EP3455124A1

EP3455124A1 - Method for producing a volume element which can be inflated with a gas, in particular a water sport device

Info

Publication number: EP3455124A1
Application number: EP17723337.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Stefan Klare
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-05-10
Filing date: 2017-05-10
Publication date: 2019-03-20
Also published as: DE102016108635B4; US20190143617A1; AU2017264537A1; JP2019514782A; WO2017194600A1; DE102016108635A1; CA3021533A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing a volume element (10) which can be inflated with a gas, having the following steps: - providing at least one first tubular element (12) which comprises at least one first tube (1, 4) that can be inflated with the gas and is made of at least two layers, said layers being arranged one over the other, consisting of an elastic material, and being connected together along at least one first seam (16d, 36); and - providing at least one second tubular element (14, 15) which has at least one second tube (5, 8) that can be inflated with the gas and is made of at least two layers, said layers being arranged one over the other, consisting of an elastic material, and being connected together along at least one second seam (18d, 38); The tubular elements (12, 14) are provided such that the seams (16d, 18d, 36, 38) are arranged on mutually facing sides of the tubular elements (12, 14) and have different curvatures at least in respective length regions (40).

Description

Patent application

Method for producing a gas-inflatable volume element, in particular a water sports device

DESCRIPTION :

The invention relates to a method for producing a gas-inflatable volume element, in particular a water sports device.

Such a volume element in the form of a water sports device can be taken as known from US 2009/0049757 A1. The volume element is referred to there as a sandwich bar, which is inflatable with a gas. For this purpose, the sandwich beam on a core with at least one inner chamber, which is inflatable with the gas. The inner chamber is bounded by a material that is at least substantially limp.

Furthermore, a vacuum bag is provided as at least one outer chamber, which is bounded by a material that is at least substantially limp, referred to as a bag material. The outer chamber is fluidly separated from the inner chamber and surrounds the inner chamber on the outer circumference at least partially. It is provided a vacuum connection, via which the outer chamber is vacuumable. In the outer chamber, a compression element is provided with two film webs, which are arranged in mutual overlap. By vacuuming the outer chamber, this is reduced, so that the film webs are pressed apart. As a result, the film webs are clamped together by friction. To realize a particularly strong Clamping of the film webs, the coefficient of friction between them can be increased, for example by using ve ve be used.

Also FR 2 516 887 discloses a trained as a water sports device volume element as known.

It has been shown that the production of advantageous, but complex geometries or structures of volume elements is not or only very complex. Such complex geometries, in particular variable thickness distributions, have hitherto not been or are not economically feasible and thus can be realized in a suitable manner for mass production. However, such complex geometries are desired and advantageous in order to realize advantageous properties of the volume element when used as or for a water sports device. Usually, there is the problem that the volume element in its inflated with the gas state has excessive wrinkles Such wrinkles Kings nen the visual impression of the volume element, but also its properties, in particular when using the volume element as a water sports device, impaired. Such a preparation of the volume element that the volume element in his inflated state has no or only minor wrinkles in gle ichzeitiger realization of a particularly advantageous, but complex geometry or structure of the volume element, is not yet or just spend hr time consuming and thus costly possible.

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a method for producing a volume element which can be inflated with a gas so that a particularly advantageous structure of the volume element can be realized, wherein the volume element does not have excessive folds in its state inflated with the gas and is particularly time-consuming - and kostengün stig can be produced. This object is achieved by a method with the characteristics of the patent claim 1. Advantageous embodiments with expedient developments of the invention are specified in the remaining claims. The method according to the invention for producing a volume element which can be inflated with a gas, in particular with air, is characterized by a first step, in which at least one first tube element is provided. The first tube element comprises at least one inflatable with the first gas tube, which is formed by at least two superimposed, jew eils formed from a per se limp material and along little least one seam interconnected layers or layers. Furthermore, the first tube may have at least a first free end. The method according to the invention further comprises a second step in which at least one second tube element is provided. The second tubular element has at least one second tube which can be inflated by the gas and which is formed by at least two layers or layers which are arranged one above the other and are each formed from a material which is non-rigid and joined together along at least one second seam.

Furthermore, the second tube may have at least one second free end. As will be explained in more detail below, the tube parts can be provided as components that are initially separate from one another or as components that are already interconnected or, for example, as an assembly that has already been manufactured.

In the context of the method according to the invention, the tube elements are provided in such a way that the seams are arranged on mutually zugewan, respective sides of the tube elements. The seams are thus directly adjacent seams, since preferably no further seam of the volume element is arranged between the seams. In this case, the seams have different curvatures from each other, at least in respective longitudinal areas. With at their words, for example, the first seam, at least in one he most length range, a first curvature, wherein the second seam has a second curvature at least in egg nem second length range. The curvatures are different from each other, preferably the length ranges are directly neigh beard or lie directly opposite each other. The curvatures are different from each other, for example, in terms of their sign and / or in terms of their shape or their loading. In other words, it is conceivable that the curvatures differ from each other only in terms of their sign and otherwise have the same shape or the same course. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the curvatures have the same sign and differ from each other in terms of their course or in terms of their shape. Further, it is conceivable that the curvatures sow ohl differ in terms of their sign as well as in terms of their shape or their course respec- tion from each other.

