DE2949173A1 - HEAT RECOVERABLE ENVIRONMENT - Google Patents

Description

DR.-ING. WALTER ABITZ DR. DIETER F. MORF DIPL.-PHYS. M. GRITSCHNEDER

Patcnlnnnwältc

S. December 19

Poalannchrlft / ΓοαΙβ.1 Addreaa Poatfach 86Ο1ΟΘ, BOOO Munich

Plenzene unratritGe 38

Telephone 08 32 93

Telegrams: Chsmlndua Munich

Telex: (O) 6 23998

MP 0283 / MP 0285

Raychem Corporation

300 Constitution Drive

Menlo Park, California 94025 USA

Heat-recoverable enveloping device

030026/0687

MP 0283 X

The present invention relates to wrapping devices that can be wrapped around elongate articles. She concerns in particular a wrapping device made of a heat-recoverable wrapping element and a fastening device, and it further relates to a fastening device which can be used for the wrapping device and to a method for Wrapping of elongate objects using such a wrapping device.

It is often advantageous to have insulation that can be wrapped around, protective covers, collars, devices or sealing pins available for connection points for elongated lines, pipes, cables and the like, which are not have an easily accessible end over which a conventional tubular sheath could be pulled. In such cases a slotted wrap member was often used. The slotted envelope is wrapped around the substrate, and the two edges are then held against each other. In order to prevent the penetration of harmful substances, was preferably a sealing device used on the edges. Often the cladding element consists of a heat recoverable one Material, and once the edges have been fixed together, the heat recoverable material is applied to the for heat recovery necessary temperature heated. The enveloping element shrinks firmly onto the substrate and envelops it in a tense state.

There are a variety of such wrappers around substrates Casings have been developed to meet the requirements for special uses and around the same time To provide cheap and easy-to-assemble enclosures which in practice have a high degree of reliability Offer. Examples of such wrappings made of heat-recoverable material that can be wrapped around substrates are disclosed in US Pat ÜS-PS'en 3 379 318, 3 455 336, 3 530 898, 3 542 077,

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ORIGINAL INSPECTED

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3,770,556, 3,927,233 and 3,991,243 described.

In spite of the successful use of the wrappings described above which can be wrapped around substrates, they have certain disadvantages. In some of the known devices, the edges of the film-like covering elements had to be subjected to a special manufacturing process in order to adapt them to the specific fastening means used. Such special manufacturing processes are, for example, the formation of ridges on each edge, buttons and buttonholes, fastening elements and the like. In most cases, these specially manufactured edges require that the width of the enveloping element is predetermined for a particular size of the substrate. The wrapping elements cannot be cut in place if a specially processed edge is used. In the production of covering elements with special edge requirements, additional production steps, complex casting molds and the like are necessary. Of course, the production of a simple film as a cladding element is more advantageous and cheaper.

The known wrapping devices often require special assembly techniques, with particular detailed work being necessary in order to ensure a satisfactory wrapping. On-site modifications must be made to some of the wrapping elements. However, such modifications are time consuming and can lead to inadequate assembly. Other wrapping devices require a tight fit on the wrapping element. Such a tight fit, however, leads to assembly difficulties and increases the risk of errors either in manufacture or in assembly, which ultimately leads to an incomplete enclosure.

If heat-recoverable covering elements are used, arise other difficulties in completing the

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Wrapping. Once the covering element with the fastening device has been added, it is necessary that this To subject the cladding element to the heat recovery process, so that it encloses the substrate tightly. This creates tensile forces in the enveloping element, which the fastening device counteracts by holding or pinching the edges of the enveloping element, which are fixed to one another. With certain Wrapping devices that can be wrapped around a substrate develop the fastening devices by using the Withstand tensile loads of the encasing element recovering in the heat, torques that arise because ' the tensile forces generated in the enveloping element do not match the resistance forces caused by the fastening device are aligned. In some cases, especially when the material from which the cladding element is made, in the case of the Heat recovery required higher temperatures becomes slippery, leads to the resulting twisting of the edge of the cladding element to the fact that this slips out of the fastening device. Around this problem with wrap around substrates Solving fixtures must be careful of the assembly details Attention should be paid and there should only be a small amount of clearance between the wrapping element and the fastening device to be available. All of these difficulties, of course, add to the cost of both manufacture and manufacture Assembly, and they further increase the risk of only incomplete encasing.

The present invention provides one wrappable around a substrate Wrapping device available, comprising a heat recoverable wrapping element which is around an elongated Body can be wrapped around so that the opposite edges of the wrapping element in one substantially abutting position can be brought, and a fastening device with at least first and second Legs which are arranged so that they form a first gripping channel for gripping or clamping one of the two

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Edges of the UmhUllungselements serves, one of the two Legs between the elongate body and the edge of the wrapping element substantially along the perimeter of the Body arranged ii5t, and wherein the first and second legs relative to each other from a first position in the the gripping channel is sufficiently open to receive the one edge of the wrapping element, brought into a second position can be, in which the gripping channel is sufficiently closed, and thus the edges of the enveloping element in the abutting one Holds position.

The present invention thus relates to a heat retrievable wrapping device of the type which can be wrapped around a substrate, the wrapping element used does not have any special edge shapes nor any modification in assembly in place. The wrapping element consists made of simple film material, which has the property of being heat recoverable. The simple wrapping element becomes combined with a fastening device according to the invention, which preferably has two channels arranged in substantially opposite directions, which are intended to receive the respective Single edges of the wrapping element are used. The channels are constructed and arranged in such a way that they enclose the cladding element clamp tightly so that bending moments are unlikely during the heat recovery of the cladding element. That Sheet material can easily be cut in place if it is for a given substrate or set of Substrates must fit, regardless of whether the size of the substrate changes or fluctuations in the size of occur in some substrates. The edges of the sheet material can then be easily inserted into the fastener, and then heat recovery is carried out. The fastening device can be designed so that it is essentially flush or in alignment with the casing element is arranged. Thus, the present invention is a versatile, easy to manufacture and also easy to assemble.

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COPY

MP 0283 4i

Attachable wrapping system provided with the the disadvantages of the known wrapping devices or systems that can be wrapped around substrates can be overcome.

The fastening element is preferably made of a material which is dimensionally stable at the temperatures occurring during use; however, a heat-recoverable material can also be used for the fastening device, as will be described, for example, below. In one embodiment of the device according to the invention, at least one of the legs is provided with holding devices which support the clamping or gripping of the enveloping element through the channel. With reference to Figures 1 to 14 of the accompanying drawings, specific embodiments of this type of device are described below.

In the drawings shows:

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an inventive heat retrievable wrapping device as placed around a substrate prior to heat recovery;

Figure 2 is a side view of the wrapping device of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a detailed perspective view of a particular embodiment of the restraint means;

Fig. 4 is a plan view of a second embodiment of restraint means;

Figure 5 is a side view of the particular embodiment of Figure 4;

Fig. 6 is a detailed perspective view of the retaining means of the embodiment of Fig. 4;

7 is a side view of a wrapping device using a sealing element;

8 shows a side view of another embodiment of the wrapping device according to the invention;

FIG. 9 is a side view of a modified embodiment of FIG. 8;

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10 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of a fastening device according to the invention;
FIG. 11 is a plan view of the fastening device of FIG

Fig. 10;
Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a further invention

according to fastening device; and FIG. 13 is a plan view of the fastening device of FIG Fig. 12; and '

14 shows a side view of the fastening device from FIG. 12, Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of an inventive, heat retrievable wrapping device as disposed around a substrate. The wrapping device 10 is in its non-heat-recovered state and is therefore loosely arranged around the substrate 12. Of clarity Because of this, the wrapping device 10 is shown in the drawings as having a relatively short length. It is obvious, that the wrapping devices can be much longer. Furthermore, the diameter of the wrapping device can be each have the required size to a given substrate 12 to be customized. Of course, the proportional size of the fastening device with respect to the covering element will depend to a large extent on the diameter of the covering device and the tensile loads exerted on the covering device during heat recovery.

