Integrally-reinforced braided tubular structure and method of producing the same
US6510961B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 14, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jan 28, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 14, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29L2031/7156
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of producing a generally tubular, reinforced, structure including an inner layer of braided material having a predefined indentation configuration, the method including the steps of providing a mandrel having a shape and configuration of indentations corresponding to the shape and indentation configuration of the inner layer, providing a plurality of support members in the vicinity of at least some of the indentations on the mandrel, the support members protruding a predetermined distance radially outwardly from the mandrel, depositing the inner layer over the mandrel and the support members, and removing the support members to a position in which the support members do not protrude the surface of the mandrel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.