Compositions and Methods for Sealing

Abstract

The present invention relates to compositions and methods for creating insulating seals for use in a variety of applications, and to seals created by such compositions and methods. In particular, the present invention provides novel compositions and methods for creating insulating edge seals that provide multiple contact surfaces. The present invention further provides seals that facilitate attachment of flexible covering materials (such as fabrics, plastics, metals, etc.) to hard surfaces (such as plastics, metals, woods, etc.). The present invention is particularly useful for creating insulating edge seals that provide a means of attachment for removable covers for vehicles (such as tops for automobiles, watercraft, and aircraft), structures, and objects.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A composition comprising a fabric material attached to a seal, wherein said seal comprises a first and second surface, said first surface attached to said fabric material, said second surface having a central portion parallel to said first surface, and a left portion and a right portion not parallel to said first surface, wherein said central, left, and right portions are each configured to form a distinct contact surface with an object contacted by said seal. 
     
     
         2 . The composition of  claim 1 , wherein said seal is rubber. 
     
     
         3 . The composition of  claim 1 , wherein said fabric comprises a flexible top covering for a marine vessel. 
     
     
         4 . A method of creating a seal comprising: (a) attaching a fabric material to a seal, wherein said seal comprises a first and second surface, said first surface attached to said fabric material, said second surface having a central portion parallel to said first surface, and a left portion and a right portion not parallel to said first surface, wherein said central, left, and right portions are each configured to form a distinct contact surface with an object contacted by said seal, and (b) attaching said seal to an object under conditions such that said central, left, and right portions of the seal each form a distinct contact surface with the object. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein said seal is rubber. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein said fabric comprises a flexible top covering for a marine vessel.