The wrapping device 10 comprises a wrapping element 14, which is a simple film made of a heat-recoverable material is. In the context of the present invention, as heat recoverable Material is considered to be such a material, which from an originally dimensionally stable state in the heat has been transformed into a dimensionally unstable state in terms of heat, and when heat is applied to its original state Form can return. The ability to return to its original shape can be referred to as an "elastic memory" will. In the context of the present invention

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such heat-recoverable films are preferred that lead to smaller dimensions shrinkage, measured between the edges, which are brought into a substantially abutting position have to. The longitudinal expansion of the film should remain essentially constant during heat recovery, while the thickness of the film increases with shrinkage. Examples of such heat recoverable materials are described in US Pat. No. 3,086,242, whose entire disclosure is intended to be included here.

In general, it can be a material that has the property of heat recoverability having, can be obtained by bringing a suitable polymeric material to a temperature above its crystalline melting point or range. At this temperature it is stretched and then in the stretched state cooled down. Above its crystalline melting temperature, i.e. when it is not stressed, the material shows an "elastic" Memory ", that is, it essentially becomes the dimensions shrink that it had before stretching. Polymeric materials that are chemically or by irradiation, for example with high-energy electrons or nuclear Irradiation, which have been crosslinked, are preferred in the context of the present invention, but other polymers can also be used Materials that have been given the property of heat recovery can be used.

Such heat-recoverable materials described above can easily be obtained in the form of endless webs and in the form of rolls be kept. The wrapping element 14 can be made of such a roll or another long film in the desired Length and width are cut out. The dimensions usually depend on the elongate object to around which the casing is to be shrunk, these dimensions being easy to determine by the person skilled in the art. The properly dimensioned wrapping element can be used immediately without further modification or treatment as it is in the known devices is necessary to be used.

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The enveloping device 10 comprises, in addition to the enveloping element 14, a fastening device which cooperates with the enveloping element 14, around the edges in a closely abutting relationship To hold position. The fastening device shown in FIG. 1 is made up of two metal plates 16 and 18 produced, which are joined together in their center by welding points 20 can be. In some cases other welding techniques, rivets and even adhesives may be suitable.

The two plates 16 and 18 extend laterally from their center line and form a gripping or clamping device around the edges 22 and 24 of the encasing element. 14 to hold or clamp. The gripping devices formed by plates 16 and 18 include one first leg 26 and a second leg 28. The legs 26 and 28 form a channel 30 which extends lengthwise the wrapping device 10 extends. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, two such channels 30 extend along it each side of the wrap member 14 for receiving its edges 22 and 24. The fastening device may be any suitable Have length and a variety of fasteners can be attached to each other and with the wrap member 14 get connected.

The channels 30 are arranged so that the gripping means extend in opposite directions away from one another to receive the edges 22 and 24. In this way , the edges 22 and 24 are brought into a close abutting position when they are mated with the fastener. As a result of the closely abutting position, the wrapping element approaches a common line of contact at the corresponding locations of the respective edges 22 and 24. In this way, radial bulges or elevations which stand out from the generally cylindrical shape of the wrapping element are avoided. However, embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention

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which the channel elements are not in a substantially opposite direction Position are arranged.

The use of the channels 30, which serve to receive the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14, also ensures mutual alignment or alignment of the tensile loads generated by the thermal recovery of the wrapping element 14 and the forced loading of the fastening device resisting the tensile load will. This alignment or alignment prevents the creation of bending moments during the shrinkage of the wrapping element 14. As already mentioned above, such bending moments can lead to the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14 being pulled out of the fastening device. This problem is solved by designing the fastening device in such a way that such moments are avoided.

In order to ensure the functionality of the wrapping device 10, means are provided to press the legs 26 and 28 of each gripping or clamping device against one another. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, these means are created in that the plate 16 is produced as the first leg 26 from elastic material and it is ensured that the leg 26 is beveled or inclined with respect to the covering element 14 when the covering element enters the channel 30 is introduced. It is also advantageous if the first leg 26 is pressed against the second leg 28 in an inclined position, even if the enveloping element has not yet been inserted. Due to the inclined pressing of the legs 26 and 28 together, the enveloping element 14 is clamped in such a way that considerable friction has to be overcome in order to pull the edges 22 and 24 out of the fastening device. This resistance is further increased when the covering element 14 is recovered in the heat, since the thickness of the covering element 14 increases when it is shrunk onto the substrate 12.

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In order to further increase the clamping of the edges 22 and 24 of the enveloping element 14, holding means are provided at least at the ends of the first leg 26. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, a simple flange 32 extends from the first leg 26 inward and against the other leg. The flange 32 is obtained by bending or rolling the edges of the plate 16. The angle enclosed by the flange 32 can be up to to 90 °, but it is preferably about 45 ° in order to obtain optimal retention and to ensure easy assembly. In this way , the means for pressing the legs together and the retaining means cooperate to hold the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14 in a nearly abutting position.

As a result of the heat recovery of the enveloping element 14, this is increasingly held in the fastening device. if When the wrapping member 14 is recovered in heat to firmly wrap the substrate, the thickness of the film forming the wrapping member 14 increases. The increase in film thickness necessarily leads to an increase in the compression pressure, which is exerted on the enveloping element 14 near the edges 22 and 24 by the mutually inclined legs 26 and 28 will.

Furthermore, the near the edges prevents the cladding element 14 incline pressure exerted a complete thermal recovery of the heat recoverable sheet material. As a result a notch coinciding with the flanges 32 tends to allow the wrapping element 14 to easily engage with one another to cause the pinching element.

In order to increase the thickness and the tendency to form a notch or a groove in order to ensure that the enveloping element 14 is held in the fastening device, it is advantageous to

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the area of the wrapping member in the vicinity becomes useful of the fastening device is first heated to initiate heat recovery before the remainder of the encasing element is heated. In this way, the heat recovery will initially take place at the edges 22 and 24 in order to increase the retention of the To achieve wrapping element in the fastening device. Only after at least a partial heat recovery close to the Edges 22 and 24 takes place, a noticeable caused by the heat recovery of the remaining part of the enveloping element Tensile load occur. The extent of the expansion and the thickness of the wrapping element 14 can advantageously be used to make the fit between the channels 30 and to determine the edges 22 and 24 both before and after the heat recovery of the heat-recoverable wrapping element 14. That Wrap element 14 will be thinner as edges 22 and 24 are forced into channels 30. That way will makes it easier to insert the edges 22 and 24 into the fastener, while after final assembly the Pulling the edges 22 and 24 out of the channels 30 is very difficult.

Further embodiments and features of the present invention are to be explained below. Fig. 3 shows one toothed flange 32 with a plurality of teeth 34. When such teeth 34 are used in conjunction with certain materials are, the former will be pressed into the wrapping element 14 and thus ensure easy interlocking of the flange 32 with the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14. This interlocking is further enhanced by the heat recovery of the wrap member 14. As with the straight edge of the flange of the embodiments 1 and 2, the heat recovery of the cladding element 14 is due to the pressure of the flange 32 on the material, which recovers in the warmth, prevents something. The teeth 34 of the embodiment of FIG Pressure load increased by the inclination force of the leg 26.

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Thereby, the heat recovery of the cover member 14 is prevented to a greater extent, and at the same time, the locking effect becomes of the flange on the wrapping element 14 is increased. When sufficient tilt pressure is applied by leg 26 is, by increasing the temperature of the cladding element 14 to an area in which the heat recovery takes place, actually a further deformation of the enveloping element 14 from the relaxed state of the film material the place of the flange 32 take place. This will cause the flange 32 to snap into place in the wrapping element 14 near the edges 22 and 24 increased further.