For example, the tube elements are further provided such that the free ends, in particular first, are spaced apart from one another. In this case, the method comprises, for example, a third step, in which the, in particular first, spaced-apart ends are moved toward one another. In this case, for example, the ends are moved toward one another in such a way that the distance between the ends is reduced, wherein the ends can be moved towards one another in such a way that they are still spaced apart from one another or after touching or overlapping one another. In particular special it can be provided that the tube elements in a state in which the ends are moved toward each other, are connected to each other. With their words, the ends are moved toward each other, for example, whereby a state of the volume element is formed or produced, wherein in this state of the volume element, the tube elements are verben together. As a result, for example, the state in which the ends are moved toward each other, fixed. In particular, it is conceivable for the tube elements e to be connected to one another via their ends, in particular toward one another, whereby, for example, the ends are joined together, for example mechanically. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the tube elements are connected to one another via respective respective partial regions adjoining one another, in particular in the longitudinal direction of extension of the volume element, the free ends.

Experiments with prototypes have shown that you rch the process of the invention is a particularly simple and time-and kos tengünstige production of for example, realized as a water sports V olumenelements realize. In addition, the formation of wrinkles, when the volume element is inflated and is thus in its inflated with the Ga s state, can be avoided or at least kept low, so that both a particularly advantageous visual impression of the volume element s and particularly advantageous properties of the volume element, in particular with respect to the use of the volume element as a water sports device, realize I assen. By using the tube elements, furthermore, a particularly advantageous structure, that is, a particularly advantageous design or construction of the volume element, can be realized.

Under the advantageous structure, for example, to provide that the volume element, in particular in its inflated n state, a particularly advantageous, in particular outer shape and / or a particularly advantageous cross-section, in particular a particularly vorteilha ften cross-sectional profile, wherein the volume element despite the Realization of the advantageous and possibly complex structure by means of the method according to the invention is simple and can therefore be produced in a timely and cost-effective manner. In particular, it is possible to realize an example along at least one extension direction of the volume element varying thickness or thickness distribution of the volume element, whereby a particularly advantageous St structure and - particularly with regard to the use of the volume element than or for a water sports equipment - particularly good properties of Volume element can be re alisiert.

Although the structure of the volume element which can be realized by means of the method according to the invention may possibly be complex, the structure makes it possible to realize particularly advantageous properties of the volume element, and furthermore the volume element is simple, time-consuming and cost-effective despite the use of the complex structure can be produced by the method according to the invention. Furthermore, the formation of excessive wrinkles can be avoided. In addition, it made it light the method, a high stability, in particular a particularly high S teifigkeit to realize the volume element. In an initial state in which the tube elements are not inflated, the tube elements lie on an at least substantially horizontal plane and, for example, the ends are not yet moved toward each other, for example, there is at least one centerline, which is the adjacent seams, in particular the tube elements , symmetrical, in particular special mirror-symmetrical, run each other or trained se in can. In the initial state described above, for example, the respective length regions of the seams initially do not lie on the center line. If the ends or the tube elements are moved towards one another, for example, starting from the described state, then the seams or their length regions come to lie on the center line z, for example, or the seams come to rest in a plane in which the center line runs.

For example, the seams are initially spaced from each other and then, at least in part after the second step, at least partially moved towards each other. In this case, for example, the tubular elements bezi as each respective initially spaced apart portion of Röhrenelem duck moved toward each other, whereby, for example, a state is created in which the tube elements are connected together or which r is fixed by the tube elements, in particular their first voneinan the spaced subareas to be interconnected.

By moving the tube elements, the Teilberei surface, the ends or the seams towards each other and before the tube elements or the volume element is inflated or total, the volume element, for example, an at least substantially three-dimensional shape, which, for example, the shape of a kayak or similar to a can. This is the case, for example, in that the volume element has a curvature on at least one side similar to the curvature of a kayak or a canoe at the tip thereof, as the roughly spaced seams or portions are moved towards each other.

If, however, the tube elements or the tubes are inflated with the gas, the shape of a kayak or a vanishes or diminishes Canoes similar shape of the volume element and the Vol umenelement is at least substantially flat or flat on its top and bottom. In other words, by moving the free ends or the subregions and thus the tube elements toward each other and by connecting the tube elements in the described state, in which the free ends or the subregions are moved towards each other, the volume element initially has a curvature which results in the volume element having a shape reminiscent of a kayak or a canoe. If, however, the tube elements or the tubes are inflated, the curvature returns or the curvature disappears, so that the volume element, for example, essentially becomes flat or flat on its top and bottom sides and forms a surface on which a person stands can stand especially well. Due to the method according to the invention, however, it does not occur in the inflation of the tube elements or the tube to the excessive formation of wrinkles, which can be represented by the use of the tubes bes onders high stability.

The method according to the invention is based on the following findings: The starting point for the development and construction of a volume element formed, for example, as a surfboard, air mattress or stand up paddleboard are the above-described, inherently non-rigid, formally unstable, but preferably airtight layers, which respectively, in particular when they lie on one another and on an at least substantially horizontal plane or a tabletop, have an at least substantially planar and two-dimensional shape. These layers are overlaid to form the R ears and bonded together along the respective seams. Even in such an interconnected and arranged on each other, but not yet inflated state of the layers, the Röhrenel ementse and thus the volume element total at least in Wesentli chen two-dimensional extent or shape, since the volume element ei ne particularly large width and length, however has a particularly small thickness. As a result of the inflation of the tube elements or the tubes, however, the at least essentially two-dimensional tube elements initially become at least one of the tube elements Substantially three-dimensional shape is transferred, since you inflate the thickness of the tube element is significantly increased.

