Patent ID: 7582345
Filing Date: 2009-09-01
Classification: B32B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A hinge apparatus, comprising: first and second outer layers of a fiber-reinforced composite material of high strength and stiffness; each of said first and second outer layers having a separating joint formed therein along a buckling line; an interlayer of a fiber-reinforced composite material of high strength and stiffness disposed between said first and second outer layers; and a strip of material integrated in and interrupting said interlayer in a region of said buckling line, said strip of material being formed of inflectable fiber-reinforced plastic having a resin matrix throughout an entirety of said strip, and having a width of approximately 15 to 20 mm to either side of said buckling line, said strip of material forming a hinge configured to inflect along said separating joints when the hinge apparatus is actuated; said first and second outer layers, said interlayer, and said strip of material being transparent to x-rays.