In Figures 4, 5 and 6 is another according to the invention Embodiment shown. This embodiment has teeth that are formed directly from the first leg 26 and are directed from the outer edge of the leg 26 inward. The profile of the teeth 36 can be either that shown Shape or any other shape. Half-round teeth will hold the wrapping element 14 less point-wise, if so this poses a problem. The present invention encompasses the use of such, from the outer edge of the leg 26 inwardly facing teeth in a single row, as shown, 'in multiple rows, in a staggered arrangement and in combination with a flange 32.

The wrapping device according to the invention can be used for sealing or for enveloping connection points between pipelines, for example a connection between pipe sections a pipeline. With such a device, a liquid can be guided in the pipeline, which has a corrosive effect on the fastening device when they come into contact with one another. Furthermore a relatively rigid structure of the fastener could not provide as effective an enclosure as desired will. A protective seal can be used for such covers between the fastening device and the pipe end -

030026/0687

unity would be desirable. A wrapping device that these advantages are offered / shown in a side view in FIG. 7.

Fig. 7 shows a fastening device similar to that of Figures 1 and 2 are similar, although other fastening devices described herein can be used. the Wrapping device differs from that of FIGS. 1 and 2 or 4 and 5 in that a sealing element, an intermediate layer 37, is provided. The sealing liner 37, which is made of the same heat-recoverable material as the cladding element 14, is shown as placed between the fixture around the tube or other substrate (not shown). Preferably a layer of adhesive is placed between the sealing layer 37 and the wrapping element 14 is applied in order to ensure the functionality of the wrapping device. the Sealing liner usually becomes about the same Thickness as the cladding element and the fastening elements. When the whole is subjected to heat recovery, the sealing layer shrinks onto the substrate in the same way as the enveloping element itself.

Situations can also arise in which the fastening device must be protected from external influences. Wrapping devices which are capable of this are shown in side views in FIGS. 8 and 9. 8 shows a device with a fastening device, generally designated by the reference numeral 38, which differs from that of FIGS. 1 and 2 in that both plates 40 and 42 of the device form flat springs which are provided with holding means. In this case the flanges 44, 46, 48 and 50 form pairs of retaining means for each channel of the device. The flanges can be provided with teeth, as shown, for example, in FIG. 3. The device is provided with a sealing layer 52 on the top.

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MP 0283 ΛΙΠ "^ ' ^{/ J}

Their length is preferably the same as that of the fastening device, and it is wide enough so that its edges are easily inserted into the channels of the fastener 38 can be. The sealing layer consists of the same heat-recoverable material as the covering element 14. Due The intermediate sealing layer clings firmly to the fastening device and thus ensures that the heat is recovered a protection of the same.

In Fig. 9 a device is shown in which the enveloping element 14 is used at the same time as a sealing layer on the top of the device. The illustrated fastening device is similar to that of Figures 1 and 2, although that of Figures 4 and 5 or 8 is also used can be.

As shown in FIG. 9, the wrapping element 14 is attached is folded lengthwise at point 54 and the fold is inserted into channel 58 as one end 56 of the envelope. Of the The remainder of the wrapping element 14 is wrapped around the fastening device and its end 60 is connected to the the other end 62 of the wrapping element is inserted into the channel 64 to complete the assembly. During heat recovery the sealing layer nestles closely to the fastening device and thus provides protection for the same,

Other variations of the fastening device included in the frame useful in the present invention are illustrated in Figures 10-14. Figures 10 and 11 show an apparatus 66, which, in a similar manner to the device of FIGS. 1 and 2, consists of two plates. However, these are both plates are provided with slots 68 and 70. Such a device is particularly suitable when large tracks are required Wrapping material can be used as this facilitates the introduction of the ends. It is obvious to a person skilled in the art that both plates with retaining means in the form of flanges,

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as shown for the top plate, or with teeth, as shown in Fig. 6, can be provided.

Another fastening device is shown in FIGS through 14. The fastening device 72 differs from those shown so far in that it consists of a single plate can be produced. As shown, the fastener 72 can be formed by slitting a Base plate, for example 'a metallic plate, can be obtained, with a plurality of sections 74 and 76, such as shown, received ". The remaining sections can be so are deformed so that they form channels to receive the wrapping element. As shown in this figure, exist the restraint means consists of a double row of teeth 78, albeit a single row of teeth or a bent one or rolled edge, either smooth or serrated, can also be used. One as shown in FIG Sealing layer 37 can be used to seal the fastening devices shown in FIGS will.

While the embodiments of the fastening device explained above have been described with reference to metallic devices, it is obvious that every other suitable material can be used for their manufacture. Of the metallic materials, stainless steel is preferred. Suitable non-metallic materials include high temperature bakelite, stilane polyarylene polymers (Raychem Corporation) a.

When assembling the casing, the enclosure member is to de ^v n elongate object to be wrapped, wound, for example, a pipeline at a junction between each section and the ends of the enveloping member 14 are then in the channels of a fixing device as described above in an almost

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ORIGINAL INSPECTED

butting position introduced. Between the wrapping element 14 and the elongated object can be an adhesive to ensure a leak-proof seal be applied. An adhesive can also be used to connect the enveloping element to the fastening device be used. The adhesives used are preferably those used, which can be activated in the heat to make a better seal during the heat recovery process guarantee.

Once the wrapping device has been assembled, the wrapping element 14 is subjected to a heat treatment, whereby this "shrinks" onto the object to be enclosed. Thus, the present invention provides a heat retrievable wrapping device that is easy to use Way in any desired size using heat recoverable Material in a form that does not require any pre-treatment or special manufacturing methods can. The wrapping device according to the invention can be used for a large number of substrates.

According to another embodiment of the wrapping device according to the invention the fastening device is in a substantially distortion-free state when the legs are in one of the two positions, that is, either in the first or in the second position, with these embodiments are provided with holding means which hold the legs in the other of the two positions.

These special embodiments of the device according to the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to FIGS. 15 to 30 and 39 to 44. In these drawings shows

15 shows a perspective view of an inventive Wrapping device disposed around a substrate around in a pre-heat recovery state;

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16 shows a side view of a first according to the invention

Embodiment, wherein the fastening device is in a first, open position; FIG. 17 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 16, wherein the fastening device is in a second, closed position; Fig. 18 is a detailed plan view of the fastening device of Fig. 16 with the tooth construction; 19 shows a side view of a second according to the invention

Embodiment;
20 shows a side view of a third according to the invention

Embodiment;
21 shows a perspective view of an inventive

Embodiment;
Fig. 2 2 shows a side view of a further according to the invention

Embodiment;
23 is a side view of another according to the invention

Embodiment; ;

24 shows a perspective view of an embodiment according to the invention, the fastening device being in a first, open position; FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of the embodiment from FIG. 24, the fastening device being in a second, closed position; FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment according to the invention;
27 is a perspective view of another inventive

according to embodiment;
28 shows a side view of a further according to the invention

Embodiment;
29 is a side view of another according to the invention

Embodiment;

Fig. 30 is a perspective view of another according to the invention Embodiment;

FIGS. 31 to 39 show another form of the envelope according to FIG Invention as described below;

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39 is a partial side view of another in accordance with the invention Embodiment using a bimetallic element, the fastening device in a

first, open position is shown; FIG. 40 is a partial side view of the embodiment of FIG. 39; wherein the fastening device is in a second,

closed position; 41 shows a further embodiment of the present invention, wherein the fastening device is in a first,

open position;
FIG. 42 shows a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 41, the fastening device being in a second,

closed position; Fig. 43 is a side view of another according to the invention Embodiment, wherein the fastening device

is in a first, open position; FIG. 44 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 43, wherein the fastening device is in a second, closed position.