In the deflated state, the layers are at least stinde in the region of the respective tubes. When inflating the Röhrenele elements and thus the tubes, for example, the gas formed as air gas is introduced into the respective tubes, so that the layers in the tubes stand out from each other. It has been found that the tubes or tube elements change greatly when they are inflated, that is to say when they are transferred from the at least essentially two-dimensional state into the at least essentially three-dimensional state, so that when they are inflated such they are heard having volume elements, which are formed, for example, as inflatable Bares surfboard or Stand Up paddleboard, comes to the emergence of Fa Iten. The reason for the formation of these wrinkles is that the construction or design of the seams usually takes place in a two-dimensional state and does not take into account the three-dimensional state, that is the inflated state or the transition from the two-dimensional state to the three-dimensional state. However, this is the case in the method according to the invention and thus in volume produced by the method according to the invention. In other words, in the context of the method according to the invention, the subsequent, three-dimensional state or the transition from the two-dimensional state into the three-dimensional state is already taken into account in the design or construction of the seams in the two-dimensional state - ideally considered. In other words, the seams in the context of the method according to the invention in the two-dimensional Z ustand already adapted to the three-dimensional state, that is to the inflated state of the volume element, so that the seams are made in the deflated and thus two-dimensional state of the volume element such that the course or the curvature of the seams does not lead to wrinkles in the inflated and thus three-dimensional state of the volume element, and that the volume element when inflated, that is, when transferred from the two-dimensional state to the three-dimensional state, attaches to a kayak or a kayak Kanu reminding shape loses and thus on the upper and lower side at least substantially flat or flat, in particular bezü equal to a plane tangent to the tubes. Furthermore, the method according to the invention enables the realization of a particularly high rigidity and thus stability of the volume element in its inflated state, so that the volume element in its inflated state can be used particularly well, for example as a water sports device. In its deflated or non-inflated state, since the tube elements are formed from the pliable material itself, the volume element may be particularly well folded and / or rolled together so that the space requirement of the volume element in its deflated state is particularly low can be kept. In other words, the volume element in its deflated and rolled or folded state has only a small pack size, so that the volume element can be stowed and transported in a particularly simple and space-saving manner.

To realize particularly advantageous properties of the volume element, it is preferably provided that the material, which in itself is flexible, is at least substantially inelastic. This means that while the pliable material is limp in itself, it does not expand at least essentially as a result of the inflation, that is, its length does not increase in length. As a result, a very high Robusthei t and stability can be created. The limp material which is preferably impermeable to air is, for example, a fiber-reinforced plastic, in particular a fiber-reinforced elastomer such as Hypalon. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the material is designed as a PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or PU (polyurethane) coated polyester fabric

For example, the volume element can already be used as a water sports device. It has proven to be advantageous, however, if the volume element is used as the core for a volume device, in particular for a water sports device or for a waterpo rt device. In this case, the volume element is provided, for example, with egg ner envelope, at least partially, in particular at least predominantly envelops the volume element. In this case, the envelope is, for example, made of a slippery material and preferably airtight and / or inelastic material. The tubes form, for example, respective first chambers, which can be inflated by the aforementioned gas being introduced into the first chambers (tube n), in particular by blowing. The volume element preferably has at least one first connection via which the gas can be introduced or introduced into the tubes (first chambers).

On at least one side facing away from the first chambers, the volume element (core) delimits, for example, at least partially a second chamber, which is partially bounded by the volume element and partly by the sleeve. The second chamber is thus arranged between the volume element and the casing, which is also referred to as a casing. To realize a particularly high rigidity, granular matter is preferably arranged in the second chamber. Furthermore, the second chamber evakuierba r. For this purpose, the volume device has at least one second connection via which the second chamber can be evacuated. This is to be understood as meaning that a gas initially taken up in the second chamber, for example air, can be removed at least partially, in particular at least predominantly, from the second chamber. As a result, the shell is sucked against the volume element, whereby the granular matter arranged in the second chamber is pressed between the volume element and the shell. This leads to a very high rigidity of the volume device or of a water sports device formed by the volume device.

The voluminous element produced by the method according to the invention has a particularly advantageous usability since it can be folded together in the deflated state, in particular folded up and / or rolled up, and thus has a small space requirement, that is to say a small pack size. Furthermore, the volume element is very light in weight and, as a result, is very easy to transport. On the other hand, the volume element has a very high in its inflated state high rigidity, especially against compressive loads on, which is particularly advantageous for use as a water sports equipment. The following and previous features, advantages and embodiments apply without further ado also for the volume element as the core comprehensive Volumenvorrichtu ng.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the tube elements are provided such that the seams are spaced apart from each other over their respective complete extent. It has been found that this makes it possible to realize a particularly simple and therefore time and cost-effective production. Furthermore, the seams can be made particularly advantageous in terms of their curvature, so that the volume element in its inflated asenen state has a particularly advantageous shape and stability, without causing the excessive formation of wrinkles. As already indicated, it is possible that the Rö hrenelemente be provided as contiguous or interconnected dene components and thus, for example, as a structural unit. For this purpose, for example, at least one tube layer common to the first layer of the pliable material and a tube elements common second layer of the pliable material is provided, the layers are arranged on each other and connected to each other along the seams. This means that both the first tube and the second tube are partially formed from the example, one-piece first layer and partly from the example einstüc kigen and arranged on or below the first layer second layer.

