Transparent pressure bladder
US6486433B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 11, 2001 |
| Grant date | Nov 26, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 11, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29C66/73921
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An inflatable bladder system for applying generally uniform pressure to parts being welded to insure proper contact at the welding interface includes a first sheet that is generally transparent to electromagnetic radiation to allow such radiation to pass therethrough. This electromagnetic radiation serves to heat the parts to a temperature sufficient to create a weld. The inflatable bladder also includes a second sheet that is also generally transparent to electromagnetic radiation. The second sheet is coupled to the first sheet to create a sealed volume therebetween. Fluid is selectively introduced into the sealed volume in order to expand the bladder into engagement with the parts being welded to exert a generally uniform pressure thereon.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.