The various embodiments shown in the drawings include a fastening device with a film-like wrapping material is combined. Each fastening device includes special clamping means, the two Can assume positions, a first position allowing easy insertion of an edge of the wrapping element into the clamping means allowed, and a second position in which the intermediate covering element is firmly clamped. In In most cases, one or the other of these two positions is achieved by providing means that achieve the Strongly distort or deform the fastening device, while the other position is obtained by the Fixing device released from its severely distorted state. In some embodiments, the opened Position of the clamping means, the undistorted state of the fastening device while in other embodiments

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the closed holding position of the jamming means represents the undistorted or undeformed state.

To illustrate the overall configuration of the wrapping device according to the invention, FIG. 15 shows such a device, generally identified by the reference numeral 10, around a substrate 12. The wrapping device 10 is in a state before heat recovery and is therefore loosely arranged around the substrate 12. For the sake of clarity, the wrapping device 10 is shown in relatively short form in the drawings. It is obvious that the encasing devices can, however, in practice be much longer, for example when they are used as insulating enclosures and not just for sealing a connection point. In addition, the device can be of any size required and adapted to a given substrate 12 or a plurality of substrates. Of course, the proportional size of the components with respect to one another depends to a large extent on the diameter of the encasing device and the tensile forces exerted on the device during heat recovery.

The wrapping device 10 includes a wrapping member 14 of a generally sheet-like configuration. The wrapping member 14 is made of a heat-recoverable material which, as shown in FIG. 15, is loosely arranged around the substrate 12 in a state before heat recovery. In the context of the present invention, a heat recoverable material is considered to be one which consists of an original, in the. Heat dimensionally stable state has been converted into a heat dimensionally unstable state, and is able to return to its original shape when heat is applied. The ability to return to its original shape can be referred to as "elastic memory". In the context of the present invention, heat-recoverable films or film-like materials are preferably used which

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shrink to a smaller size, measured between the edges that are to be brought into an almost abutting position. During heat recovery, the longitudinal expansion should be of the film remain essentially constant, while the thickness of the film increases with increasing shrinkage. Examples such heat recoverable materials are described in U.S. Patent 3,086,242, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein should be included. In general, a material exhibiting heat recoverable properties can thereby be obtained be that one has a suitable polymeric material to a temperature above its crystalline melting point or area heated. At this temperature it is stretched and then cooled in the stretched state. Above its crystalline Melting temperature shows this material, if it is not held, an "elastic memory", that is' it will essentially return to the shape it was in before stretching. In the context of the present invention preferably those polymeric materials used by chemical treatment or by irradiation, for example with high-energy electrons or nuclear radiation, although other polymeric materials are also used to which the ability of heat recovery can be imparted.

Such heat-recoverable materials described can easily be produced in endless webs and in a suitable manner in Be kept in the form of rolls. The wrapping element 14 can be made of such rolls or in the desired length and width cut out other long foils. The dimensions usually depend on the elongate object being is to be enveloped, and they can easily be determined or determined by the person skilled in the art. When the cladding element has been properly cut, it can be done without further modification or treatment, as is the case with the known devices is necessary to be used immediately.

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The wrapping device 10 comprises, in addition to the wrapping element 14, a fastening device that is connected to the wrapping element 14 cooperates in such a way that the edges of the wrapping element are in an almost abutting position being held. The embodiment of the fastening device shown in FIG. 15 consists of two metal plates 16 and 18, which were welded together in their center line by a series of welding points 20. the Plates 16 and 18 are preferably of an elastic, metallic nature. For this purpose, steel sheets have proven to be preferred Proven material. Of course, the plates 16 and 18 can also be joined together in other ways than by welding points 20 will. In certain cases, other welding techniques, rivets, and even adhesives may be suitable. Like the following Explanation of further embodiments according to the invention shows, the fastening devices can also consist of one Piece to be produced.

Generally, the fasteners form a pair of opposing channels that can accommodate the edges of a wrapping element 14 in such a way that the edges of the Wrapping element 14 are present in an almost abutting position. There is thus a mutual alignment the tensile stress on the covering element 14 with that imposed by the fastening device on the covering element Stress or load, so that bending moments on the fastening device are eliminated that would otherwise affect the cladding element 14 would pull out when subjected to heat recovery. There are still means of restraint provided which extend inwardly to clamp the wrapping element 14 firmly.

In FIGS. 16 to 23, 39 and 40, the fastening device the above-mentioned metal plates 16 and 18 are used, which are welded together at the points 20 are connected. For the formation of grafting agents extend

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the two panels 16 and 18 laterally from their center line to clamp the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14. The shrinking means formed by the panels 16 and 18 include a first leg 26 and a second leg 28. The legs 26 and 28 form the channels 30 which run lengthwise along the fastener. The fastening device can be of any length and a variety of fasteners can be butted together for connection to the enclosure member 14. The channels 30 are arranged so that the gauging means extend in opposite directions away from one another to receive the edges 22 and 24. In this way the edges 22 and 24 are brought into a nearly abutting position when they are mated with the fastener. By nearly contiguous position, the enveloping member of a common line of contact at the respective points closer to each edge 22 and 24. In this manner, ridges or elevations, which rise above the generally cylindrical shape of the enveloping member avoided. However, the present invention also encompasses those channel elements which are arranged in a position other than the substantially opposite position.

As a further alternative, a sticky, crosslinked (non-melting) strip bonded to the clamping means, a strip of emery paper or any other means by which the friction between the fastening device or the clamping means and the wrapping element is increased can be used as a retaining means. The use of an adhesive strip as a restraining means also has a second advantage. This strip can serve as a sealing means which cooperates with the wrapping element and the fastening device in order to completely enclose the substrate.

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The use of channels 30, which serve to receive the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14, also provide a mutual alignment of the by the heat recovery of the cladding element 14 generated tensile load and the imposed tension or load on the fastening device, that withstands tensile stress. This alignment prevents any bending moments from being generated by the Shrinkage of the wrapping element 14 is avoided. As already mentioned above, such bending moments tend to affect the edges 22 and 24 of the enveloping element 14 to be pulled out of the fastening device. This problem is solved by having the Fastening device designed in such a way that such moments do not occur.

About gripping or pinching the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14 are on the inside of at least one of the two legs 26 and 28 of each Channel 30 retention means provided. It can be used for this purpose a simple flange 32, which of one or from two legs 26 and 28 is directed against the opposite leg. The flange 32 can be obtained by the edges of the plates 16 and 18 are bent or rolled over. The angle enclosed by the flange 32 can be up to 90 °, however, this is preferably about 45 °. The flange can be flat along its edge or can be serrated to form a plurality of teeth. if If serration is used, the teeth will dig a little into the encasing element 14 and there will be a slight Engaging the flanges 32 with the edges 22 and 24 of the wrap member 14.

Other retention means in the form of teeth 34 formed directly from the legs 26 and 28 can also be provided and are directed inwards from the outer edge of these legs. The profile of the teeth 34 can be the

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MP 0283

posed shape, or it can be any other suitable shape accept. Half-round teeth would pinch the wrapping element 14 less punctually if this were a problem should. In the context of the present invention, those are directed inward from the outer edge of the legs 26 and 28 Teeth both in a row and in a variety of rows, in a staggered arrangement and in combination can be used with a flange 32. In embodiments in which the fastening device is made of plastic or any consists of other castable or extrudable material, the retaining means may comprise a plurality of flanges, which are arranged in series on each leg 26 and 28.

