Abstract: A flexible housing for use as a cable management system for a submarine mast is capable of flexing in a plane between predetermined limits. It comprises a conduit contained within a flexible outer jacket and formed of a plurality of abutting segments, each having an opening therethrough and forming a passage for containing transmission cables or lines. Each segment has a first pair of butting surfaces at each end on one side of the passage and a second pair of butting surfaces at the other side of the passage which prevent flexing of the housing beyond predetermined limits. The segments are coupled together by a pair of endless ligament loops which pass through channels in the segments and over pulleys at each end of the housing. The segments are of bi-concave and bi-convex complementary configurations arranged alternately along the length of the conduit.

Abstract: An expansion joint assembly for use in a piping system has a central tubular bellows and opposite first and second end bellows secured to respective opposite first and second ends of the central bellows. Outer tubular ends of the respective first and second end bellows are linked to the second and first ends, respectively, of the central bellows via first and second elongate link members. The first link member is pivotally connected to the outer end of the first end bellows at one end and secured to the second end of the central bellows at its opposite end. The second link member is pivotally connected to the outer end of the second end bellows at one end and secured to the first end of the central bellows at its opposite end.

Abstract: A universally articulable supporting sheath comprises an interconnected series of links, each having a convex spherical surface at one end, and a concave spherical surface at its opposite end. The concave and convex surfaces mate with one another to form the sheath. Special links having branch openings may be provided. Various forms of waterproofing seals are provided, including O-rings, axially compressed rings, flexible belts, and ridges on the spherical surfaces. The links can be fitted together by thermal expansion. However, an axially split link is also described, which comprises two parts which snap together. The split parts may be molded as a unit with an integral thin wall hinge. The bending characteristics and bending radius of a sheath can be modified by insertion of spacers between the links at selected locations, or by the insertion of pins into radial holes provided in the links.

Abstract: A universally articulable supporting sheath comprises an interconnected series of links, each having a convex spherical surface at one end, and a concave spherical surface at its opposite end. The concave and convex surfaces mate with one another to form the sheath. Special links having branch openings may be provided. Various forms of waterproofing seals are provided, including O-rings, axially compressed rings, flexible belts, and ridges on the spherical surfaces. The links can be fitted together by thermal expansion. However, an axially split link is also described, which comprises two parts which snap together. The split parts may be molded as a unit with an integral thin wall hinge. The bending characteristics and bending radius of a sheath can be modified by insertion of spacers between the links at selected locations, or by the insertion of pins into radial holes provided in the links.

Abstract: A method of producing a bending device is disclosed. There are provided a plurality of elongated arcuate assemblies each formed by pivotally connecting a row of arcuate members to one another by connecting elements, the arcuate assembly extending in a direction of the widths of the arcuate members. Subsequently, the plurality of arcuate assemblies are connected together in such a manner that ends of corresponding ones of the arcuate members of the arcuate assemblies are fixed together to form the row of joint rings, thereby forming the ring assembly.

Abstract: A bending device for use in an endoscope, a catheter or the like includes a frame of a generally cylindrical shape, a limitation member and an operating wire. The frame has annular portions disposed respectively in planes substantially perpendicular to an axis of the frame, and the annular portions are juxtaposed in an axial direction of the frame. The limitation member is received in an internal space of the frame, and engaging recesses are formed in each of opposite lateral edges of the limitation member and juxtaposed in a longitudinal direction of the limitation member. The annular portions of the frame are engaged in the engaging recesses, so that any adjacent ones of the annular portions are spaced a predetermined distance from each other. The limitation member has a number of arcuate portions bulged generally perpendicularly to the direction of the length of the limitation member, and the arcuate portions are juxtaposed in the longitudinal direction of the limitation member.

Abstract: A composite material includes an elastomer matrix forming a basic component of the material. There is included a cross-linking system of the elastomer matrix and at least one fiber reinforcement including fibers with a maximum length of about 30 mm. The fibers are disposed throughout the elastomer matrix and are generally oriented to extend in a first direction of reinforcement. There is at least one thermosetting resin in the elastomer matrix. The elastomer matrix which includes the cross-linking system, the fiber reinforcement and the thermosetting resin has a first equivalent tensile modulus which is calculated for a hypothetical elongation of 100% in the first direction and a second equivalent tensile modulus which is calculated for an actual or hypothetical elongation of 100% in a second direction which is perpendicular to the first direction. A second equivalent tensile modulus is at least 6 MPa.

