초록 ▼

Apparatus for applying heat to a patch on a composite structure repair site includes a sealed bladder containing both a thermally conductive fluid and a heating element in thermal contact with the fluid. The heating element which comprises a flexible sheet having an electrical resistance wire unifor

Apparatus for applying heat to a patch on a composite structure repair site includes a sealed bladder containing both a thermally conductive fluid and a heating element in thermal contact with the fluid. The heating element which comprises a flexible sheet having an electrical resistance wire uniformly placed thereon can be immersed in the fluid or otherwise in direct thermal contact therewith. Electrical power is applied to the heating element by conductors passing through the bladder surface. The heating element of disclosed structure can be attached to seal the bladder interior into two reservoirs, to permit fluid flow throughout the bladder or to form at least one outer surface of the bladder. Flexible supports can also be attached from the heating element to an interior bladder surface to maintain spacing between the heating element and the surface. To prevent diffusion of the thermally conductive fluid, a separate container of thermally conductive fluid impermeable material can be placed inside the bladder. The outer bladder may be sealed by mechanical frame apparatus which compresses the bladder surface material at a perimeter thereof.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A heating apparatus for applying substantially uniform heat to a repair site to heat the site to about 300.degree. F., comprising:(a) a fluid impermeable material having a first surface for contact with a repair site and an outer surface, the material defining a reservoir

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A heating apparatus for applying substantially uniform heat to a repair site to heat the site to about 300.degree. F., comprising:(a) a fluid impermeable material having a first surface for contact with a repair site and an outer surface, the material defining a reservoir for a heat transfer medium;(b) a layer of insulating material attached to and cover the outer surface;(c) a heat transfer medium in the reservoir, the medium being liquid at 300.degree. F.;(d) a flexible heating element attached to the outer surface to trap heat within the reservoir; and(e) means for applying heating power to said heating element.