Elastic sidewall for bellows connection between two vehicles or vehicle parts comprises reinforcement layers with resin flow distribution layer between and elastomer insert linked to reinforcing layers

摘要

The sidewall is a laminated multi-layer construction comprising layers of reinforcement(3,5) in the form of knitted, woven or non-woven materials. An intermediate layer(4) between one or more layers of reinforcement acts as a flow distributor for an impregnating resin. An elastomer insert(6) at the side of the sidewall connects with the reinforcing layers. The intermediate layer(4) can be a perforated foil or a porous membrane to allow trapped air to escape. Different types of reinforcement layers may be incorporated in a sidewall. A flame resistant coating may be applied to the sidewall. The elastomer insert(6) has an angled shape. An independent claim is included for a process for manufacturing the elastic sidewall in which individual layers(3,4,5) are laid in a tool(1) and sealed, e.g. with a film(12), to give an airtight structure. A vacuum injection molding process is then used to impregnate the reinforcement and the structure is heated to cure, preferably at 100-120[deg]C, but not >140[deg]C, which also cures the unvulcanized elastomer insert.