Abstract: There is provided a cylindrical link and armor for electrical, electronic, or fiber-optic cables, hoses, conduits and the like. The armor comprises links which can either rigidly or flexibly interlock and can support their own weight.

Abstract: A flexible housing, for use in protecting one or more transmission lines in a pressurized environment comprises a conduit (10) contained within a protective outer jacekt (16). The conduit (10) is constructed of a plurality of conduit segments (18a and 18b), each segment having an opening (28) therethrough, the segments (18a and 18b) being arranged in series and caused to abut adjacent segments in such a way that the opening (28) through each segment (18a and 18b) is in communication with the openings through each of the adjacent segments so as to provide a passage to contain a microwave transmission line. Each segment (18a and 18b) is flexibly linked to its adjacent segments by coupling means (34).

Abstract: An insulating covering for pipes with an air inflatible flexible envelope having an inner and an outer skin, the inner skin adapted to fit loosely over the outer diameter of a pipe to be insulated and including respective male and female end portions adapted to respectively engage a female and male end portion of another envelope to form a continuous insulating cover for the pipe and an air valve mounted in the outer skin for the ingress and egress of air into the envelope thereby inflating the same to provide a substantially firm, self-supporting envelope not requiring any means of support when inflated other than the air encased within the envelope and surrounding the pipe and insulating the same from the ambient.

Abstract: An air conduit flange structure has a plurality of flange strip elements connected by angle connections. Each flange strip element is formed by folding a plate into an L-shape with its two opposite end edges defining a guide space, having a plurality of retainer projections and slide way portions for retaining a plurality of connecting strips which are formed in the casing of the air conduit. A shock-absorbing connector has two opposite metal end portions with a canvas connection. The metal end portions each have a plurality of raised porotrusions around its edge for fastening the two opposite end edges to the flange strip elements. Rubber strips are respectively attached to the air conduit flange and the shock-absorbing connector to protect against air leakage.

Abstract: The invention relates to an energy-conducting hose, the hose body (1) being formed by a plurality of C-shaped hose elements (2) and having a slot (3) which runs in the longitudinal direction of the hose. The slot is releasably closed by a cover (6) which consists of individual cover elements (7) which are each provided in the region of the two slot edges (3) with a recess (7a) intended for retaining and guiding the cover elements (7) on the hose body (1). Such an energy-conducting hose is distinguished by economical production, a high degree of rigidity and stability and by advantages in use.

Abstract: A suction pipe for a suction-type submerged pool cleaner has a spigot at one end for connection to the pool cleaner and a spigot at the other end for connection to a suction source. Part of the suction pipe extending from the suction head is formed into a substantially helical-like shape.

Abstract: A universally articulable supporting sheath comprises an interconnected series of links, each having a convex spherical surface at one end, and a concave spherical surface at its opposite end. The concave and convex surfaces mate with one another to form the sheath. Special links having branch openings may be provided. Various forms of waterproofing seals are provided including O-rings, axially compressed rings, flexible belts, and ridges on the spherical surfaces. The links can be fitted together by thermal expansion. However, an axially split link is also described, which comprises two parts which snap together. The split parts may be molded as a unit with an integral thin wall hinge. The bending characteristics and bending radius of a sheath can be modified by insertion of spacers between the links at selected locations, or by the insertion of pins into radial holes provided in the links.

Abstract: A universally articulable supporting sheath comprises an interconnected series of links, each having a convex spherical surface at one end, and a concave spherical surface at its opposite end. The concave and convex surfaces mate with one another to form the sheath. Special links having branch openings may be provided. Various forms of waterproofing seals are provided, including O-rings, axially compressed rings, flexible belts, and ridges on the spherical surfaces. The links can be fitted together by thermal expansion. However, an axially split link is also described, which comprises two parts which snap together. The split parts may be molded as a unit with an integral thin wall hinge. The bending characteristics and bending radius of a sheath can be modified by insertion of spacers between the links at selected locations, or by the insertion of pins into radial holes provided in the links.