The wrapping element 14 is thereby further increasingly retained in the fastening device when the wrapping element 14 is subjected to the heat recovery treatment. if the wrapping element 14 recovers in the heat to tightly enclose the substrate, the thickness of the film, which the Wrapping element 14 forms, increase. The increase in film thickness necessarily increases the compression pressure, which is exerted by the legs 26 and 28 on the wrapping element 14 near the edges 22 and 24. Since the flanges 32 and the teeth 34 exert an increased pressure on the heat-recovering covering element 14, a complete Heat recovery of the heat recoverable sheet material can be prevented. This forms a notch or groove on the Place at which the restraint means rest, and this groove causes the enveloping element to snap into place slightly 14 with the clamping means.

To the increased thickness and the tendency to form a groove, to the retention of the wrapping element 14 in the fastening device To ensure that it can be used advantageously, the area of the should first be used to initiate heat recovery Envelope element, which is located in the vicinity of the fastening device, are heated before the remaining part of the

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Wrapping element 14 is heated. In this way, the heat recovery will initially take place at the edges 22 and 24, and this leads to an increasing retention of the enveloping element in the fastening device. Only after that an at least partial heat recovery has occurred near the edges 22 and 24, is caused by the heat recovery of the rest Part of the enveloping element a noticeable or considerable tensile stress occur. The amount of expansion and the thickness of the enveloping element 14 can be used in an advantageous manner to the seat between the channels 30 and the To determine or to determine edges 22 and 24 both before and after the heat recovery of the heat-recoverable enveloping element 14 determine. The moment the edges 22 and 24 are pressed into the channels 30, the wrapping element becomes 14 be thinner. In this way, the introduction of the edges 22 and 24 into the fastening device is facilitated, while after the final assembly, it is very difficult to pull the edges 22 and 24 out of the channels 30.

The fastening device of the present invention is designed to have at least two configurations or positions can take, on the one hand to facilitate assembly and on the other hand a strong clamping of the edges 22 and of the enveloping element 14 to ensure. In the first of the two possible positions the fastening device can take, it is in a substantially distortion-free or relaxed state. The other of the two possible Positions can then be obtained by deforming the clamping means to a second position. Each of the Both possible positions can represent the distortion-free position, while the other position then represents the deformed one State represents. Both possibilities are covered by the present invention.

The terms "relaxed state" or "distortion-free state" are used here to denote the state »

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MP 0283

into which the gill means will be placed, including the mechanism by which the gill means is maintained in the deformed configuration the mechanism of heat recovery, is removed. For the most part the "relaxed state" is the one Represents the position in which the wrapping element is retained by the fastening device, the fastening device not be completely free of distortion. However, the relative relaxation of the fastening device in this state is referred to as the "relaxed state" or "distortion-free state" because the remaining deformation is more likely by the wrapping element than by the deforming mechanism caused.

The two positions of the fastening device or means in any of these systems also include configurations in which there is slight contact or friction between the fastening device and the encasing member when the fastening device is in the open position. With such configurations, some force will be required to insert the edges of the wrap member into the channels. When the retaining device is brought from the open to the closed state, the enveloping element is firmly held in position and can no longer be pulled out. The advantage of some friction or contact between the covering element and the fastening device in the open position is that the covering element and the fastening device do not have to be held together by hand or in any other way while the device is being transferred to the second position.

In order to maintain the deformed or the distorted state, holding means are provided on the fastening device, which hold the clamping means in a distorted or deformed state. The distorted configuration can either be the

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MP 0283

the open or closed position of the legs 26 and 28, and a variety of structures and mechanisms can be used. As such mechanisms can Examples include: removable holders, collapsible Brackets, clamping devices or wedging devices, the ability of the fastening device to be heat recoverable even and materials with low strengths in heat and low melting points. To make a The wrapping device can thus comprise a variety of fastening devices, including means for securing the fastening device to hold in a deformed position, together with the sheet-like element 14 can be used. It will further explains a method by which the enclosure assembly using distorted and distortion-free Positions of a fastening device can be made or completed.

In FIGS. 16 and 17, an embodiment according to the invention is shown, which has a structure similar to that of FIG embodiment shown in Fig. 15, but it is shown here in greater detail. The fastening device comprises two metal plates 16 and 18, which are each joined at their center line by welding points. In the embodiment of Figure 16, the metal plates 16 and 18 are essentially identical and may have flanges 32 and teeth 34. The channels 30 that connect the single cycle means on each side of the fastener 16, the first and second legs 26 and 28 for receiving the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14 are spaced apart from one another. To correct the deformed configuration of the metal plate 16 obtained, a tear-off strip 36 is used as a retaining means. The tear-off strip 36 comprises a strip-shaped one Main part 38, which is sufficiently narrower than the relaxed width of the metal plate 16, so that the metal plate 16, as shown, can be bent in order to ensure easy insertion of the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14.

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At the same time, the tear-off strip 36 should be wide enough so that an inelastic deformation prevents the retention of the Fastening device does not diminish when it occupies the second, closed position. Flanges or bent edges 40 extend downwardly and inwardly from the main portion 38 of the tear-off strip 36, around the outer edges to hold the plate 16. The tear-off strip may suitably have a one-piece, metallic configuration in the form of a channel with the flanges 40 being bent over or rolling the edges of the tear-off strip 36 can be obtained. However, it can also be plastic material for the Tear-off strips can be used. Such plastic material can also be used for the plates 16 and 18 themselves.

When the tear-off strip is in place, take the clamping means a first, open position so that the wrapping element 14 can be easily inserted. When the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14 have been brought into position, the tear-off strip 36 is removed from the plate 16. The fastening device is preferably held in position so that the sheathing element 14 does not come out of the channels pulled out when the tear-off strip is removed. Once the tear-off strip 36 is removed, take the panels 16 and 18 a second, closed position, wherein the legs 26 and 28 are arranged closely together and the Hold the wrapping element 14 between them. The fastening device is designed so that when completely relaxed Position of the jamming means a channel 30 is formed which is narrower than the inserted enveloping element 14 the restraint means, when the wrapping element 14 is arranged between the legs 26 and 28, in an inclined position pressed against the wrapping element 14 in order to ensure the functionality of the wrapping device. As already mentioned above, the heat recovery of the wrapping member 14 results in increased retention of the ends thereof in

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the fastening device between the plates 16 and 18 lead, which are pressed against each other in an inclined position to hold the edges in place.

In Fig. 19, an alternative means for holding the clamping means in a distorted or deformed state is shown. The fastening device of FIG. 19 can be identical to the embodiment of FIGS. 16 and 17. Accordingly, the relaxed or distortion-free position also represents the second position of the fastening device here. Instead of the tear-off strip 36 of FIG. 16, a collapsible support 42 is used. The collapsible support 42 is positioned in each channel 30 between the first and second legs 26 and 28 to deform the fastener into an open position to receive the edges 22 and 24 of the wrap member 14. As already described in the previous embodiment, it is preferred that the collapsible support 42 hold the legs 26 and 28 far enough apart to allow easy insertion of the edge of the wrap member 14.

ensure, while at the same time no inelastic deformation of the plates 16 and 18 takes place.

