to one another between a closed storage position and an open A-frame position. The shelter compartments further have engaging means for engagement with the support structure actuating rails when opened to the A-frame position to pull the deployment structure and the compressed antenna away from the base wall while inflating the compressed antenna. In operation, the base wall and the deployment structure are elevated from the trailer bed and the deployment structure is disengaged from the base wall. Thereafter, the deployment structure is positioned on the support structure and the shelter compartments are pivoted about their hinged axis and secured in an open cantilevered position. The shelter compartments are thereafter engaged with the support structure and pulled away from the base wall while the antenna is inflated.

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First Claim