Abstract: A segmented seal for a large annular space formed from an annular array of overlapping seal segments having a plurality of said seal segments provided with a bulbous distal end with a hole in the bulbous portion, the hole in adjacent bulbous portions registering to form a continuous opening which receives a tubular member that positively interlocks the ends of the seal segments so that they bridge openings in an outer cylindrical member.

Abstract: An improved peripheral closure joint for sealing spherical shell segments to a supporting structure therefor is provided which comprises a generally frustoconical member having an annular groove on the smaller circumference thereof for receiving the peripheral edge of the shell segment and means on the outer periphery thereof for engaging the supporting structure without slippage, said means including a plurality of annular corrugations on the peripheral edge of said frustoconical member and mating corrugations on a supporting surface of said structure to allow said member limited rolling engagement with said surface as said member flexes under an applied load. The frustoconical member is preferably configured to transmit the applied load substantially perpendicular to said surface, and tangent to the spherical shell.