Abstract: A sheathing for extending members having either a rectangular cross section or a circular cross section is formed of sheathing sections wherein the sheathing sections have two positions. In a first substantially flat position the sheathing sections are convenient to stack and when stacked the surfaces of adjacent stacked sheathing sections are substantially in contact with each other. In a second folded position the sheathing sections define an enclosed hollow space for disposing an extending member therein and surrounding the extending member to protect vehicles or other objects striking the extending member. Articulating hinges are provided for transposing the sheathing sections from one of these positions to the other. The sheathing sections are provided with dove tailing interengagement for joining sections of the sheathing to each other. Inserts brace the walls of the sheathing against extending members inside the space defined by joined sections.

Abstract: A control unit for a steerable probe of the type having a flexible insertion tube and a distal steering section which is articulated by displacing a pair of steering cables has a pair of pulleys which can be displaced within the housing to take up slack on the cables. A carrier plate for threaded sheath adjusters for the cable sheaths has a pair of threaded bores for the adjusters and a second pair of threaded bores that extend from the periphery of the carrier plate into the first bores. A pair of threaded set screws lock the adjusters at locking positions relative to the carrier plate. A plurality of set screws are distributed about the circumference of the distal end of the control housing. These set screws releasable engage the proximal portion of a strain relief fitting. This permits the strain relief fitting and the associated insertion tube to be rotated to a desired position relative to the housing.

Abstract: A pipe section of an outer metallic pipe and a nonmetallic inner lining is provided so that the lining can be removed. To this end, the lining consists of lining segments, the terminal members of which are braced against the ends of the pipe in a form fitting manner and the successive lining segments can interfit with, for example, complementary frustoconical formations.

Abstract: Pipes, typically of medium density polyethylene for use in underground distribution systems for natural gas are joined by fusion using a very short period (25 seconds) for heating the pipe ends and a very short period (3 seconds) between separation of ends from the heater body and engagement of the ends. Those periods are such that the beads formed by upset of the softened end material of the pipes are relatively small, e.g. beads have a cross-sectional area of 10mm.sup.2 for pipe for 250 mm outside diameter and wall thickness 15 mm. Typically such a bead extends only some 2.5 mm away from the adjacent pipe wall surface. Tensile, bending and impact tests show joint strength equivalent to the parent wall strength. In accelerated lifetime tests at high pressure and temperature the joints are at least equal to conventionally made joints.

Abstract: Tubing or pipe bend or elbow for use in carrying pneumatically conveyed granular material has an axial bore with an input opening at one end and gradually diminishes to a smaller opening at the output end, such that the incoming material sees a pressure relief, or drop, at the input to the bend. As a feature, a tubing bend may be segmented, i.e., made out of a series of separate or individual bends with the output of one coupled to the input of another.

Abstract: A flexible housing for use in protecting one or more transmission lines in a pressurized environment is provided comprising a conduit contained within a protective outer jacket. The conduit is constructed of a plurality of conduit segments, each segment having an opening therethrough, the segments being arranged in series and caused to abut adjacent segments in such a way that the opening through each segment is in communication with the openings through each of the adjacent segments so as to provide a passage to contain a transmission line. Each segment is flexibly linked to its adjacent segments by coupling means.

Abstract: A flexible endoscope comprising a handle, a flexible section, a terminal articulated length, at least one additional articulated length between the flexible section and the terminal articulated length, each articulated length being movable by two pairs of wires connected with servomechanisms so as to cause the bending of one only or of more articulated lengths simultaneously.

Abstract: A chimney liner system for insertion into a masonry chimney from the top of the chimney down to a stove or fireplace insert. If an offset or a chimney shelf exists in the chimney, a flexible metal pipe member is connected to the bottom end of the chimney liner system. A ceramic heat resistant cloth formed as a sleeve encloses the flexible metal pipe member in selected systems, and in some systems, the sleeve encloses the entire chimney liner system. In some applications, the sleeve may be made from a fiberglass cloth sewn or connected to an inner blanket insulation.

Abstract: A flexible tubular device composed of a plurality of movably interconnected tubular elements is provided, particularly for use as a protective tube for a flexible endoscope. At least two first extensions are provided at one end of each tubular element. Each of the extensions engages into a corresponding recess of an adjacent tubular element. The ends of the first extensions are bifurcated for locking the first extensions in the recesses.

