Bimodal flexible-rigid hose

摘要

The present invention provides a flexible hose easily converted to a rigid hose. The flexible-rigid bimodal hose comprises a plurality of adjacently engaged hollow members defining a tube having a first end, a second end, and an elongated hollow. A flexible tube as well as a cable pass through the hollow and extend therethrough. The cable acts as a means to apply tension on the hollow members. The hose has a flexible state in which each one of the hollow members is rotating in respect to neighboring hollow member and a rigid state in which the hollow members are forced together by the cable so that there is no relative movement between neighboring hollow members. An actuation means, which can be mechanically or hydraulically operated, is adapted to apply different tensile forces on the cable.