Patent ID: 6499770
Filing Date: 2002-12-31
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
A flexible duct adapted for use in a thermodynamic system having first and second components that are moveable with respect to each other, said duct comprising:a first duct section having an intake end, an exhaust end, and a central axis; a duct-intake plane defined by said intake end; a first joint pivotally coupling said intake end to the first component; a second duct section having a first end and a second end; a second joint pivotally coupling said first end to said exhaust end; and a third joint pivotally coupling said second end to the second component; wherein said first joint permits pivotal movement of said first duct section with respect to the first component about a first axis that is generally parallel to said duct-intake plane, wherein said second joint permits pivoting of said first and second sections with respect to each other about a second axis generally parallel to said first axis, wherein said third joint permits said second section to pivot with respect to the second component about a third axis that is generally perpendicular to said first axis, and wherein said duct provides a substantially air-tight conduit for fluid flow between the first component and the second component, even as the first and second components move with respect to each other.