Abstract: An anisotropic pressure sensitive adhesive tape for splicing cellulosic casing which includes a highly extensible isotropic backing and a plurality of filaments arranged on the backing. The filaments are arranged to restrain the extensibility of the tape in one direction so as to produce an anisotropic tape wherein the ratio of longitudinal to transverse stretch is on the order of 10:1 to 20:1.

Abstract: An endoscope comprising an operating body and an inserting portion extending therefrom. The inserting portion is provide with a bendable section which is composed of a plurality of tubular members arranged in facing relation to each other along an axis of the inserting portion. Each pair of adjacent tubular member are pivotally connected to each other. At least one pair of manipulating wires extend through the inserting portion to pivotally move each pair of adjacent tubular members relatively to each other, in order to curve the bendable section. A pair of wire guide members are fixedly received respectively in a pair of recesses formed in an inner peripheral surface of each tubular member. The manipulating wires extend respectively through the wire guide members on each tubular member.

Abstract: A plastics cover for a piping which comprises a plastics cover body of a wide strip-like shape and a substantially T-shaped rib arranged on one side edge of the cover body. The rib includes a leg portion connected to the cover body and a wing portion, so that an inner groove and an outer groove is defined between the wing portion and the cover body. Mounting of the cover on a pipe is carried out by interengaging a first engagement projection on the inner surface of the wing portion and a second engagement projection on the outer surface of the other side edge of the cover body.

Abstract: A flexible connector for screening machines comprises an assembly of a plurality of generally cylindrical, flexible collars. Each collar has an annular endwise bead on a first circumferential end and an annular endwise opening groove within an endwise surface of a second circumferential end. The collars are connected by applying force in an axial direction to adjacent and aligned collars to seat and secure the bead of one collar into the groove of an adjacent collar to form a tube along an axis of connection between a particle chute and a movable screen frame.

Abstract: An adjustable tube bending pattern device which is shaped to be readily and accurately formed into a wide variety of shapes so that it can be shaped to go around or avoid with sufficient clearance all obstacles, retain its shape but which can be reshaped and reused many times, to be used to form in place a precise pattern of a complex shaped tube or pipe which is then used as a pattern to accurately bend a tube or pipe to fit the intended use.

Abstract: A steering section for an endoscope or borescope employs a plurality of steering cables that pass through peripheral bores of axially aligned flat washers. Spacer beads are strung on the cables between the washers to define hinge points for the bending of the steering section. The spacer beads are tapered beads having a relatively wide base and relatively small, flat nose surface. A through-passage in the bead has a relatively narrow nose portion with a small clearance with respect to the steering cable, and a tapered or countersunk portion that expands basewards and prevents the spacer bead from binding the cable.

Abstract: A steering section for an endoscope or borescope employs a plurality of steering cables that pass through peripheral bores of axially aligned flat washers. Pairs of beads are strung on the cables between the washers to define hinge points for the bending of the steering section. Each pair of beads include a spherical-nose ball bead and a countersunk socket bead. A through-passage in the ball bead has a relatively narrow nose portion with a small clearance with respect to the steering cable, and a tapered or countersunk portion that expands basewards and prevents the spacer bead from binding the cable. The axial bores in the washers are tapered out fore and aft from a relatively narrow waist portion so that the cable touches the washer only at a single point. Limiter beads of about half the thickness of the spacing between washers limit the bending of the steering section.

Abstract: An endoscope according to the present invention comprises an observation optical system and an insertion section which includes a bending tube. A plurality of segments, which are rockably connected to one another, are arranged in the bending tube, and wire guides are fixed to the inner peripheral surface of each segment. One end of each of bending-control wires is fixed to the segment at the distal end portion of the bending tube. The other end of each wire extends to the proximal end portion of the insertion section, through the wire guides of the other segments. In this arrangement, the bending tube is bent by pulling the other ends of the bending-control wires. The endoscope further includes bending means arranged in the bending tube and adapted to bend, when the bending-control wire is pulled, the bending tube for moving the observation optical system such that the center of the system moves from the center of the insertion section to the periphery thereof.

