Strip type coupling member

Abstract

A coupling device particularly advantageous for use in connecting parts of unlike material comprising a flexible strip formed element having a resilient core. In preferred embodiment this core is covered or substantially sheathed in an envelope which is preferably of non-porous flexible material capable of heat transfer, the outer surface of which mounts a pressure or heat sensitive adhesive. The strip body is characterized in one form by the feature that on application of a predetermined range of heat it will self adapt in form and/or contained volume to the load of contacting parts, in the process of which the adhesive will bond to such parts and the body of the strip will form a seal between the parts in contact, irrespective of irregularities in the contacted surfaces. An aspect of the invention of considerable importance is the concept of controlled flow so that coupling devices, on deformation thereof under load, will inherently seek the proper direction of flow, self-dispersing in a manner to minimize and avoid surface contamination and effect optimal positioning of adhesive parts.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.