Cryogenic composite tank seals
AssigneeNorthrop Grumman Corporation
InventorRichard Lloyd Grover
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Sealed structural joints for use in manufacturing pressurized tank structures, and particularly cryogenic fuel tanks. In a preferred embodiment, the structural joints and seals comprise a strain-compliant material as applied to a joint or seam to provide a surface to bridge the joint with a continuous skin so as to provide a completed bonded inner surface. In the preferred embodiment, the strain-compliant material comprises honeycomb, although foam cores and homogenous elastomeric materials may also be utilized. Among the specific applications by which the joint seals of the present invention may be employed include splice joint seals, frame seals, and access cover openings.
Claims7
A pressure-container vessel, comprising:
- a) at least one first skin component;
- b) at least one second skin component;
- c) at least one fastener member for securing said at least one first skin component to said at least one second skin component such that said components are rigidly held in adjacency to define a vessel having an internal surface, said internal surface having a joint formed by said adjacent skin components;
- and
- d) a strain-compliant material bonded to said joint and the interior surface of said vessel.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.