JP7004511B2 - Methods and systems for curing materials in cavities - Google Patents

Description

Curing a thermosetting material placed in a cavity can be a difficult task in the case of potting compounds and the like in an aerospace panel. Often, the curing process involves heating the various surrounding components and / or disassembling and subsequent reassembling the components. For example, the thermosetting material may be placed in a cavity of an internal component stacked between two external components. To cure this thermosetting material, at least one of the external components may be heated using an external heater such as a heat blanket. This approach depends on the heat transfer from the external component to the thermosetting material. External components do not need to be heated if they are not affected by heat conduction. For example, heating of such external components is often undesirable if the components can deteriorate during curing. Moreover, this external heating approach is slow, requires a large amount of heating energy, and can also cause heating of at least one other component adjacent to the thermosetting material (often many other components as well). Will be).

In some cases, the heat transfer properties of other heating components can affect heat transfer. For example, a component with good thermal conductivity properties can cause heat dissipation and actually carry heat away from the thermosetting material. This can cause unwanted heating of other components and / or inadequate curing of the thermosetting material. Moreover, the various heated components can act as heat sinks that require additional heating energy, resulting in increased overall processing time, energy, and thermosetting as described herein. Processing efficiency is reduced compared to direct heating of the material. On the other hand, components with poor thermal conductivity properties may act as thermal barriers and block thermal conduction to thermosetting materials.

Moreover, heating of other components may be undesirable in some cases. For example, such components may be made from a thermosetting material and change its properties when attempting to cure the thermosetting material (eg, melting, changing the desired heat treatment properties, or pre-setting. Reheating after curing may change various properties of the thermoplastic or thermosetting laminate). Overall, there is a need for more efficient means of curing thermosetting materials placed within cavities.

Methods are provided for thermosetting a variety of materials, such as thermosetting materials, or more specifically, implantable resins that are placed in the cavities of various components with limited access to the material. Also provided is a curing system for performing such methods. Curing is performed by internal heating and, in some embodiments, by direct heating of the thermosetting material. For example, the thermosetting material may be placed in the cavity of the component and heated into the thermosetting material or by a heating rod protruding through the cavity. The component may have a honeycomb structure or other similar structure. At least a portion of the heating rod is thermally coupled to the thermosetting material, which portion is used to conduct heat to the thermosetting material, thereby curing the thermosetting material. The heating element of the heating rod may be arranged so that the thermosetting material is selectively heated in the cavity without significantly heating other components around it. In some embodiments, the heating rod may also compress a component containing a thermosetting material in the cavity, or a stack containing this component. Moreover, the heating rod may include a phase change material for controlling the temperature of the thermosetting material.

In some embodiments, the method of curing the thermosetting material in the cavity of the first component is to thermally connect the heating rod and the thermosetting material placed in the cavity, as well as thermosetting. It involves conducting heat from the heating rod to the thermosetting material while the sex material is placed in the cavity and thermally coupled to the heating rod. By conducting heat from the heating rod to the thermosetting material, the thermosetting material can be cured. Thermally connecting the heating rod to the thermosetting material involves inserting the heating rod into the cavity and applying the thermosetting material to the cavity. In other words, after inserting the heating rod and applying the thermosetting material, the thermosetting material can be thermally coupled to at least a part of the heating rod in the cavity.

The heating rod may be inserted into the cavity prior to applying the thermosetting material to the cavity. In another aspect, the heating rod may be inserted into the cavity after applying the thermosetting material to the cavity. Furthermore, the heating rod may be inserted into the cavity while applying the thermosetting material to the cavity. For example, the thermosetting material may be placed on or around the heating rod prior to inserting the heating rod into the cavity. When the heating rod is inserted into the cavity, the heating rod transfers heat to the thermosetting material in the cavity.

In some embodiments, conducting heat to a thermosetting material comprises heating at least a portion of a heating rod that is thermally coupled to the thermosetting material. For example, this heating may be resistance heating and may include applying a voltage to the resistance heating element disposed in the heating rod. In some embodiments, the conduction of heat to the thermosetting material is carried out while monitoring the temperature of the thermosetting material. This monitoring can be performed using a heating rod, more specifically a thermocouple of the heating rod. In some embodiments, the temperature feedback can be used to change the amount of heat transfer to the thermosetting material, for example by varying the voltage applied to the resistance heating element. In some embodiments, the additional portion of the heating rod is not heated. This additional portion is not thermally coupled to the thermosetting material. In some embodiments, the additional portion of the heating rod is cooled.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises a portion of a first component, or a portion of a second component stacked on the first component, while conducting heat to the thermosetting material. Includes cooling. Cooling part of the first part, or part of the second part stacked on the first part, is performed by using a heating rod to conduct heat transfer to the thermosetting material. Will be executed in the meantime.