The collapsible support 42 can be made of any suitable material and have any suitable configuration. However, two plastic strips 44 and 46 with a thin, bendable strip 48 are regarded as an advantageous configuration, the latter serving as a hinge or joint. The two strips 44 and 46 each have a beveled edge so that an obtuse angle is formed between the strips 44 and 46. The bendable strip 48 is then attached to the strip

44 and 46, on the other side than that Side of the two strips 44 and 46 that have the obtuse angle. Around the collapsible support 42 in place In this way, an "over center" mechanism is used. To the device for

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ORIGINAL INSPECTED

To collapse, strips 44 and 46 must have a Perform kind of rotational movement relative to each other so that the overall dimension of the collapsible support 42 before collapsing becomes slightly larger. When assembling the wrapping device using such a collapsible If support 4 2 takes place, the enveloping element 14 is introduced and approximately in the area of the joint or hinge ″ 48 pressed against the collapsible support 42. By introducing the wrapping element 14, the collapsible The support is pushed beyond its center line, and this then collapses. Once the collapsible support 42 collapses, the legs 26 and 28 approach the second position of the clamping means, the restraint means clamp and hold the wrapping element 14 firmly. The plastic strips 44 and 46 must be so thin that the legs 26 and 28 clamp the wrap member 14 tightly with the strips 44 and 46 in the collapsed position side on Side lying. In some cases it can also be advantageous to remove the folded support 4 2. This can be done by be done by pulling out the folded support 42 at the end of the fastening device in the longitudinal direction. Because it In some cases it can be difficult to get the full length of the edges 22 and 24 into the fastener at the same time introduce, it may be advantageous to provide the collapsible support 42 only for short sections, so that a complete collapsing of the support 42 can be avoided before the entire length of either of the two edges 22 or of the wrapping element 14 has been brought into position.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 20, a support 50 is also used. The support 50 consists of a simple one Strip of material stiff enough to hold the clamping means in the first position, with the legs 26 and 28 are spaced apart. The support 50 can also consist of metallic or plastic material here.

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The support 50 is sufficiently thin that it can be pleated between the legs 26 and 28 when an edge of the Wrapping element 14 is introduced. When the folding has taken place, the clamping means can assume the second position, the legs 26 and 28 being closed and enclosing the encasing element 14 lying therebetween.

Still referring to those in the previous embodiments fastening devices used, Fig. 21 shows a further support 52, which should not be collapsible, but is pulled out lengthways between the first and second legs 26 and 28 so that they are gradually pulled out may collapse when the support 52 is pulled out. The gradually collapsing of the thighs 26 and 28 in the second position to hold a wrapping element 14 located therebetween is particularly long Wrapping elements suitable where it is difficult or even impossible to put the entire wrapping element 14 in one of the two channels of the fastening device without holding at least part of it in the desired position. Under use a support, which can be pulled lengthwise out of the fastening device, becomes the covering element 14 gradually pinched as the support is removed. As a result, the entire encasing element 14 can gradually be clamped in without this initially being entirely in the fastening device is held in position.

Using the same fastening device as in the previous embodiments, FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 shows an embodiment in which the first, open position of the legs 26 and 28 is in a deformed manner or bent state by using a low-friction element, which acts as a holding means between the Retaining means is used before or during the introduction of the enveloping element 14 brings it into the desired position. at of the embodiment of Fig. 22 is a member 54 which

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has a low friction, prior to the assembly of the wrapping element 14 with the fastening device on a Edge 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14 attached. The wrapping element 14 and the element 54, which has a low Has friction, are then introduced together between the legs 26 and 28. As soon as the covering element 14 is inserted is, the legs 26 and 28 assume the first, open position, the gill means in a deformed or bent state. Due to the open position, the envelope element 14, which the element 54, the one has low friction, follows between the restraint means in the final position as shown on the left shown in Fig. 22 can be spread.

The element 54, which should have a low friction, can be made of a non-tarnishing or rustproof metallic Material or hard plastic material. The element 54 can extend over the entire length of the edges 22 and 24 of the Wrapping element 14 may extend, or it may only extend at selected intervals along the edge of the wrapping element 14 be arranged. In the latter configuration, the elements 54 must be arranged so close to one another that that the legs 26 and 28 do not bend inward in such a way that the sheath element 14 can pass through into the channel 30 is hindered.

So that the standardized covering element 14 can be used for a variety of purposes, the elements 54 can be in a simple manner once the wrap member 14 has been cut to the appropriate size in place. There the restraint means are designed so that they clamp the wrapping element 14 firmly, the element 54 is to It is not necessary to hold the wrapping element 14 in the desired position. It is therefore not necessary to include this element in to be fixed rigidly on the wrapping element 14. Nevertheless, the element 54 'can be used as an additional precautionary measure

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would take with the edges 22 and 24 of the wrapping element 14 be connected.

If it is advantageous to use one of the fastening devices To avoid separate low friction element, element 56 as shown in FIG. 23 can be used will be used. In this embodiment, the low friction member 56 is pre-interposed the legs 26 and 28 have been brought into position. During assembly, the encasing element 14 then only has to be inserted into the generally U-shaped element 56, which has a low friction, are pushed in. The element 56 is pressed in this way between the retaining means in such a way that the legs 26 and 28 are in the second position can coincide in order to hold or clamp the enveloping element 14.

As already mentioned above, the first, open position can also ensure the distortion-free state of the fastening device represent, instead of the second, closed position. The embodiments shown in FIGS. 24 to 30 explain such fastening devices, in which the distortion-free state of the fastening device is the open Represents configuration of the locking means, and means are provided which are provided for deforming the clamping means in order to press the legs against one another, thereby the edges of a wrapping element can be held in an almost abutting position. In Fig. 24 is discloses a fastening device which is a one-piece construction of metallic or plastic material, which has been appropriately extruded or cast and thus does not require an expensive manufacturing device. The one-piece fastening device 58 consists a relatively rigid base 60 terminated by raised flanges 62 and 64 at each end. The increased Flanges 62 and 64 form at least part of the retaining

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INSPECTED

means that can pinch the wrapping element 14. Two webs 66 and 68 extend upward from the base 60, which are separated from one another by a longitudinal gap 70, with the help of which a lateral bending of the webs 66 and 68 can be done relative to each other. Arms 72 and 74 extend laterally from webs 66 and 68, each parallel to of base 60. Flanges 76 and 78 extend downwardly from arms 72 and 74, toward the raised flanges, respectively 62 and 64. In this way, base 60, webs 66 and 68, and arms 72 and 74 form opposing channels 80. These channels 8 0 are designed and constructed in such a way that they extend onto the edges of a film-like enveloping element 14 can accommodate the same way as was described in previous embodiments.

Oval recesses 82 extend along the gap 70, which are formed by grooves or recesses in the webs 66 and 68, down towards the base 60. The oval cavities 82 are preferably cylindrical Shape to prevent a cam or bolt located in them from falling out. The bolts 84, which also have a have an oval cross-section, are inserted into the oval cavities 82. The bolts 84 preferably have such dimensions, that a friction-tight fit in the oval cavities 82 is guaranteed, so that the bolts 84 do not come out of the cavities 82 can fall out. In order to be able to rotate the bolts 84, means are provided for this at the upper end of the same. In the present embodiment, slots 86 are provided for a screwdriver to use for this purpose can be.

When assembling the fastening device 58 with a sheathing element 14, the latter is wrapped around a substrate and edges 22 and 24 of wrap member 14 inserted into channels 80. The '84 bolts will then be like this can be seen in Fig. 25, rotated so that its major axes

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are perpendicular to the main axes of the oval cavities 82. The major axes of the oval cavities 82 are preferably in line with the gap 70 so that the webs 86 and 88 be pushed away from each other by twisting the bolts 84. As a result, the arms 72 and 74 perform such a rotational movement that the attached flanges 76 and 78 are pressed against the flanges 62 and 64 connected to the base 60. The various flanges 62, 64, 76 and 78 are the encasing element 14 arranged between them in the second, Clamp the closed position tightly and complete the wrap.

A fastener 88 similar to fastener 58 is shown in FIG. The gap 90 however, includes a cylindrical cavity 92 which extends longitudinally between the webs 66 and 68. Ongoing with the cylindrical cavity 92 a wedge-shaped cavity 94 is provided, which is also lengthwise between the webs 66 and 68 runs. The lateral diameter of the wedge-shaped cavity 94 increases in the longitudinal direction of the fastening device 88 to. A rod 96 fixed in the cylindrical cavity 92, which is one of the wedge-shaped cavities corresponding wedge 98 can be inserted into the gap 90 of the fastening device 88.