Abstract: In a cable-steerable endoscope, borescope, or guide tube in which opposing cables are displaced to deflect the tip of the instrument, a self-adjusting mechanism in the control section ensures that a maximal differential force and a minimal total force is applied to the two steering cables. The self-adjusting mechanism has a frame that is affixed within the control section and a slider plate that is slidably disposed on a longitudinal rail of the frame. The slider plate projects outwardly to engage ends of the cable sheaths for the steering cables. The slider plate engages the frame rail when there is force on only one steering cable to lock the slider plate against sliding motion. When there is no force, or equal forces on the steering cables, the slider plate moves proximally on the frame.

Abstract: In a cable-steerable endoscope or borescope, in which opposing cables are displaced to deflect the tip of the endoscope or borescope, a self-adjusting mechanism in the control section ensures a maximal differential force and a minimal total force is applied to the two steering cables. The self-adjusting mechanism has a frame that is affixed within the control section and a slider that is slidably disposed on the frame. First and second arms project outwardly from the slider and engage ends of the cable sheaths for the steering cables. The slider has a structure that engages the frame when there is no force on one steering cable to lock the slider against sliding motion, but which permits the slider to move proximally on the frame when there are forces applied on both steering cables.

Abstract: An endoscope having a control head, an objective head and a flexible shaft therebetween. The shaft has a flexible core with a conduit means therewith. A deflection means is provided with the shaft having a tension member and a distal end compression member for controllably returning the distal end to an undeflected position.

Abstract: An inspection instrument for accessing a target area has a shaft with a structural core of flexible material. The core has sufficient rigidity to provide a continuous frame for the shaft, but also allows the shaft to be flexible for deflection. The core has a conduit means which passes through the core along a non-straight path to act as a deflection compensation means for conduit means deformation during shaft bending or deflection.

Abstract: A multiple channel duct manifold system for optical fibers which includes a plurality of elongated, corrugated tubing sections extended in parallel, contiguous relation to each other, and retained in such contiguous relation by a surrounding overwrap of thin flexible, synthetic resin film.

Abstract: A universally articulable supporting sheath comprises an interconnected series of links, each having a convex spherical surface at one end, and a concave spherical surface at its opposite end. The concave and convex surfaces mate with one another to form the sheath. Special links having branch openings may be provided. Various forms of waterproofing seals are provided, including O-rings, axially compressed rings, flexible belts, and ridges on the spherical surfaces. The links can be fitted together by thermal expansion. However, an axilly split link is also described, which comprises two parts which snap together. The split parts may be molded as a unit with an integral thin wall hinge. The bending characteristics and bending radius of a sheath can be modified by insertion of spacers between the links at selected locations, or by the insertion of pins into radial holes provided in the links.

Abstract: Connecting flange portions are form fitted in one piece with an essentially hollow profile at the end of a duct wall portion of a duct section formed from sheet metal. Supporting arms of the connecting flange portions extend back to the duct wall, and are folded into folding pockets which are formed from the duct wall. To attach intermediate connectors having larger duct cross-sections, the supporting arms can have outwardly extending protrusions.

Abstract: A multi-component tubular structure for underwater conveyance of fluids comprising a plastic pipe, annular concrete ballast weights threaded along said pipe, and steel pulling rods. The pulling rods give the tubular structure tensile strength needed for underwater pipe laying, while the annular weights give overall uniform mechanical protection to the plastic pipe and a controlled negative buoyancy during the laying operation of the empty pie, and stability for the operating pipe. The tubular structure of the present invention combines the known advantages of plastic pipe, i.e., high flexibility, resistance to corrosion, with the advantages of coated steel pipe, i.e., ease of laying by the "bottom pull" method, high immersed wieght, and overall external mechanical protection.

Abstract: A spliced casing and method wherein two pressure sensitive adhesive tapes are used to join the ends of cellulosic casing. A first tape adheres directly to the casing. A second tape, which is wider than the first tape, is wrapped about the first tape so lateral side margins of the second tape overlap the opposite side edges of the first tape and are adhered directly to the casing.

