Welded Gusset Reinforcement for Inflatable Device Crotch Areas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inflatable device assemblies, such as evacuation slides and rafts, face challenges in securing non-linear components due to the time-consuming nature of adhesive-based reinforcement methods and the weakness of fin or prayer seams under dynamic loads, which can lead to failure.
Innovation Solution
A gusseted reinforcement system using pre-cut gusset elements that are welded in place without adhesives, employing methods like thermal welding to create a shear failure mode and enhance strength against peeling and shear forces in non-linear geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If adhesive-based reinforcement methods are used to secure non-linear components, then the components can be secured to one another, but the manufacturing time is extended significantly (up to a few days or longer)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the chemical bonding mechanism (adhesives) with a mechanical bonding mechanism (welding). The welding process uses heat and pressure to fuse the reinforcement element directly to the inflatable device components, eliminating the need for adhesive drying time while maintaining or improving bond strength. This substitution of bonding mechanisms directly resolves the contradiction between securing reliability and manufacturing time.
2Ease of manufacture
If fin or prayer seams are used for reinforcement, then the components can be joined, but the seams are weak under dynamic loads and exposed to peel forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a continuous reinforcement element that spans across the seam area rather than relying on discrete fin or prayer seams. This continuous element distributes loads across a larger area and prevents the concentration of stresses at specific seam points. The reinforcement element is positioned to bridge the joint between components, creating a more robust connection that resists both peel and shear forces generated by dynamic loads.
3Ease of manufacture
If straight tapes are used for reinforcement, then the reinforcement can be applied, but they are not effective in non-linear geometries with curves or angles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible reinforcement element that can conform to non-linear geometries. The element is designed with the ability to bend and follow curved paths, allowing it to adapt to the specific geometry of the inflatable device components. This dynamic flexibility enables the reinforcement to maintain its structural integrity and load-bearing capacity whether the underlying surface is straight, curved, or angular, directly addressing the adaptability issue.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The gusseted reinforcement system provides a rapid, adhesive-free method to strengthen crotch areas of inflatable devices, resisting dynamic loads and preventing seam failure, as demonstrated by successful load testing on rectangular and circular geometries.
Implementation Method 1
Welding methods include, but are not limited to: thermal welding, hot air welding, heated wedge welding, heated rotary wheel welding, hot stamp welding, ultrasonic welding, and radio frequency (RF) welding.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide reinforcements for inflatable device assemblies. Specific embodiments provide a welded reinforcement for crotch areas of inflatable devices. Particular benefits may be achieved when the areas to be reinforced with the reinforcement system described are non-linear, defining a geometry with at least one curve or angle. Specific aspects of the reinforcement system provide one or more precut gusset elements that are configured to be secured with respect to a crotch area of a base substrate and welded.