Method and apparatus for sealing joints between components of vehicles
US6431549B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 21, 2000 |
| Grant date | Aug 13, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 21, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16J15/108
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A sealing method and apparatus involves positioning sealant carriers in a gap between first and second components to be sealed. Sealant is applied to a first major surface of the sealant carriers. As the first and second components are tightened together, the carriers are compressed and cause sealant to travel from the first major surface and through the carriers to a second major surface which is opposed to the first major surface. The sealant carriers may be positioned on respective carrier supports while sealant is being applied to the first major surface of the sealant carriers. The supports are used in initially positioning the sealant carriers in place and then are removed prior to tightening the first and second components together. The supports may include alignment mechanisms for use in aligning the sealant carriers with one of the first and second components. The sealant adheres the sealant carriers to such one of the first and second components following removal of the supports.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.