GB811112A - Improvements in or relating to tubular conduits - Google Patents

Abstract

811,112. Tubular conduits. REBUT, P. June 24, 1955 [June 25, 1954], No. 18299/55. Class 99(2). A conduit comprises a tubular sheath formed of flexible material and has elements which are adapted to be inflated so as to provide when inflated a set of reinforcing members 4 extending longitudinally of the sheath and a separate set of reinforcing members 5 extending circumferentially of the sheath. The sheath may be seamless and formed with loop like guides 2 and annular gussets 3. The sheath may be formed of an airtight woven material or it may be formed of synthetic material. In the latter case the guides and gussets are secured to the remainder of the sheath by means of an adhesive. In a modification each longitudinal reinforcing member is received by a continuous guide in the form of a longitudinal gusset. The guides 2 may be disposed within the sheath while the gussets 3 which receive the reinforcing members 5 are located outside the sheath. Alternatively the guides 2 and gussets 3 can be formed so as to be air-tight. They can then themselves be used as air pockets or chambers which are inflated to provide stiffening means for the sheath. Preferably the sheath is of synthetic material and the guides, gussets or pockets may then be formed by the use of an adhesive. The reinforcing members may be supplied with air through a network of tubes.