In some embodiments, the heating rod comprises a phase change material. In such an embodiment, heat conduction to the thermosetting material involves changing the phase of the phase changing material, thereby controlling the temperature of the thermosetting material. For example, a thermosetting material can be cured at the phase change temperature of the phase change material.

In some embodiments, the thermosetting material is sealed within the cavity of the first component while at least a portion of the heating rod is thermally coupled to the thermosetting material. While conducting heat to the thermosetting material, the thermosetting material can come into direct contact with the heating rod. More specifically, the thermosetting material may be in direct contact with the coating or sleeve of the heating rod. In this embodiment, the coating or sleeve may be releasable or non-adhesive to the thermosetting material.

In some embodiments, the heating rod comprises a heating element and an enclosure that encloses the heating element. The heating rod may also include a coating placed on the enclosure. The sheath and enclosure may be made of different materials. The coating may help remove the heating rod after the thermosetting material has hardened. For example, the coating does not adhere to thermosetting materials. In some embodiments, when the thermosetting material cures, the coating may have a coefficient of thermal expansion greater than the coefficient of thermal expansion of the thermosetting material.

In some embodiments, the heating rod may further include a sleeve placed over the enclosure. Enclosures and sleeves contain different materials. The sleeve can be used in addition to or as an alternative to the coating. In some embodiments, the sleeve is removable from the enclosure, which can help remove the heating rod from the cavity after the thermosetting material has hardened. Specifically, the sleeve may be held in the cavity after the heating rod has been removed from the cavity. In such embodiments, the method may further comprise removing the sleeve from the cavity. In another aspect, the sleeve may be held in the cavity or may be a part assembled with the first part. The sleeve may contain a polymer. More specifically, the polymer of the sleeve may be a fluorinated polymer.

In some embodiments, the heating element of the heating rod is connected to the first and second conductors. The first and second conductors can be used, for example, to power the heating elements of the heating rod. The first conductor may extend from the first end of the enclosure, while the second conductor may extend from the second end of the enclosure, which is different from the first end. This type of heating rod can project through the first component. In another aspect, both the first and second conductors may extend from the first end of the enclosure. This type of heating rod can be used for blind holes.

In some embodiments, the heating element extends to less than 75% or less than 50% of the length of the enclosure. This feature can be used for selective heating of thermosetting materials. The rest of the enclosure may remain unheated or may include cooling elements.

In some embodiments, the heating rod projects through the first component. This approach can be used to apply compressive force to the first component using a heating rod. Furthermore, the heating rod can project through a second component stacked with the first component. In this embodiment, the two parts can be compressed together by a heating rod. In some embodiments, the portion of the heating rod protruding through the second component does not generate heat while conducting the heat from the heating rod to the thermosetting material.

In some embodiments, the first component is porous. The second component may retain the thermosetting material within the boundaries of the first component (eg, hermetically sealed) so that the thermosetting material is not extruded beyond the boundaries until it has cured. For example, the first component may have a honeycomb structure and the cavities may be pores in the honeycomb structure.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises placing a bearing tube over a heating rod. The bearing tube can be adhered to the first component by a thermosetting material. The bearing tube may be placed on the heating rod before inserting the heating rod into the cavity. In another aspect, the bearing tube may be placed on the heating rod after inserting the heating rod into the cavity.

In some embodiments, the cavity of the first component is a through hole. In this embodiment, the heating rod may extend completely through the cavity and extend to the outside of the first component on the opposite side of the first component. In another aspect, the cavity of the first component may be a blind hole. In this embodiment, the heating rod projects into the cavity and does not extend through the first component.

The thermosetting material is selected from the group consisting of implantable resins and adhesives. The first component may be a composite material such as an E-glass composite or any other form of graphite / carbon fiber composite.

Thermosetting materials may be heated to about 150 ° F to 250 ° F, more specifically to about 175 ° F to 225 ° F, while being cured in the cavity. be. This temperature can be selected depending on the thermosetting material. In some embodiments, the temperature of the thermosetting material remains nearly constant for most of the heating period (eg, greater than 50%).

