Abstract: A flexible fuel tank (10) has, from the inside to the outside of the tank: a single-layer or multilayer liner (2) having properties of sealing with respect to the liquid, impermeability to the vapor of said fuel, and dissipation of electrostatic charges. The liner (2) includes an inner face (2a) intended to be in contact with the fuel and an outer face (2b). An intermediate layer (3) is in contact with the outer face (2b) of the liner (2), for example a coating layer; and a textile reinforcing layer (4) is in contact with the intermediate layer (3).

Abstract: A connector joins the core of at least one optical fiber to the core of another fiber in a manner that is functional and leaktight against the external media, including: a cylindrical body, whose inner portion includes an insert provided with longitudinal through-holes or through-conduits; at least one optical linkage device including a cylindrical ferrule, generally made of ceramic, pierced for the passage of the core of the fiber, and a ferrule holder joined to the end of the associated fiber and providing the mechanical linkage between the ferrule and the insert; and an O-ring seal provided between the ferrule holder and the receiving conduit of the insert. The body of the connector and the insert form a monobloc assembly, either realized as a single piece or realized with the aid of two complementary pieces, fixed to each other in a totally leaktight or hermetic fashion.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a lever quick connect and disconnect fitting that provides a secure fit for tank-to-tank connections and prevents any leakage from occurring. The fitting provide two separate, independent locking features that can secure tank sleeves to one another. There is provided male and female components that are coupled together by a lever connect and by a safety ring.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to reinforcement materials for use in reinforcing flexible tank walls, and particularly to hybrid textiles and weaving patterns that have been found particularly useful with such hybrid textiles.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to devices for stabilizing floating structures and systems and methods utilizing such stabilization devices. Some embodiments of the stabilization device include a fabric material having a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The expanded configuration of the fabric material may form a column of the fabric material. The column of fabric material may define an internal volume. The front end of the column of fabric material may be closed, and the back end of the column of fabric material may define an opening for receiving water for filling the internal volume. When filled with water, the stabilization device may improve roll stabilization of a floating structure. The floating structure may be a flotation device of an emergency flotation system, boat, or inflatable raft, for example. The emergency flotation system may be used with aircraft, (e.g., helicopters) to provide stabilization when the aircraft is ditched in water.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a lever quick connect and disconnect fitting that provides a secure fit for tank-to-tank connections and prevents any leakage from occurring. The fitting provide two separate, independent locking features that can secure tank sleeves to one another. There is provided male and female components that are coupled together by a lever connect and by a safety ring.

Abstract: Described are self-tensioning girt assemblies with one or more straps that form loops that extend around opposing sides of an inflatable structure. The one or more strips are configured to apply multi-directional forces such that the girt assembly is self-tensioning. The self-tensioning girt assemblies may comprise at least two sleeves coupled to the inflatable structure and that receive the straps in a way that permits the straps to rotate around the inflatable structure. In some embodiments, the straps are attached to a panel that extends between the straps.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to fuel tanks for aviation, and particularly to construction of rigid tank walls that have been found useful in absorbing energy of a magnitude expected during a crash. In some aspects, the rigid tank wall construction includes particular materials, such as a thermoplastic resin matrix. In some aspects, the rigid tank wall construction includes a particular arrangement of reinforcing fibers, such as a twill weave pattern.

Abstract: Systems for improved access door assemblies. In particular, disclosed are boltless/screwless access door assemblies with a radial sealing mechanism. In some embodiments, the access door assembly includes a shoulder configured to withstand interior stresses and a retaining strip configured to withstand exterior stresses. The access door assembly is also configured to be opened when the retaining strip is released.