CONTINUOUS STRENGTH MEMBER

Abstract

At least one vibration isolation module (VIM) and at least one acoustic sor module of an elongate array are uniquely accommodated by a continuously extending, hose-shaped strength member dimensioned to define a space for noncompressively containing the acoustic sensor module and allow responsive sensing. The strength member has a nonelastic first portion to contain the length of the acoustic sensor module and includes a plurality of longitudinally extending juxtaposed cords. The cords are held in an equidistantly spaced side-by-side relationship by an appropriate fill-weave that assures sufficient flexibility. A coextensive portion of the strength member is fabricated from the plurality of longitudinally continuously extending juxtaposed cords to extend in an exaggerated sine wave configuration throughout the length of the VIM. A plurality of elastic warp bogies are disposed in-between the cords and are held in a side-by-side relationship by substantially the same appropriate fill-weave. The elastic warp bogies and sine wave configuration of the cords allow the strength member to be longitudinally stretched as it bears the array's dynamic drag. Increased loads can stretch the elastic warp bogies to a maximum length to where the cords carry any additional load. Opposite ends of the coextensive portion of the strength member are secured to the elastic sheath for load sharing with the sheath. Optionally, the VIM could be separate to accommodate existing arrays or other vibration isolation applications.

Source: Google Patents

35 USC §181 Secrecy Order

Inventor

• 1HOWARD A. MILLER