In some embodiments, the method further cools a portion of the first component or a portion of the second component stacked on top of the first component while conducting heat to the thermosetting material. Including doing. This cooling can be utilized to ensure that other components in the vicinity of the thermosetting material remain at a temperature lower than, for example, the temperature required to cure the thermosetting material. Cooling can be performed using a portion of the heating rod.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises removing the heating rod from the cavity after the thermosetting material has hardened. The method may include attaching a fastener to the cavity of the first component after removing the heating rod from the cavity. In some embodiments, the method further comprises forming a cavity in the first component.

Also presented is another embodiment of a method of curing a thermosetting material in the cavity of a first component. In this embodiment, the method comprises thermally connecting the heating rod placed in the cavity to the thermosetting material, as well as changing the phase of the phase changing material placed in the cavity. Phase change The phase change of the material can be realized at the curing temperature of the thermosetting material. Further, the phase change of the phase change material placed in the cavity is part of the heat conduction from the heating rod to the thermosetting material while the thermosetting material is placed in the cavity. As mentioned above, the conduction of heat from the heating rod to the thermosetting material can cure the thermosetting material. Moreover, as described above, the thermal connection between the heating rod disposed in the cavity and the thermosetting material may include the insertion of the heating rod into the cavity and the application of the thermosetting material to the cavity. Various other aspects of this embodiment have already been described.

In some embodiments, the curing system comprises a heating rod, a first support, and a second support. The heating rod may include a heating element, an enclosure surrounding the heating element, a first wire connected to the heating element, and a second wire connected to the heating element. The first support engages the enclosure of the heating rod. The second support engages the enclosure of the heating rod. The second support is movable between the first and second ends of the heating rod, while continuously engaging the enclosure of the heating rod.

The heating element of the heating rod is a resistance heating element. In some embodiments, the curing system also comprises a thermocouple that measures the temperature of the enclosure. The curing system also comprises a system controller that controls the power supplied to the heating element of the heating rod.

In some embodiments, the heating rod also comprises a sleeve placed over the enclosure. Enclosures and sleeves contain different materials. For example, the sleeve may include a polymer such as a fluorinated polymer. The sleeve may be removable. In some embodiments, the heating rod may include a coating placed on top of the enclosure. Enclosures and coatings contain different materials.

In some embodiments, the first conductor extends from the first end of the enclosure, while the second conductor extends from the second end of the enclosure, which is different from the first end. In another aspect, both the first and second conductors extend from the same end of the enclosure, eg, the first end.

The heating element can extend to less than 75% of the length of the enclosure, more specifically to less than 50% of the length.

These embodiments and other embodiments will be further described below with reference to the figures.

It is a process flow diagram corresponding to the method of curing a thermosetting material in the cavity of a component according to some embodiments. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stack of two components, each with a cavity, according to some embodiments. According to some embodiments, in the schematic cross-sectional view of the stack shown in FIG. 2A, the heating rods project through the cavity. According to some embodiments, in the schematic cross-sectional view of the stack shown in FIG. 2A, the heating rod projects through the cavity and the thermosetting material is located in one of the cavities. According to some embodiments, in the schematic cross-sectional view of the stack shown in FIG. 2C, the bearing tube (bushing) is located in one cavity. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stack shown in FIG. 2D, in which the parts are secured by the heating rods so that they are compressed by the heating rods according to some embodiments. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stack shown in FIG. 2E showing the power and control components of a curing system according to some embodiments. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stack shown in FIG. 2E after the thermosetting material has been cured and the heating rods have been removed from the cavity according to some embodiments. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stack shown in FIG. 2G after mounting the fasteners through the cavity according to some embodiments. According to some embodiments, in the schematic cross-sectional view of the stack shown in FIG. 2G, the sleeve of the heating rod remains in the cavity. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the stack shown in FIG. 2A before sliding the bearing tube onto the heating rod and inserting the heating rod into the cavity according to some embodiments. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a part in which a heating rod projects through the cavity of the part and is thermally coupled to a thermosetting material placed in the cavity according to some embodiments. In a schematic cross-sectional view of a stack of three parts in which a heating rod projects through all three parts and is thermally coupled to a thermosetting material placed in the cavity of the intermediate part according to some embodiments. be. It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a part having an invisible cavity in which a thermosetting material is placed in the cavity and a heating rod extends into the cavity according to some embodiments. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stack in which, according to some embodiments, the intermediate parts have a honeycomb type structure and the thermosetting material is located in one cell of this honeycomb type structure. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stack in which, according to some embodiments, the intermediate parts have a honeycomb type structure and the thermosetting material is located in one cell of this honeycomb type structure. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stack in which a heating rod projects through the stack and is in direct contact with a thermosetting material placed within the cavity of one component forming the stack, according to some embodiments. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stack in which, according to some embodiments, a heating rod projects through the stack and is in direct contact with a thermosetting material placed in the cavity of the two components forming the stack. It is a schematic diagram of the curing system by some embodiments. It is a schematic of another embodiment of a curing system in two states according to some embodiments. It is a schematic of another embodiment of a curing system in two states according to some embodiments. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heating rod showing the internal components of the rod according to some embodiments. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a heating rod according to some embodiments. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of still another embodiment of a heating rod according to some embodiments. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a heating rod having a phase change material disposed inside an enclosure according to some embodiments. It is a block diagram of the manufacturing and maintenance method of an aircraft which can utilize the methods and assemblies described in this document. It is a schematic diagram of an aircraft that may include the methods and assemblies described in this document.