To realize a particularly time and kostengü nstigen production, it has, however, been found to be advantageous if the Röhrenelem duck are provided as separately formed from each other tube parts. Since the tube parts can be assembled, for example, and, in particular au f the manner described above, connected to each other. In the ready position of the tube elements as the tube parts, for example, it is provided that the first tube is formed of a first layer of flexible material and a second layer of flexible material, the first layer being arranged on the second layer and connected to the first layer second layer, at least along the first seam, is ve rbunden. Further, the second one Tube formed for example from a third layer of bie fleshed material and a fourth layer of pliable material, the third layer disposed on the fourth layer and, at least along the second seam, connected to the fourth layer and wherein the first layer separately from the second, third and fourth layers, the second layer separate from the first, third and fourth layers, the third layer separate from the first, second and fourth layers and the fourth layer separately from the first, second and third layers is.

Another embodiment is characterized in that the ends are moved towards each other so that the ends be stirring. In this way, the tube elements, in particular over the touching the ends, are particularly advantageous interconnected, wherein the module element can be produced with a particularly low material requirements and thus kosteng ünstig. In a further embodiment of the invention, it is vorg esehen that the ends are moved towards each other by a respective end of the comprehensive range of the respective tubular member umgekl umged a folding axis. As a result, the ends can move toward one another in a particularly simple manner and, for example-as described above-can come to rest on the central axis on the plane. In addition, the volume element as a whole can be handled very easily.

It has proven to be particularly advantageous if the respective layer has fibers or is made of fibers. Insbeso ndere the situation is designed as a tissue. In this case, the tube elements and thus the layers are preferably provided such that the fibers of the layers with the longitudinal direction of the volume element in total include an angle which encloses in a range of incli edically 25 ° to 65 ° inclusive, in particular including 35 ° to i 55 °, lies. In other words, the respective pliable material is so challenged and arranged that the fibers of the pliable material are arranged at an angle of 45 ° + -20 ° to the longitudinal direction. By ei ne such alignment of the fibers, a particularly advantageous Torsionssteifigkei t be realized. In addition, can The formation of wrinkles are particularly well prevented, since the material can stretch in appropriate directions.

In other words, can be realized by this Faserausr ichtung an advantageous formability. This is advantageous for the so-called rocker of, for example, a surfboard designed for a surfboard to be used as a volume element. Under the rocker e e bend, a curvature or a bend of the volume element, for example, on the top, to understand, the rocker can be made particularly advantageous by the described fiber orientation. First, the volume element, especially in the context of its production, flat. By means of the described fiber orientation or arrangement, it is particularly easy for me to bring the volume element into the bend, that is to bring it into the rocker or force it. This means that a particularly advantageous formability of the volume element can be realized by the fiber orientation.

A further embodiment is characterized in that the tubes and thus the tube elements, for example via the previously mentioned ge, initially spaced apart portions, in particular over the z unächst free ends, fluidly and / or mechanically connected to each other. By mechanical joining is meant that the tube elements or the ends are fixed to each other. By fluidic bonding is meant that gas can flow from one of the tubes into the other tube, or vice versa. By mechanically and / or fluidically connecting the tube elements, in particular via the ends, wherein, for example, the ends are mechanically and / or fluidically connected to one another, a particularly advantageous stability of the volume element, in particular in its inflated state, can be realized.

Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the tube elements to be connected to one another via respective partial regions adjoining the ends, wherein the ends are not necessarily connected to one another. As a result, it is also possible to realize the in the deflated state v orteilhaft and ending in a canoe or kayak shape, which then during inflation of the Volume element goes back, however, can be represented by the Vbinden the ends of a particularly advantageous stability n.

It has proven to be particularly advantageous if the subareas or the tube elements, in particular via the ends, are connected to one another by means of at least one adhesive connection. In the middle of such an adhesive bond, a weight and cost-effective but at the same time particularly strong connection can be achieved. In a further embodiment of the invention, the respective layers along the respective seam by gluing and / or welding and / or sewing are connected to each other. In other words, the seam does not necessarily mean that the layers are sewn together by means of a thread. In the context of the invention, the term suture basically means an at least substantially line-shaped connection point or an at least substantially line-shaped connection region at which or in which the layers are connected to one another. If the layers are joined together, for example, along the seam by gluing, the respective seam is designed as an adhesive seam. If the layers are joined together, for example, along the seam by welding, the seam is, for example, designed as a welded seam. If the layers are joined together, for example, along the respective seam by means of at least one thread or by means of at least one yarn, then the respective seam is formed, for example, as a sewing seam. Finally, it has proved to be particularly advantageous if the volume element is manufactured as a water sports device, in particular as a surfboard, paddle board, standing paddle board or air mattress or is used for such a water sport device, in particular as a core. Under a Standpaddelbrett i st a previously mentioned Stand Up Paddleboard to understand that at least one person can ask. Using a paddle, the person standing on the volume element can move on the water.

Further advantages, features and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred Ausführungsb examples and with reference to Drawing. The above genan in the description nant features and feature combinations and the below in the description of the figures and / or in the figures alone shown features and feature combinations are not only in the particular combination so change also in other combinations or alone used, oh ne den To leave frame of the invention.

