Post-forming of thermoplastic ducts
US7128558B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 9, 2002 |
| Grant date | Oct 31, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S425/218
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method are provided for thermoplastically forming a contour in a thermoplastic duct defining a passage. The apparatus includes a longitudinal collar that defines a cavity and a rigid inner support structure extending longitudinally in the cavity. The collar and/or the inner support structure define a mold contour. One or more heaters are configured to heat at least a formation portion of the duct to a formation temperature. An expansion member, such as an expandable elastomer, which is disposed between an inner surface of the collar and an outer surface of the inner support structure, is configured to urge the formation portion of the duct against the mold contour to thermoplastically form the duct.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.