The description below specifies a number of specific details to provide a complete understanding of the concepts presented. The concepts presented are practicable without some or all of these specific details. In other cases, well-known process steps are not described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the concepts described. Although some concepts are described in relation to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are not intended to be limiting.

Introduction Curing of various thermosetting materials such as implantable resins and adhesives is important in many applications. Some examples of these applications include, but are not limited to, structural / non-structural composite / metal hole repair, sandwich panel manufacturing / repair, curing of aerospace structural embedding resin. Uses such as are included. Thermosetting materials are often placed in hard-to-reach locations, such as inside deep, narrow cavities and / or in component cavities located beneath other components. As mentioned above, external heating of these assemblies results in heating of surrounding parts and may be undesirable due to processing time, material limitations, and other reasons mentioned above.

Methods and systems for curing various materials placed in cavities and / or elsewhere with limited access are provided. Curing is achieved by internal heating, and in some embodiments, these materials are heated directly by placing a heat source, such as a heating rod, inside the cavity. The internal heating approach has many advantages over conventional external heating, such as faster processing, lower thermal energy consumption, and lower heating of other components.

In some embodiments, the cavity may be formed inside a part covered by another part, such as a cavity formed inside an inner part stacked between outer parts. For example, the cavity may be a void in a sandwich panel core (eg, a honeycomb core) that is formed during manufacturing or repair. The sandwich panel core may have a solid outer panel, while the inner panel may be porous (eg, containing voids).

The method includes, for example, inserting a heating rod into the cavity and applying a thermosetting material to the cavity to thermally connect the heating rod placed in the cavity with the thermosetting material. Can be included. The heating rod and the thermosetting material are thermally connected in the cavity. In some embodiments, the thermosetting material is an implantable resin. However, other types of thermosetting materials are also included in the range. This method promotes heat conduction from the heating rod to the thermosetting material and can cause the thermosetting material to cure. This heat conduction involves heating the heating rod and, in some embodiments, may include phase change of the phase change material. For example, the heating rod may include a resistance heating element, and the method may include passing an electric current through the heating element. In the same embodiment, or in another embodiment, the heating rod may include a phase change material, which has a phase change temperature corresponding to the cure temperature of the thermosetting material.

The location and design of the heating rod is such that heat is conducted primarily to the thermosetting material. For example, more than 50% of the heat generated by the heating rod can be conducted to the thermosetting material. This approach is sometimes referred to as direct heating or local heating of thermosetting materials. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the heat conducted to the thermosetting material can be dissipated from the thermosetting material to other surrounding components. However, when these components are used to transfer heat to a thermosetting material, this approach results in less heating of the surrounding components than conventional external heating.

Most of the heat is conducted to the thermosetting material due to the fact that the heating rod is more directly thermally coupled to the thermosetting material. This is also referred to as primary heating and / or direct heating of the thermosetting material. This process also results in somewhat limited heating of the structure surrounding the thermosetting material, also known as secondary heating. In other words, heat can also be conducted to one or more parts that form a cavity containing a thermosetting material. This heat distribution approach is clearly different from the external heating method. Overall, in the methods and systems described, heat is delivered where it is actually needed and by reducing the heating of other components, the whole process becomes more efficient, faster and surrounding. Reduce damage to components.