Abstract: A flexible tube or hose, particularly to carry cables, tubes and the like between a fixed and a removable end position. The tube or hose is of rectangular cross-section, and has separate, ring-shaped links that intermesh at a joint or separating line by means of locking-and-closing elements, arranged to bend only in one direction. The tube links have the joint or separating line on the internal or external side of the bend. The axially parallel portions of the links are connected by interengagement, or by material engagement, e.g. soldering, welding or adhesion. At least every second locking-and-closing element is of such a width that, starting from extended or buckled position of the tube, it blocks the mutual movement of neighboring or adjoining tube links.

Abstract: In the insertion part of at least one of an endoscope and an endoscope auxiliary inserted through this endoscope, guide wire receivers for curving wires passed through curvably jointed knot rings formed on the tip side of the insertion part are engaged and fixed respectively within incisions formed in the knot rings.

Abstract: A tube-like carrier, for energy and supply lines, comprising a plurality of interlocking link and bracket members that can be angled relative to one another. Inwardly disposed link members are provided with outwardly directed stops, and outwardly disposed bracket members, which interconnect adjacent link members, are provided with inwardly directed stops, with the stops of the link and bracket members interlocking with one another. On the upper and lower sides of the carrier, the link and bracket members leave respective openings that extend in the longitudinal direction of the carrier. Each opening is spanned by a flexible cover strip. To be able to provide a plurality of tube cross-sections, the link members are in the form of pairs of link members, with the link members of a given pair being disposed on opposite sides of the openings. A respective crosspiece is secured to, and disposed between, the two link members of each pair of link members.

Abstract: A device for limiting the bending radius of a submarine cable portion. The device is composed of a plurality of turbular elements (5) connected to one another in an articulated manner. Each element (5) is formed by a tubular cylindrical body (10) having two end flanges (12, 13) provided with circumferential through-holes (21, 31) for the passage of connecting members (4). One flange (12) has semi-spherical projecting members (28) in diametrically opposed positions with respect to each through-hole (21). The other flange (13) has complementary semi-spherical projecting members (28).

Abstract: An inspection instrument has an elongated flexible body which extends between a control assembly at a proximal end and an objective head at a distal end. Fiber optic bundles disposed within the instrument permit the illumination and the imaging of the interior regions of a structure being inspected. An articulating vertebrae assembly and a transitional coupler are disposed proximally of the objective head whereby the objective head is caused to move in an arc when tension is applied to interiorly disposed cables connecting the objective head to the control assembly. The vertebrae assembly is comprised of individual hollow vertebrae which are disposed along and axially aligned by a resilient stiffening member which is fixed at a distal end within the objective head and at a proximal end within the coupler.

Abstract: A carrier for energy lines and other supply lines, with the carrier being disposed between a fixed connection and a movable consuming device. The carrier includes a plurality of interlocking tubular link members that can be bent relative to one another. Inwardly disposed parts are provided with outwardly directed stops, and outwardly disposed parts are provided with inwardly directed stops, with these stops effecting the interlocking of the link members. Each of the link members is U-shaped, and is provided on its open side with inwardly directed projections. A flexible cover strip is inserted between the projections, and spans the opening of the link members in a self-supporting manner.

Abstract: Flexible tubing suitable for medical use is disclosed having a set of relatively stiff sections intercalated with a set of relatively flexible sections, each flexible section having a length no greater than twice the diameter of the tubing.

Abstract: A guide tube assembly for an industrial endoscope comprises a multiplicity of tube segments arranged to form therein a long guide bore. A hand actuator is connected to a proximal one of the tube segments. At least one pair of elongated members have their respective one ends fixedly secured to a distal one of the tube segments, and extend through communication bores formed in the remaining tube segments to the hand actuator. A resilient member is mounted on the hand actuator for resiliently pulling the elongated members to bias the tube segments so as to bring them into contact with each other.

Abstract: A shaft which is capable of flexing or articulation under remote control comprises a plurality of identical vertebrae each having a generally circular outer rim (1), an inner hub region (2), and a plurality of webs or spokes (3) interconnecting the outer rim and the inner hub region. The inner hub region presents a projection (6) on one face of the vertebra and a recess (5) on the other face of the vertebra, the projection and recess being of complementary shape and being such that the projections and recesses of adjacent vertebrae arranged in series inter-engage to permit rocking of one vertebra on the adjacent vertebra to provide flexing or articulation. The flexible shaft may form part of an endoscope or other similar medical instrument, or may be the shaft of an industrial instrument such as a bore-scope.