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US 6,148,713 AGranted
Elastomeric surface actuation system
AssigneeThe United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
InventorThomas J. Gieseke
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A system for deforming or actuating an elastomeric structure is described. he system includes a plurality of tubes joined to the elastomeric structure. The tubes extend in the direction of a desired strain to be applied to the elastomeric structure and are constrained from circumferential expansion. When a pressurized fluid is applied to the tubes, the tubes deform causing a like deformation of the elastomeric structure.
Claims13
A system for deforming an elastomeric structure, said system comprising:
- a plurality of tubes extending in the direction of a strain to be applied to the elastomeric structure and attached to said elastomeric structure;
- means for constraining said elastomeric structure so that resistance to said applied strain causes said elastomeric structure to buckle and deform;
- and
- a membrane connecting each said tube to said elastomeric structure, said membrane having means for resisting expansion between said elastomeric structure and said tube incorporated therein.
1 more element
A system for deforming an elastomeric structure, said system comprising:
- a plurality of tubes extending in the direction of a strain to be applied to the elastomeric structure and attached to said elastomeric structure;
- means for constraining said elastomeric structure so that resistance to said applied strain causes said elastomeric structure to buckle and deform;
- a plurality of membranes extending in said direction of said desired strain;
- at least one attachment collar having an aperture, said attachment collar connecting each said membrane to one of said tubes;
- pressurizing means joined to said tubes;
- and
- a reinforcing cable passing through said aperture in adjacent ones of said collars and thereby connecting adjacent ones of said membranes so as to prevent said tubes from buckling in an undesirable fashion when pressurized by said pressurizing means.
4 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.