Method for making flexible corrugated rubber tubing and tubing produced thereby
Abstract
Abstract A method and apparatus for making flexible rubber tubing with axially spaced annular or helical corrugations. A sleeve of uncured vulcanizable rubber is slipped over a forming mandrel and an external form comprising a length of flexible, corrugated, axially compressible rubber tubing is positioned over the sleeve. The interior wall of the external form defines a shaping surface for use in forming embryonic corrugations in the sleeve. The sleeve is radially expanded into the shaping surface and the form and sleeve are axially compressed concertina-fashion to increase the radial dimensions of bulged portions of the sleeve between the corrugations of the external form to make embryonic corrugations in the sleeve. The sleeve and external form are then removed from the forming mandrel and the sleeve is placed on a curing mandrel with the corrugations at desired spacings, after which the sleeve is cured.
Inventors
- 👤 Vance M. Kramer, Sr.
- 👤 Vance M. Kramer, Jr.
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 10References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1981-09-11 | 1982-03-13 | 1982-09-12 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1985-09-11 | 1986-03-13 | 1986-09-12 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1989-09-11 | 1990-03-13 | 1990-09-12 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |