METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING A FLEXIBLE CURTAIN

摘要

A method and apparatus for manufacturing a flexible curtain (128). Edges of a polymeric material are folded back on themselves by using beveled rollers (110-116). A portion of the folded edges (132) are secured and a portion is left unsecured or free. The free, or unsecured flap (135) of the folded edges (132) absorbs shock associated with storm disturbances. Edge rollers (118, 119) are used to laminate the folded edges (132) of the flexible curtain (128) selectively such that only a portion of the folded edge (132) is secured leaving the flap (135) unsecured. Stitching (120, 121), ultrasonic welding (405, 406) and gluing (170) are alternative ways and/or additional ways of providing for the securement of a portion of the edge to itself. Perforations are made by perforating rollers (122, 123), stationary punch (1000) or indexing punch (1200) in the secured portion of the folded edge.