When assembling a wrapping device using the fastener 88, a wrapping member 14 is shown in FIG wrapped around a substrate such that edges 22 and 24 are aligned in channels 80. The rod 96 and the wedge 98 are then inserted into the gap 90 and driven longitudinally into the fastening device in such a way that that the wedge is pressed against the wedge-shaped cavity and thus the arms 72 3Jid 74 one, as in the Perform the rotary movement described in the previous embodiment and clamp the encasing element 14. The wedge 98 can be in the gap 90 by simple frictional forces or by

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ORIGINAL INSPECTED

MP 0283 V3 29A9173

Glue or other conventional means.

Three other embodiments similar to those of the figures 24 and 27 are shown in Figs. 28-30. Here, too, the fastening devices 100, 102 and very similar to the fastening device 58, except that the shape of the gaps 106, 108 and 110 is a different shape exhibit. In the embodiment of Figure 28, a simple wedge 112 is driven into a tapered gap. In the embodiment of Fig. 29, a bolt or a cam with a square cross-section is rotated so that that the corners of the bolt 114 in longitudinal channels 116 and 118 be arranged so that the arms 72 and 74 are forced into the second position for clamping the wrapping element 14 will. Flanges 120 and 122 extend across gap 108 so that bolt 114 is held in place until it engages Longitudinal channels 116 and 118 is wedged.

In the embodiment of FIG. 30, a simple cylindrical cavity 124 extends longitudinally between the Bars 66 and 68. During assembly, a draw cord 126 is inserted into the cylindrical cavity 124 in order to to bring arms 72 and 74 to the second, closed position. The cone train 126 has a first longitudinal piece 128 which has a cross-section that allows easy insertion into and passage through the cylindrical cavity 124. A second longitudinal piece 130 has a larger diameter or cross section, as a result of which the cylindrical cavity 124 expands when the cone pull is pulled through. By using such a cone train 126, the fastening device 104 are gradually deformed in the way that the cone train 126 is pulled through. One by one Any deformation of the fastening device 104 that takes place can be of considerable advantage if the wrapping device is relatively long. The wrapping element 14 can gradually combined with the fastening device 104

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are added, as the cone train 126 is gradually pulled through will. As a result, a complete assembly of the enveloping element 14 with the fastening device is possible before Deformation of the fastening device into the second, closed position is not necessary.

Another embodiment, similar to those just described, but using a different bolt arrangement, is shown in FIG. The fastener 132 includes a base 134 that extends to the raised flanges 136 and 138. A central web 140 extends perpendicular to the base 134 upward to the arms 142 and 144, which extend outward in a similar direction as the base 134. Underneath the arms 142 and 144, plates 146 and 148 extend laterally outwardly away from the web 144 in a direction parallel to the arms 142 and 144. Along the undersides of the arms 142 and 144 , semicircular channels 150 and 152 extend in the longitudinal direction, respectively the channels 150 and 152 are semicircular bolts 154 and 156. The size of the bolts is such that they extend from the semicircular channels 150 and 152 to the plates 146 and 148 and touch them. Rotation of semicircular bolts 154 and 156 urges plates 146 and 148 downward toward base 134. Flanges 158 and 160 are provided along the edges of plates 146 and 148, respectively, which move in the direction of flanges 136 and 138 connected to base 134. As a result of the rotation of the semicircular bolts 154 and 156, the fastening device 132 changes from the first, open position to the second, closed position, an intermediate encasing element 14 being held in place by the individual flanges 136, 138, 158 and 160.

In the embodiments of FIGS. 31 to 44, the effect of heat is applied as a means of transferring the fastening device

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device used from a first, open position to a second, closed position. One of these positions of these configurations is of course the deformed or distorted state, and the mechanism of heat recoverability, meltability and temperature-dependent strength loss serves as a means to convert the fastening device from the deformed or distorted state to the distortion-free state. In certain embodiments, suitable starting materials can be, for example, the heat-recoverable metals described in U.S. Patents 3,012,882, 3,174,851, 3,753,700, 3,913,444, BE-PSs 703,649, 749,851, 758 861 and 758 862 are described. The disclosures of these patents or applications are intended to be included here. These various heat-recoverable metals exhibit a wide range of physical properties when heated to certain temperatures. In general, these metals show a loss of strength in certain temperature ranges and, as discussed above, this property can be referred to as a kind of "elastic memory". Plastic building materials which can be obtained in crosslinked form and which also have the property of "elastic memory" can also be used. Such materials are described in U.S. Patent 3,086,242, the entire disclosure of which is intended to be incorporated herein.

In the embodiment of Figures 39 and 40, a thermally reactive element or support 194 is used. The support 194 may be bimetallic or fusible, or may have decreased strength at elevated temperatures exhibit. The fastening device 192 can be identical to the embodiments of FIGS. The support 194 is used for the clamping means of the fastening device to hold in the first, open position so that the wrapping element 14 can be received.

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If a bimetallic support 194 is used, it will bend when heated. The initial deflection of the support 194, due to its bimetallic nature, results in its instability. As soon as the instability occurs, the bimetallic support will be inelastically deformed, as shown in FIG. As soon as the inelastic deformation has taken place, the clamping or gripping means of the fastening device 192 assume a second, closed position and clamp the encasing element 14 located between them. As a result of the inelastic bending of the bimetallic supports 194, they will no longer return to their original shape, regardless of the temperature exerted on the folded supports 194.

If thermally softenable or fusible supports 194 are used, structural change or failure will also occur from the application of heat. Because of the inelastic nature of the collapse or collapse, when heat is applied again, there is no weakening or no opening of the clamping means .

In FIGS. 41 and 42, variations of the embodiments of FIGS. 24 to 26 and 28 to 30 are shown, the wedge or the bolt being replaced by a heat retrievable element 196 which is arranged in the gap 198 of the fastening device. When the heat retrievable element 196 is subjected to a temperature increase up to a temperature range within which heat recovery occurs, the heat retrievable element 196 functions as a bolt wedge, since it is thereby forced to widen the gap 98. In this case, the open position for receiving the enveloping element is before the heat recovery of the heat-recoverable element 196, and the closed position, with the enveloping element 14 being clamped, is achieved by subjecting the element 196 to a heat recovery.

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030026/0687 ORIGINAL INSPECTED

The embodiment of FIGS. 43 and 44 comprises a fastening device 202, which is also activated in the heat. However, the heat is used here to melt an easily meltable material. The opposite channels 204 are formed by a base 206 ₍ parallel webs 212 and 214 extending upwards from the base 206 and by the arms 216 and 218 which extend parallel to the base 206 from the webs 212 and 214 outwards Between the webs 212 and 214 there is a series of springs 224 which, when the fastening device 202 is allowed to pass into its relaxed state, press the clamping or clamping means into a closed configuration in order to prevent the between the teeth 208, 210, 220 and 222. The first, open position is obtained in that the fastening device 202 is deformed in such a way that the channels 204 allow easy penetration of the edges of the enveloping element 14, and a fusible between the webs 212 and 214 The fusible material is allowed to solidify and the fastener 202 becomes a wrapper Do not pinch ement 14 until the fusible material is reheated. It should be pointed out that a hot-melt adhesive can be used as the meltable material and that it is not necessary to encapsulate the spring within the material. In a further development of this embodiment and the embodiment of FIGS. 41 and 42, the heat-activatable materials can have an electrical or a chemical heating element in order to initiate the thermal actuation of the fastening device.

Figures 31 through 38, previously mentioned, illustrate heat activatable fastening devices that differ from those of the figures 39 to 44 differ. In the relevant drawings show:

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31 shows a side view of an embodiment according to the invention, the fastening device in a first,

open position is present; FIG. 32 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 31, wherein the fastening device in a second,

closed position is present; Fig. 33 is a side view of another according to the invention

Embodiment in the first, open position; FIG. 34 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 33, wherein the fastening device in a second,

closed position is present; 35 is a side view of a further embodiment According to the invention made of heat-recoverable material, the fastening device in an open position

Position is shown;
36 shows a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 35, the fastening device in a second,

shown closed position; 37 shows a side view of a further according to the invention Embodiment, wherein the fastening device in

a first, open position is present; FIG. 38 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 37, the fastener being shown in a second, closed position.