In some embodiments, cooling may be applied to one or more components surrounding the thermosetting material in order to minimize heat distribution beyond the thermosetting material. This cooling may be provided externally or internally. For example, the cooling element may be thermally coupled to one or more outer surfaces of the component. In the same embodiment, or in another embodiment, the heating rod can be used for cooling. Note that this cooling provided by the heating rod is associated with heating. For example, the cooling mechanism may be located within the enclosure of the heating rod. In another aspect, the heating rod may be used for heat conduction or may be thermally coupled to an externally mounted cooling element.

In some embodiments, the thermosetting material can be placed in a laminate having a thickness of at least 0.25 inches, or at least about 0.5 inches. Without being limited to any particular theory, it is believed that conventional external heating is ineffective at such large thicknesses. Moreover, in some embodiments, access to the thermosetting material may be limited to one side of the laminate. For example, the cavity containing the thermosetting material may be a blind hole, or the laminate may be placed on top of another structure (eg, the laminate may be an aircraft interior panel mounted on an exterior panel. Can be). Some specific examples of laminates include, but are not limited to, aircraft interior panels and aircraft nacelle panels. The core of the laminate can be embedded where it is desirable to attach the through fasteners, as further described below. In other words, the cured material is then used to provide a support inside various types of laminates, especially laminates with a porous internal structure. Due to the light weight of the porous internal structure, it is becoming more and more common in aircraft and other applications.

In general, the methods and systems described above have a variety of thermosetting properties by supplying heat from within the cavity and, in some embodiments, directly to these materials. Can be used to cure materials. This approach improves processing speed compared to traditional external heating, eliminates overheating of surrounding parts and allows for more precise control of the curing process (eg curing temperature and / or curing time). do. Moreover, this approach eliminates the need to disassemble the multi-component stack to access the thermosetting materials placed in the stack. Various aspects of such methods and systems will be described in more detail herein with reference to specific diagrams.

Processing Example FIG. 1 is a process flow diagram of a method 100 for curing a thermosetting material 250 arranged in a cavity 212 of a first component 210 according to some embodiments. Some examples of the first component 210 may be selected from the group consisting of laminated structures (eg, laminated structures within a porous inner core), carbon fiber reinforced polymers, and honeycomb structures. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many types of structures are within range.

Method 100 may be initiated in optional step 102 by stacking the first component 210 with one or more components. For example, the first component 210 may be stacked with the second component 220, as shown in FIG. 2A. The first component 210 may be a carbon fiber reinforced polymer component, while the second component 220 may be a metal component, or more specifically a titanium component.

In some embodiments, the stack 200 may include three or more parts, eg, as shown in FIG. 3B. For example, the first component 210 may be a carbon fiber reinforced polymer component, while the second component 220 may be a metal component and the third component 270 may be another metal component. .. In this embodiment, the cavity 212 that receives the thermosetting material 250 can be prepared in the first part 210 that is placed between the second part 220 and the third part 270.

3D and 3E show another example of a stack 200 in which the first component 210 has a honeycomb type structure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other types of porous structures and structures with internal cavities are also within range. The first part 210 is arranged between the second part 220 and the third part 230, but the third part may be a solid part. In this embodiment, the cavity 212 may be one cell of a honeycomb type structure (first structure 210 in this embodiment). An opening may be formed in the second component 220 to access the cavity 212, supply the thermosetting material 250, and further project the heating rod 310. In some embodiments, additional openings may be formed in the third component, for example, when the heating rod 310 projects through the entire stack 200, as shown in FIG. 3D. The thermosetting material 250 can fill the cells of the honeycomb type structure shown in FIGS. 3D and 3E. For example, the top sectional view of FIG. 3E shows that the contour of this cell is hexagonal. In other words, the cavity 212 of this embodiment is a hexagonal prism extending through the entire thickness of the first component 210. Other cross-sectional shapes of the cavity 212, such as circles and rectangles, are also within range. It should be noted that the cross-sectional shapes of the cavity 212 and the heating rod 310 can be different. Therefore, the wall thickness of the thermosetting material 250 may differ, for example, as shown in FIG. 3E. In another aspect, for example, when the cavity 212 and the heating rod 310 both have the same cross-sectional shape and are concentrically arranged, the wall thickness of the thermosetting material 250 can be uniform.

