Abstract:
a method of manufacturing a plurality of bladders is disclosed. The method includes a step of providing a first sheet and a second sheet of a thermoplastic polymer material. Bonds are formed between the first sheet and the second sheet in a tessellation pattern to define the bladders so that a plurality of the bladder may be efficiently manufactured. In addition a portion of the bonds is bisected and a pressurized fluid may be inflated within the bladders via inflation channels. The bonds can be shaped to have a hexagonal configuration
Abstract:
A plurality of joined bladders that enclose a pressurized fluid, the joined bladders each having a hexagonal configuration that includes three first convex edges alternating with three first concave edges. A bladder has its concave and convex edges mating with convex and concave edges of neighbouring bladders respectively. This particular tesselation configuration enables manufacturing efficiency.
Abstract:
A fluid-filled structure, such as a bladder (40), is disclosed. The bladder has a first surface (41) and an opposite second surface (42) that are peripherally joined (43) to define various edges (51-56). The bladder encloses a fluid between the first surface and the second surface. Both surfaces are peripherally joined to define an edge (43) of the bladder. A bond (44) spaced inward from the edge defines a channel between the bond and the edge. An inflation area (45) is provided in fluid communication with the channel and provides a zone for inserting the fluid into the bladder, said area being sealed to seal the fluid within said bladder.