The drawing shows in: Fig. 1 is a schematic plan view of a trained as Wasse rsportgerät

Volume element in its inflated state; a schematic plan view of Röhreneleme nets of the volume element, wherein Figure 2 is the illustration of a first embodiment of a method for producing the volume element; a schematic plan view of Röhreneleme nte, wherein Figure 3 is the illustration of a second embodiment for producing the volume element;

Fig. 4 is a schematic plan view of Röhreneleme nte, wherein Fig. 4 of

Illustrating a third embodiment of the method for producing the volume element is used;

Fig. 5 is a schematic plan view of Röhreneleme nte, wherein Fig. 5 of

Illustrating a fourth embodiment of the method for producing the volume element is used; Fig. 6 is a schematic plan view of Röhreneleme nte, wherein Fig. 6 of the

Illustrating a fifth embodiment of the method for producing the volume element is used; Fig. 7 is a schematic plan view of Röhreneleme nte, wherein Fig. 7 of

Illustrating a sixth embodiment of the method for producing the volume element is used; Fig. 8 is a schematic plan view of Röhreneleme nte, wherein Fig. 8 of

Illustrating a seventh embodiment of the method for producing the volume element is used; and

Fig. 9 is a schematic plan view of Röhreneleme nte, wherein Fig. 9 of the

Illustrating an eighth embodiment of the method for

Making the volume element is used.

In the figures, the same or functionally identical E elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

FIG. 1 shows, in a schematic plan view, a volume element designated as a whole by 10, an inflated state of the volume element 10 being illustrated in FIG. The volume element 10 is dabe i formed as a water sports device, wherein the volume element 10 is designed as Surfbr ett, paddle board or Stehpaddelbrett. The paddle board is also referred to as a paddleboard, the standing paddle board is also referred to as Stan dup paddle board (SUP). Furthermore, it is conceivable that the volume element 10 is used for such a water volume apparatus representing a volume device. In this case, the volume element 10 is, for example, a core, which is at least partially, in particular at least predominantly, enveloped by a shell.

The volume element 10 has a plurality of tubes n 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, which are aufbia sbar with a gas, in particular with air sbar. This means that for inflating the volume element 10 said gas is introduced into the tubes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, in particular injected. By inflating the tubes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, the volume element 10 is transferred from its deflated state or uninflated state to its inflated state. The tubes 1, 2, 3 and 4 are components of a first tube member 12, wherein the tubes 5, 6, 7, 8 are components of a second tube elements 14 of the volume element 10. This means that the first tube element 12 of the volume element 10 comprises the tubes 1, 2, 3 and 4, wherein the tube element 14 of the volume element 10 comprises the tubes 5, 6, 7 and 8. In the context of a method for producing the volume element 10, for example, at a first step of the method, the first tube element 12 is provided, which comprises the tubes 1, 2, 3 and 4 which can be inflated with the gas. In this case, the tube 1 is, for example, a so-called first tube of the volume element 10 or of the tubular element 12. In a second step of the method, for example, the second tube element 14 is provided, which comprises the gas-inflatable n tubes 5, 6, 7 and 8 includes. In this case, the tube 5, for example, a second Rö hre of the tube member 14th

If the tube elements 12 and 14 are provided, for example, as separate or separately formed tube parts, then the tube element 14 comprises, for example, at least one first layer and at least one second layer formed separately from the first layer, wherein the respective layer of a limp in itself Made of hot moldable material. Preferably, the material is limp but luftundu rchlässig and inelastic, that is non-elastic. Thus, the material expands pielsweise when inflating not or only very slightly. Further, in the ready position of the tube members 12 and 14 as separate tube members, the tube member 14 includes, for example, a third layer formed separately from the first layer and separately from the second layer, and a fourth layer separately from the first, second, and third layers , Also, the third and fourth layers are each made of a sluggish si ch material, the previous and following statements on the most he position can be transferred to the other layers and vice versa. The j eweilige situation or the respective material has, for example, fibers or is formed at least from fibers, wherein the respective position relationship between the respective material may be formed as a tissue.

For producing the tubular element 12, the first layer is arranged on the second layer and connected to the second layer along respective seams 16a-d to produce the tubes 1, 2, 3 and 4. The respective Nah t 16a-d is an at least in Substantially linear connection point or an at least substantially line-shaped connection region at which or in which the first layer is connected to the second layer, whereby the tubes 1, 2, 3 and 4 are formed. In this case, it can be seen from FIG. 1 that the respective seam 16a-d has a curved course and thus a curvature, at least in a respective length range.

To produce the tubular element 14 example, the third layer is disposed on the fourth layer and connected along respective Näht e 18a-d with the fourth layer. The following and previous comments on the respective seam 16a-d are transferable to the respective seam 18a-d and vice versa. The respective layers are, for example, glued together along the respective seam 16a-d or 18a-d and / or welded together and / or sewn together and / or joined together in some other way.

The tube elements 12 and 14 are, for example, at least mechanically connected to each other, so that the tube elements 12 and 14 are fixed to each other anei. For example, first the first tube element 12 is produced by connecting the first layer to the second layer to form the tubes 1, 2, 3 and 4. Further, for example, the second tube element 14 is first prepared by connecting the third layer to the fourth layer and forming the tubes 5, 6, 7, and 8, respectively. The tube elements 12 and 14, which have the respective tubes 1, 2, 3 and 4 or 5, 6, 7 and 8, are thus initially separate from one another, which are connected to each other, for example at least mechanically. For this purpose, for example, the first tube 1 is at least mechanically connected to the second tube 5. For this purpose, for example at least respective, initially spaced apart portions of the tube elements 12 and 14 are moved towards each other and then, in particular mechani sch, connected to each other. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the tubes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are at least me chanically connected to each other via their respective, initially free ends. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the tubes 1 and 5 are at least mechanically connected to each other via their respective, initially free ends and / or that the tubes 1 and 5 via respective ige, to the respective free End of the tubes 1 and 5 subsequent sections are at least mechanically interconnected. In particular, it may be provided that the respective tubes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 are in particular fluidically connected to one another via their respective first free ends, so that, for example, the aforementioned gas between the tubes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 (1-8) can flow over. Fig. 1 shows the volume element 10 in its inflated state in which the volume element 10 is formed on its recognizable in Fig. 1 top 20 and on its in Fig. Not recognizable, the top 20 remote from the bottom n at least substantially flat or flat , Furthermore, the volume element 10 in its inflated state k has a wrinkle or only a very small number of minor wrinkles. This can be achieved by a special method for producing the volume element 10, wherein this method or several embodiments of the method is or will be explained below.

As an alternative to providing the tube elements 12 and 14 as separate tube parts, it is possible to provide the tube elements 12 and 14 as interconnected tube elements or as a coherent structural unit. In this case, the first layer is formed integrally with the third layer, so that the first layer and the third layer form, for example, a fifth layer. Further, the second layer is formed integrally with the fourth layer, S or the second and the fourth layer form a one-piece and separately formed from the fifth layer a, sixth position. To manufacture the tubular elements 12 and 14, the fifth layer is placed on the sixth layer and connected along the seams 16a-d and 18a-d to the sixth layer, thereby forming the tubes 1-8.

Fig. 1 shows the volume element 10, for example, in an idealized or simplified representation, in which he the tubes 1 and 5, in particular the tube elements 12 and 14, based on an imaginary center axis 22 to each other symmetrically, in particular mirror symmetry etrical formed. The central axis 22 is thus an axis of symmetry which lies in a plane of symmetry which runs perpendicular to the image plane of FIG. Furthermore, the volume element 10 has a longitudinal extension direction in FIG. 1, which is characterized by a double arrow 24, since the volume element 10 extends along the longitudinal axis Longitudinal extension direction extending length t, which is greater than a width extending along a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension direction extending second direction. This second direction is shown in FIG. 1 is illustrated by a double arrow 26.

Based on FIG. 2, a first embodiment of the method for producing the volume element 10 is illustrated below. From Fig. 2 it can be seen that the tube elements 12 and 14 are provided such that the respective tubes 1, 2, 3 and 4 (1-4) each have a first free end 28 and the tubes 5, 6, 7 and 8 (5-8) each having a second free end 30, wherein the free ends 28 and 30 are initially spaced from each other. In the first embodiment, between the free ends 28 and 30 of the tubes 1 and 5 is an e rster distance d1, between the free ends 28 and 30 of the tubes 2 and 6, a second distance d2, between the free ends 28 and 30 of the Tubes 3 and 7, a third he distance d3 and provided between the free ends 28 and 30 of the tubes 4 and 8, a fourth distance d4. The distance d1 is smaller than the distance d2, welc forth is smaller than the distance d3, which in turn is smaller than the distance d4. In other words: dKd2 <d3 <d4. Further, in the first embodiment, the tube elements 12 and 14 are provided such that the tubes 1-4 each have a third free end 32 and the tubes 5-8 each have a fourth free end 34, with the free ends 32 and 34 first spaced apart from each other. Thus exist between the free ends 32 and 34 of the tubes 1 and 5, a distance D1, between the free ends 32 and 34 of the tubes 2 and 6, a distance D2, between the free ends 32 and 34 of the tubes 3 and 7 a Distance D3 and between the free ends n 32 and 34 of the tubes 4 and 8, a fourth distance D4. The following applies: D1 <D2 <D3 <D4. Di it means that the respective distance between the respective free ends 28 and 30 or 32 and 34 increases in the longitudinal direction of the volume element 10 to the outside. The tube elements 12 and 14 are thus provided in such a way that at least respective, the respective ends 28 and 30 relationship sweise 32 and 34 comprising portions of the tube elements 12 and 14 are initially spaced from each other. This provision of the tube elements 12 and 14, for example, in the provision of the tube elements 12 and 14 as a construction unit realized such that between the tube elements 12 and 14 material, in particular at least substantially triangular or wedge-shaped, separated out, in particular cut out. In other words, the described provision of the tube elements 12 and 14, for example, by corre sponding processing, in particular trimming, the tubular elements 12 and 14, in particular the respective layers, realized. From Fig. 2 it is further seen that the respective n layers are also interconnected along respective seams 36 and 38, wherein the ers te tube 1 at least partially through the seam 36, in particular through the seams 36 and 16 a, and the tube 5 at least partially formed by the seam 38, in particular by the seams 38 and 18a. In the first embodiment, the seam 36 is a first seam, with the seam 38 being a second seam.

