Patent ID: 6581334
Filing Date: 2003-06-24
Classification: A62B,B64D,F16L,Y10S

Abstract:
A reinforced T-junction between a first pressurized flexible tubular member having an arcuate wall with an opening therein, said arcuate wall defining a radially inward and a radially outward direction, and a second pressurized flexible tubular member extending generally radially outward from said first pressurized flexible tubular member, said second pressurized flexible tubular member having a first end, a second end, and a side wall defining an inner and an outer surface, said T-junction comprising:a butt joint between said first end of said second pressurized flexible tubular member and said arcuate wall of said first pressurized flexible tubular member, said butt joint formed by abutting said first end of said second inflatable tubular member against said arcuate wall of said first pressurized flexible tubular member such that said first end of said first pressurized flexible tubular member covers said opening; a first reinforcing flange, said first reinforcing flange comprising a flexible member having a flange portion and a radially outwardly extending body portion, said flange portion being bonded to said radially inward surface of said arcuate wall of said first pressurized flexible tubular member, and said outwardly extending body portion being bonded to said inner surface of said second pressurized flexible tubular member; and a second reinforcing flange, said second reinforcing flange comprising a flexible sheet having a front surface, a back surface and an aperture extending through from said front surface to said back surface, said second reinforcing flange being bonded to said radially inward surface of said arcuate wall, such that said aperture in said second reinforcing flange is positioned over and partially obstructs said opening in said arcuate wall.