In FIGS. 31 to 44, an H-beam configuration for the fastener 162 is used. A first flange 166 is rigidly connected to a second flange 164 by means of a web 168 lying therebetween. Be that way two channels 170 formed. In all cases, below the flange 164 on each side of the web 168 is a heat retrievable Element 172 is provided. The heat retrievable element is designed to be thicker towards the first flange 166 and thereby the width of the channel 170 is reduced. As a result, the fastening device 162 can be subjected to selective heat recovery a first, open position for receiving a wrapping

_ 47 _

030026/0687 ORIGiNAL / NSPECTiD

elements 14 and a second, closed position '/ to pinch The wrapping in between is lenient 14 take in. The modified embodiment shown in Figures 33 and 44 has a number of teeth on it Inside of the first flange 166 on each side of the web 168 on. A housing portion 174 extends around the second flange 164 and the heat retrievable element 172 around inside in the direction of the web 168. The housing part 174 also has teeth which, together with those on the first flange 166 located teeth can assume a latching position with the encasing element 14 located between them, in order to ensure that the wrapping element 14 is held in place.

The embodiments shown in Figures 35 to 38 are generally one-piece constructions made of a material which has the property of an "elastic memory". In Fig. 35 a fastening device 176 is shown, which is in the heat recoverable position. A generally H-beam shaped configuration is shown, the has a first and a second flange 178 and 180 which are connected to one another by a web 182. Along the outer edges of the flanges 178 and 180 are raised areas for clamping in the channels 184 Enclosure element 14. During heat recovery, the fastening device 176 assumes a second, closed position, as can be seen from FIG. 36.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 37 and 38 is similar to the embodiments just described. However is a relatively thin area or web is provided between the two channels 188 of the fastening device 190, so that the channels 188 can be bent relative to one another in order to adapt Umhüllungselemente 14, the substrates are wrapped around with relatively small diameters. Here, too, the channels 188 take a first, open position Recording of the enveloping element 14 when the device

_ 48 _

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MP 0283

t is in dom recoverable state while it is assume a second, closed configuration when in the relaxed state.

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Claims (16)

Claims A heat recoverable enveloping device comprising a heat retrievable covering element which can be wrapped around an elongated body, so that the opposite edges of the wrapping element are in a substantially abutting position be brought, and a fastening device, with the help of which the edges of the wrapping element in the one another abutting position can be held, characterized in that the fastening device has at least first and second legs which are arranged to form a first gripping channel, which is used for gripping or clamping one of the two edges of the wrapping element, one of the two Legs between the elongated body and one edge of the wrapping element substantially along the circumference of the body is arranged, and wherein the first and second legs relative to each other from a first position in which the gripping channel is sufficiently open to accommodate one edge of the wrapping element, can be brought into a second position in which the gripping channel is sufficiently closed to the one To grip or clamp the edge of the wrapping element. 030026/0687 ORIGINAL INSPECTED MP 0283 1 2. Wrapping device according to claim 1, characterized in that the fastening device is additionally has at least third and fourth legs which form a second gripping channel which is substantially in opposite direction is arranged, the second gripping channel for gripping or clamping the other Edge of the wrapping element is used, with one of the third and fourth legs between the elongated Body and the other edge of the wrapping element arranged substantially along the circumference of the body is, and wherein the third and fourth legs relative to each other from a first position in which the second Gripping channel is sufficiently open to receive the other edge of the wrapping element, in a second position can be brought, in which the second gripping channel is sufficiently closed to the other edge of the wrapping element to grip or pinch. 3. Device according to claims 1 or 2, characterized in that that the fastening device consists of a material, which occurs in the use Temperatures is essentially dimensionally stable. 4. Device according to claims 1 to 3, characterized in that that at least one of the two legs is provided with retaining means, which grasp or clamp support the wrapping element through the channel. 5. Device according to claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the fastening device is in a substantially distortion-free state when the legs are arranged in one of the two first or second positions, and that holding means are provided around the legs in the other the first or second position. 030026/068 7 MP 0283 3 6. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that the fastening device in the distortion-free state exists when the legs are arranged in the second position. 7. The device according to claim 6, characterized in that at least two gripping channels are provided, and that the Holding means comprise a strip which extends from one leg of the one gripping channel to one leg of the other gripping channel extends, wherein the strip holds the respective legs in such a position that they are pulled against each other and thereby deform the fastening device and thus form the first position. 8. The device according to claim 6, characterized in that the .Haltmittel comprise a strut between the Legs of the channel is arranged, wherein the strut has sufficiently large dimensions to the legs from each other to push away, whereby the fastening device is deformed and the first position is formed. 9. The device according to claim 5, characterized in that the fastening device in a substantially is a distortion-free state when the legs are arranged in the first position. 10. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that the fastening device has a base, two separate, has upwardly extending from the base webs and arms which extend laterally from the webs, substantially parallel to the base, the base and the arms forming the legs of the first and second gripping channels, and that the holding means comprise such means that the webs away from each other and the arms towards the base press, which moves the fastener to the second position. 030026/0687 MP 0283 Ψ 11. The device according to claim 9, characterized in that the fastening device comprises a base, a web extending upwardly from the base, at least one arm extending laterally from the web, substantially parallel to the base, and a plate which extends extends laterally from the web between the or each of the arm (s) and the base, the base and the plate thus forming the legs of at least one channel, and that the holding means comprise such means that press the plate towards the base, whereby the Fastening device is brought into the second position. 12. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that the fastening device has a Η-beam with a first flange, a second flange which is arranged parallel to the first flange, and a web extending substantially in the middle therebetween, the first and the second flange defines at least the first and second legs and includes a leg formed by the first flange and a heat retrievable member attached to the first flange between the first and second flanges, the heat retrievable member when heat is applied can expand in the direction of the second flange and thereby brings the legs into the second position. 13. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that each of the legs of the fastening device is a heat recoverable Having material, wherein the legs are brought into the second position by the heat recovery, and that holding means are provided on at least one of the legs in order to grip or clamp the enveloping element through the channel or channels to support. 030026/0687 ORIGINAL 4NSPECTED MP0283 $ 14. Fastening device for use in a wrapping device according to claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the fastening device has first and second gripping channels to receive the edges of the wrapping elements, the channels being arranged in substantially opposite directions and these through first and second Legs are formed which can be brought relative to one another from a first open position for receiving the edges of the wrapping element into a closed position in order to grip or clamp the edges of the wrapping element, wherein at least one of the legs is provided with holding means within the channel, which support the gripping or clamping of the enveloping element. 15. Fastening device according to claim 14, characterized in that it comprises first and second gripping channels arranged in a substantially opposite direction, each channel being formed by first and second legs, the legs of each channel being open relative to one another Position for receiving the edges of the enveloping element can be brought into a closed position for clamping the edge, and wherein the fastening device is in a substantially distortion-free state when the legs are arranged in one of the first or second positions and the fastening device has retaining means to keep the legs in the other of the first or second positions. 16. Method for enveloping an elongated body, characterized in that one has a heat-recoverable film wrapped around an elongated body so that the edges of the film meet in a substantially contiguous manner Position are located, the edges of the heat retrievable film in the gripping channel or the gripping channels 030026/0687 MP 0283 ί a fastener according to claim 14 or 15 introducing the edges in the abutting Can hold position, the heat-recoverable film is heated at its label for heat er ho development and then the The remaining part of the heat-recoverable film is heated to the Heat recovery to complete the elongated body. 030026/0687 COPY