Abstract: A multi-use watercraft wherein one or more bays are formed in the aft portion thereof for respectively docking one or more personal watercraft (PWC). The PWCs are connected to provide propulsion for the multi-use watercraft when so docked in the bay. The multi-use watercraft and the PWCs may be separated and used independently while on the water. The PWCs may also be docked in the bay of the multi-use watercraft while on the water. A scoop proximal to the jet pump nozzle of each PWC is provided to enable the multi-use watercraft to go in the reverse direction. Also provided is the ability to sail the multi-use watercraft. Mast, rudders and dagger board may be installed while on the water thus allowing the multi-use watercraft to use wind for propulsion. The multi-use watercraft may be converted to sailing mode with or without the PWCs being docked. An inboard motor may also power the multi-use watercraft.

Abstract: A composite structure is provided. The structure is based upon a three-dimensional woven fabric structure. The three-dimensional woven fabric has a first fabric layer and a second fabric layer spaced apart from the first fabric layer, with the layers connected by threads which form a portion of the three-dimensional woven fabric structure. The threads define voids in the space between the first and second layers. A first resinous material is coated onto and allowed to penetrate the first layer of the woven fabric structure. Next a second resinous material is coated onto and allowed to penetrate the second layer of the woven fabric structure. The voids are filled with a third resinous material. In order to complete the formation of the composite structure, the resins are fully cured. Using this method it is possible for the resinous materials to be chemically incompatible, yet mechanically attached by the cloth material.

Abstract: A composite structure is provided. The structure is based upon a three-dimensional woven fabric structure. The three-dimensional woven fabric has a first fabric layer and a second fabric layer spaced apart from the first fabric layer, with the layers connected by threads which form a portion of the three-dimensional woven fabric structure. The threads define voids in the space between the first and second layers. A first resinous material is coated onto and allowed to penetrate the first layer of the woven fabric structure. Next a second resinous material is coated onto and allowed to penetrate the second layer of the woven fabric structure. Following the application of the resins, the voids remain substantially empty. In order to complete the formation of the composite structure, the resins are fully cured. Using this method it is possible for the first resinous material and the second resinous material to be chemically incompatible, yet mechanically attached by the cloth material.

Abstract: A fuel tank for aircraft includes a rigid securement for securing the tank to the aircraft, a skin connected to the securement, and a liner inside the skin. The skin includes an elastic fiber and a tensile fiber embedded in a flexible matrix. In one embodiment, the elastic fiber and the tensile fiber are wound in layers within the flexible matrix, and the elastic fiber is wrapped spirally about the tensile fiber. The elastic fiber is preferably an elastomeric fiber such as an elastic, segmented polyurethane fiber. The tensile fiber is preferably an aramid polymer fiber such as an aromatic polycarbonamide fiber. The flexible matrix may be formed of natural rubber or neoprene rubber. When the tank is filled, the elastic fiber lengthens until the tensile fiber resists further stretching. The elastic fiber tends to contract as the tank is emptied, substantially reducing the storage space required by the tank. The tank is nestable when empty, but is nonetheless substantially ready to receive fuel.

Abstract: A method of forming a three-dimensional composite structure. Uncured portions of the composite structure are first assembled between a initially rigid heat-softening inner layer of ABS plastic and a hard outer mold surface. Prior to curing of the composite structure, pressure and heat is applied to the ABS layer to soften the layer. Thereafter, pressure is applied to the side of the ABS layer opposite from the composite structure, thereby to compact the uncured portions of the composite structure against the hard outer mold. Stiffening beams may be incorporated into the composite structure, so as to yield a lightweight, strong composite structure that can be used as a pressure vessel in an aerospace vehicle.

Abstract: A pneumatic tube station with a displaceable tube portion which can be moved parallel to itself out of a continuous delivery tube, and respectively, which can be inserted into the delivery tube, which displaceable tube portion in the position inserted into the delivery tube is connected at both ends with the delivery tube by means of respectively one seal each. In the vicinity of one end of the displaceable tube portion there is provided a slider. The slider closes the displaceable tube portion when the slider is in the inserted condition. The two ends of the delivery tube are connected with each other by means of an air channel. The displaceable tube portion in its position in which it is moved out of the delivery tube, is arranged between a storage hopper and a discharge opening, the hopper being provided with a blocking device.