System and method for seaming high-modulus, high-tenacity, low-elongation fabrics
AssigneeLockheed Martin Corporation
InventorsJohn F. BREWER, Dhiraj H. Darjee, David R. Dingler
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Abstract
A seaming system for forming a seam is disclosed, wherein the seam consists of at least two opposed sections of high-modulus, high-tenacity, low-elongation fabric sections joined by a tape. The system comprises a seamer head, and a seamer base that includes a topography configured to impart a predetermined pressure gradient to the adhesive layer, tape, and fabric sections of the seam. The resultant seam has a cross-section or thickness profile that generally corresponds to that of the applied pressure gradient. As such, the constructed seam more efficiently distributes stress imparted from any applied load.
Claims8
A method of forming a seam comprising:
- providing an opposed seamer head and seamer base with an opening therebetween, said seamer base having a topography;
- disposing a programmer upon one of said seamer base and said seamer head;
- interposing a tape and an adhesive that faces fabric sections to be joined between said seamer head and said seamer base;
- and
- generating pressure between said seamer head and said seamer base, wherein said topography forms a pressure gradient upon said tape, said pressure gradient having a higher pressure about a central region of said tape, and a lower pressure toward edges of said tape.
A method of forming a seam comprising:
- providing a strap joint comprising:
- at least two opposed fabric sections each having a facing surface;
- a layer of adhesive disposed on said facing surfaces;
- and
- a tape disposed upon said adhesive layer to join said fabric sections;
- and
- applying a pressure gradient to said tape, wherein said pressure gradient is higher in a region about a center of said tape, and lower in regions extending away from said region about the center of said tape.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.