초록 ▼

A lightweight hose (80) is disclosed which is formed from a heat seamable material and includes a helically-wound reinforcing member (88). The hose (80) can be formed in a short, definite length and a relatively long, indefinite length by a mandrel and a continuous process, respectively. In one aspe

A lightweight hose (80) is disclosed which is formed from a heat seamable material and includes a helically-wound reinforcing member (88). The hose (80) can be formed in a short, definite length and a relatively long, indefinite length by a mandrel and a continuous process, respectively. In one aspect of the invention, a lightweight conduit (80) comprises a tubular wall (82) formed of at least one ply of heat seamable material and at least one helical member (88) whereby the at least one ply is bonded to itself and to the at least one reinforcing member (88) without additional adhesive. The invention also relates to lightweight conduits in the form of connectors such as cuffs (140) and T- and Y-connectors (170) and (180), respectively. The invention further relates to a method for forming a lightweight conduit, including but not limited to, the embodiments of a hose described herein. The method can be characterized by the steps of wrapping at least one ply of heat seamable material (134) around a mandrel (120) so that at least one portion thereof overlaps another portion, wrapping an elongated member (132) helically around the mandrel (120), heating the material (134) and the member (132) to a predetermined temperature and time wherein the at least one portion will adhere to the other portion and form a conduit (80). Thereafter, the conduit (80) can be removed from the mandrel (120).

대표청구항 ▼

[ The embodiments for which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:] [1.] A lightweight conduit characterized by:(a) a tubular wall formed of at least one wrapping of heat seamable material wherein the heat seamable material is reinforced in the warp and fill directions

[ The embodiments for which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:] [1.] A lightweight conduit characterized by:(a) a tubular wall formed of at least one wrapping of heat seamable material wherein the heat seamable material is reinforced in the warp and fill directions; and(b) at least one helical member;wherein the at least one wrapping is bonded to itself and mounts the at least one helical member without additional adhesive.