O'neill, Inc.

Tommas J Tompkins

Mark J Meltzer

An apparatus ( ) for forming a butt seam ( ) between opposed edges ( ) of resiliently compressible, fully cured, elastomeric, fabric sheets ( ), such as foamed neoprene for wet suits and dry suits. In some embodiments ( ) the apparatus includes fabric manipulating assembly ( ) which continuously compresses the sheets proximate and inwardly of the edges, preferably by a roller assembly ( ), to firmly press the opposed edges of the flexible and compressible sheets ( ) tightly together during movement and bonding along the seam ( ). The apparatus ( ) preferably includes adhesive activation device in the form of an ultrasonic transducer ( ) which contacts the neoprene pieces to activate a dry neoprene cement carried on the edges of the fabric pieces. Embodiments ( ) are shown which include a force applying assembly ( ) that hammers the foam pieces against the ultrasonic transducer horn ( ), or the horn ( ) against the foam pieces, to enhance sonic energy coupling and to simultaneously press the pieces together for improved adhesive bonding. A method for forming the butt seam ( ) is described.

Apparatus and method for forming an adhesively bonded seam between resiliently compressible fabric sheets

An apparatus for forming a butt seam between opposed edges of resiliently compressible fabric sheets, such as foamed neoprene for wet suits and dry suits. The apparatus includes fabric manipulating assembly which continuously compresses the sheets proximate and inwardly of the edges, preferably by a roller assembly, to form opposed shoulders or areas that will permit the application of a lateral force to firmly press the opposed edges of the flexible and compressible sheets tightly together during movement and bonding along the seam. The apparatus preferably includes adhesive activation means in the form of an ultrasonic transducer which contacts the neoprene pieces in advance of compression rollers to activate a dry neoprene cement carried on the edges of the fabric pieces. A method for forming the butt seam is described, as are alternatively adhesive activating assemblies and a seamed neoprene fabric sheet.

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Berkeley, CA, United States of America

Tommas J Tompkins