The seams 36 and 38 are in Fig. 1 not relationship, as exactly a seam N recognizable, since the seams 36 and 38 coincide in the finished manufactured and inflated state of the volume element 10 and are in particular on the central axis 22. In an illustrated in Fig. 2 Zus tand, in which the volume element 10 is not ready made and not inflated, that is uninflated, the seams 36 and 38 are not completely together or are not completely on the Mi ttelachse 22. In other words As part of the method, the tube elements 12 and 14 are provided, as can be seen in FIG. 2, such that the free ends 28 and 30 and the ends 32 and 34 are spaced apart from each other and the seams 36 and 38 are facing each other on the sides Tube elements 12 and 14 ang eordnet. The seams 36 and 38 are thus adjacent seams, in particular u nmittelbar or directly adjacent seams, as between the seams 36 and 38, no further seams of the volume element 10 are arranged. In this case, the di s seams 36 and 38, at least in respective length regions 40, which in the present case di rectly adjacent and directly opposite each other, differ from each other! I curvatures. From Fig. 2 it can be seen that the seams 36 and 38 in the jewe iligen length range 40 ufweisen the same shape or the same course, but differ the curvatures of the seams 36 and 38 in the respective length range 40 in terms of their sign, since the seam 36 with respect to the image plane of Fig. 2 to the left of the central axis 22 and the seam 38 to the right of the central axis 22 curves away. This state illustrated in FIG. 2 has the volume element 10, for example, when the volume element 10 lies on a table top or on an at least substantially horizontal plane and is deflated.

The first free and spaced T eilbereiche, in this case the ends 28 and 30 and 32 and 34 are da nn moved towards each other, whereby, for example, the volume element 10 assumes a connection state or comes into a connection state in which the tube elements 12 and 14, in particular on their fr eien ends 28 and 30 and 32 and 34 and / or about in Län gserstreckungsrichtung to the free ends 28 and 30 or 32 and 34 to closing portions, at least mechanically connected to each other. By this joining of the tube members 12 and 14, the above-mentioned binding state in which the portions, in particular, ends 28 and 30, respectively, 32 and 34 are moved toward each other, is fixed. In the fixed connection state, the initially deflated volume element 10 has, for example, a shape resembling a shape of a kayak or a canoe, which is reminiscent of the shape of a kayak or canoe. This is for example the case, since the volume element 10 in its deflated state on the upper side 20 and / or on the underside has a curvature similar to the curvature of a kayak or a canoe at its tip. If, however, the volume element 10 is ever inflated so that the previously described curvature of the volume element 10 is at least reduced or eliminated. This bed eutet that by inflating the volume element 10 and the tubes 1-8, the shape that is reminiscent of a kayak or canoe, goes back, so that the volume Lement 10 in its inflated state on the top 20 and on the bottom at least substantially flat or flat. Furthermore, the seams 36 and 38 come to lie on the central axis 22 and fall together ammen. In the first embodiment, the tube elements 12 and 14 are provided such that, for example, the seams 36 and 38 do not contact each other in their length regions 40 and are spaced apart in the length regions 40, with the seams 36 and 38 in respective ones Longitudinal direction of the volume element 10 to the respective length ranges 40 subsequent second length ranges 42 touch.

If the volume element 10 is used, for example, as the core of a volume device and - as indicated above - at least partially, in particular at least predominantly, enveloped and thus encased by an envelope, which is also referred to as a sheathing, an example is a rocker of the Volume element 10 and the Volumenvorri rect made total. The shell forms, for example, an outer skin of the volume device. The rocker is understood to mean a curvature, bending or bending which has the volume element 10 or the volume pre-treatment, in particular after the rocker has been produced, at least in the inflated state.

For example, in the context of the production of the volume device, the volume element 10 is initially flat, in particular in the inflated state. For example, by means of a shape of the rocker h is established. For example, the envelope is glued to the core (volume element 10), wherein the envelope is glued, for example, on the core. It has proven to be particularly advantageous when the tube elements 12 and 14 and thus the layers are provided de rart that the fibers of the layers with the Längsserstreckungsricht ung the volume element 10 include an angle which in a range of 25 ° to including 65 °, in particular from 35 ° to 55 ° inclusive inclusive. In other words, the respective pliable Mate rial is aligned and arranged such that the fibers of the pliable Mate rials are arranged at an angle of 45 ° + - 20 ° to the longitudinal direction. By such an orientation of the fibers, a particularly advantageous torsional stiffness can be realized. In addition, the generation of wrinkles can be prevented particularly g ut, since the material can stretch in corresponding directions. In addition, can be realized by this fiber orientation a particularly advantageous formability, so that the rocker can be made particularly well. In order to ersion example, a particularly high stiffness, in particular bending stiffness, the volume device to reali, it is preferably provided that the shell is formed, for example, from a limp in itself and preferably airtight and / or inelastic Mat erial. The tubes 1 - 8 form, for example, respective first chambers, which can be inflated by the aforementioned gas in the first chambers (tubes 1-8) introduced, in particular blown, is. Preferably, the volume element 10 has at least one first connection via which the gas can be introduced or introduced into the tubes 1 -8 (first chambers).

