Patent ID: 7112054
Filing Date: 2006-09-26
Classification: B29C,B29K,B29L,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for consolidation joining a thermoplastic preform to form a duct having a longitudinal consolidation joint and defining a passage, the apparatus comprising: a first support structure extending longitudinally and at least partially defining a cavity capable of supporting the preform in a preformed configuration that corresponds to a desired configuration of the duct; a second support structure extending longitudinally in the cavity defined by said first support structure such that the preform can be supported between said first and second support structures, said second support structure comprising a rigid elongate member having an outer surface corresponding to the desired configuration of the duct; and a heater assembly configured to heat an interface of the preform to above a glass transition temperature while the preform is supported between the first and second support structures, wherein at least one of said first support structure, said second support structure, and said heater assembly is elastomeric so as to conform to the interface of the preform, and wherein said first support structure is configured to adjust radially from a first position toward said second support structure to a second position and thereby urge the preform against the second support structure while the preform is supported in the preformed configuration corresponding to the desired configuration of the duct and thereby configure the preform to the desired configuration of the duct.