Importance

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Abstract

A collapsible, open cell void filler (2) is made by stacking a series of paper core sheets (58) and gluing the core sheets to one another at appropriate points (56) to create a generally hexagonal open cell core structure when expanded. The stack (60) of core sheets is cut along a series of cutting planes (62) to create rows of independently expandable hexagonal cells (16). The end cells (20) of each row are connected to one another by an outer sheet (18) to create a core slab (68). When the outer sheets are separated, the rows of cells expand from their collapsed, reduced volume condition to their expanded, increased volume condition. As the cells expand they separate laterally from one another along the cutting planes. This eliminates deformation of the cells and permits the full extension of the rows of cells. Deck sheets (6) can be fastened to the outer sheets so that when the core slab is expanded, the deck sheets lie adjacent the open cell ends (28).

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First Claim