On at least one side facing away from the first chambers, the volume element 10 (core) delimits, for example, at least partially a second chamber, which is partially bounded by the volume element 110 and partially by the casing. The second chamber is thus arranged between the volume element 10 and the casing, which is also referred to as casing. To realize a particularly high rigidity, granular matter is preferably arranged in the second chamber. Furthermore, the second chamber evakuierba r. For this purpose, the volume device has at least one second connection via which the second chamber can be evacuated. This is to be understood as meaning that a gas initially taken up in the second chamber, for example air, can be removed at least partially, in particular at least predominantly, from the second chamber. Thereby, the shell is sucked against the volume element 10, whereby the arranged in the second chamber granular matter between the volume element 10 and the envelope is pressed. This leads to a very high rigidity of the volume device or of a water sports device formed by the volume device.

Fig. 3 shows a second embodiment of the procedural rule, in which the tube elements 12 and 14 are provided, for example, as Baueinh eit, wherein the respective tube 1 -8 each have exactly one free s end 32 and 34 respectively. In the first and second embodiments exactly two tube elements 12 and 14 are provided, the number of tubes 1-8 being greater than the number of tube elements 12 and 14. 4 shows a third embodiment of the method in which three tube elements 12, 14 and 15 are provided. In the third embodiment, the tube member 14 and its tubes 1 and 5 have no free ends, however, the tube member 14, the Rö listen 6, 7 and 8 with the free ends 30 and 34, respectively. In the third embodiment, a first of the seams 16a of the tubular member 12 having the different curvatures is the seam 16a of the tubular member 12. The second of the directly adjacent seams is the seam 38 of the tubular member 14 disposed between the tubular members 12 and 15 , The tubes 1 and 5 of Röhreneleme nts 14 are formed by seams 44 and 46 and by the seam 38, wherein furthermore the seams 18 a and 46 are immediately adjacent seams, which have different curvatures from each other at least in respec gene lengths. In the third embodiment, the first free ends 28 and 30 or 32 and 34 of the tube elements 12, 14 and 15 are moved towards each other.

Fig. 5 shows a fourth embodiment of the procedural rens, wherein the fourth embodiment with respect to the arrangement and in particular special orientation of the tube elements 12 and 14 to each other from the previously described embodiments b. Fig. 6 shows a fifth embodiment of the method wherein the tube members 12 and 14 are provided such that the immediately adjacent sutures 36 and 38 are spaced apart from each other over their respective full extent. Fig. 7 shows a sec tion hste embodiment, in which the immediately adjacent seams are the seams 16 d and d 18 d. However, as described with respect to the first embodiment, the tubular members 12 and 14 are connected to each other via the sides on which the seams 36 and 38 are arranged. Further, Fig. 8 shows a seventh embodiment of the method in which the immediately adjacent seams 36 and 38 are provided spaced apart from each other over their respective full extent. Sehl ießlich Fig. 9 shows an eighth embodiment of the method in which the immovable adjacent seams are the seams 36 and 18 d, wherein - as already described for the first and sixth embodiments - the tube elements 12 and 14 via the seams 36 and 38 and are connected to each other via the sides on which the seams 36 and 38 are arranged.

Claims

CLAIMS:

A method of manufacturing a gas inflatable volume element (10) comprising the steps of:

Providing at least one first tube element (12) which comprises at least one gas-inflatable first tube (1, 4) formed by at least two superimposed, formed from a non-rigid material and along at least a first seam (16d, 36 ) is formed interconnected layers; and

Providing at least one second tubular element (14, 15) which has at least one second tube (5, 8) inflatable with the gas, which is formed by at least two superposed, formed from a material limp in itself and along at least one second seam (18d , 38) interconnected layers, wherein the tubular members (12, 14) are provided such that the seams (16d, 18d, 36, 38) on facing sides of the tubular members (12, 14) are at least in respective ones Length regions (40) have different curvatures from each other.

2. The method according to claim 1,

wherein the tubular members (12, 14, 15) are provided such that the seams (16d, 18d, 36, 38) are spaced apart from each other over their respective full extent.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2,

wherein the tube elements (12, 14, 15) are provided as separately formed tube parts. 4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims e,

the tubes (1,

4, 5, 8) have respective free ends (28, 30, 32, 34), the tube elements (12, 14, 15) being provided such that the free ends (28, 30, 32, 34) are spaced apart from each other are, and wherein the ends (28, 30, 32, 34) are moved towards each other, in particular such that the ends (28, 30, 32, 34) touch.

5. The method according to claim 4.

wherein the ends (28, 30, 32, 34) are moved toward each other by a partial region of the respective tubular element (12, 14, 15) encompassing the respective ends (28, 30, 32, 34) is folded around a folding axis.

6. The method according to claim 4 or 5,

wherein the tubes (1, 4, 5, 8) are fluidically and / or mechanically interconnected via the ends (28, 30, 32, 34).

7. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 6,

wherein the tubes (1, 4, 5, 8) via the ends (28, 30, 32, 34) are interconnected by means of at least one adhesive connection.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims e,

wherein the layers are formed of fibers, and wherein the tubular members (12, 14, 15) are provided such that the fibers enclose an angle with the longitudinal extension direction (24) of the volume member (10) ranging from 25 degrees to 25 degrees including 65 degrees, in particular from 35 degrees to and including 55 degrees.

Method according to one of the preceding claims,

wherein the respective layers are joined together along the respective seam (16d, 18d, 36, 38) by gluing and / or welding and / or sewing.

Method according to one of the preceding claims,

wherein the volume element (10) is used as a water sports device, in particular as a surfboard, paddle board, standing paddle board or air mattress, manufactured or used for a water sports device, in particular as a surfboard, paddle board, Stehpaddelbrett or air mattress.