Abstract: Provided is an article comprising a flexible tube having an inner surface, an outer surface, a first end and a second end, the inner surface at least partially covered with a low friction material. Also provided is an article comprising a cold shrinkable sleeve disposed on a tubular support core in a stretched condition, at least a portion of the cold shrinkable sleeve folded such that at least one portion of the cold shrinkable sleeve overlaps another portion of the cold shrinkable sleeve, wherein a flexible tube having an inner surface, an outer surface, a first end and a second end, the inner surface at least partially covered with a low friction material, is positioned between the overlapping portions of the cold shrinkable sleeve.

Abstract: A method of forming a bladder for use in an occupant sensor includes positioning first and second sheets of polymeric film onto a bed. The method further includes positioning a laser beam generator above the bed. The laser beam generator is provided information to describe a path of movement over the bed and is then caused to move over the bed along the path and apply a laser beam to melt the first and second sheets to form a bond between the sheets. A system for manufacturing an occupant sensor bladder from polymeric material is also provided. The system includes a bed capable of accepting two layers of polymeric material and a laser beam generator directed at the bed. The laser beam generator can move along a path above the bed and simultaneously apply a laser beam to the polymeric material.