With reference to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3D and 3E, the first component 210 comprises a plurality of cavities, eg, a plurality of cells of a honeycomb structure, and one of these cavities (in the exemplary embodiment). Note that only one or a selected group of these cavities can be filled with the thermosetting material 250. One or more cavities may define the distribution of the thermosetting material 250 of the first component 210.

In some embodiments, the cavity 212 may have an irregular shape. For example, the first part 210 may be made of a porous material, and the cavity 212 is formed through the first part 210 or is defined within the first part 210 (eg, honeycomb structure). When one or more cells are identified), some pores are contained within the cavity 212 or are at least open to the thermosetting material 250 and flow into these pores. There is.

In such an embodiment of the stack 200, at least one component 210 may include a cavity 212 that later receives the thermosetting material 250. In some embodiments, the thermosetting material 250 is placed within a plurality of cavities of the various components forming the stack. For example, FIG. 4A shows a thermosetting material 250 that is placed in the cavity 222 of the second component 220 in addition to the cavity 212 of the first component 210. In another aspect, the thermosetting material 250 may be limited to a single portion within the stack, eg, the cavity 212 of the first component 210. In this embodiment, the thermosetting material 250 cannot be squeezed out to other parts. In other words, the cavity 222 of the second part 220 stacked on the first part 210 can stay away from the thermosetting material 250, for example as shown in FIGS. 2C to 2G. In this embodiment, the cavity 222 of the second component 220 can be used to access the cavity 212 of the second component 210, for example, such as protrusion of the heating rod 310, supply of the thermosetting material 250.

In some embodiments, method 100 comprises forming a cavity 212 in the first component 210 in an optional step 104. The cavity 212 of the first component 210 may be formed during the formation of the first component 210 (eg, the formation of a honeycomb structure) or may be formed using subsequent machining operations such as drilling, milling, etc. You may. When steps 102 and 104 are performed together, step 104 may be performed before or after step 102. In other words, the cavity 212 may be formed before or after stacking the first component 210 on the second component 220.

Method 100 may be initiated by the thermal coupling of the heating rod 310 to the thermosetting material 250 in step 106. For example, the thermal coupling step 106 comprises inserting the heating rod 310 into the cavity 212 of the first component 210 in step 110 and applying the thermosetting material 250 to the cavity 212 in step 120. sell. In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the heating rod 310 projects through the cavity 212 of the first component 210. Once the heating rod 310 has fully protruded through the first component 210, the heating rod 310 can be used to apply a compressive force 218 to the first component 210, as schematically shown in FIG. 2A. For example, the heating rod 310 may be coupled to a first support 320 and a second support 330 located on different sides of the first component 210. As further described below with reference to FIGS. 5B and 5C, the first support 320 and the second support 330 slide toward each other to apply compressive force to the first component 210. Can be done. This compressive force is transmitted, at least in part, to the thermosetting material 250, allowing the thermosetting material 250 to flow through the pores and other openings surrounding the cavity 212.

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the heating rod 310 may project through a second component 220 stacked on the first component 210. In this embodiment, the two parts 210 and 220 can be compressed together by the heating rod 310, as schematically shown in FIG. 2E.

In another embodiment, for example, as shown in FIG. 3C, the heating rod 310 may project into the cavity 212 without projecting through the first component 210. For example, the cavity 212 may be a blind hole. In this embodiment, the heating rod 310 can be sealed and compressed with respect to the first component 210 using external means.

In some embodiments, inserting the heating rod 310 into the cavity 212 of the first component 210 in step 110 also seals at least one end of the cavity 212, eg, as shown in FIG. 2B. Including that. For example, the first support 320 of the curing system 300 may come into contact with the first component 210, thereby sealing one end of the cavity 212. When the thermosetting material 250 is later applied to the cavity 212, this seal may be used to prevent the thermosetting material 250 from leaking out of the cavity 212. When the cavity 212 is a through hole, both ends may be sealed by a support of the curing system 300 or by a component surrounding the first component 210.

In some embodiments, the method 100 further comprises placing the bearing cylinder 240 on the heating rod 310 in an optional step 116. When the method 100 is completed, the bearing cylinder 240 can be adhered to the first component 210 by the thermosetting material 250. In other words, the bearing cylinder 240 may remain in the stack 200. In another aspect, the bearing cylinder 240 may be removed from the stack 200 (eg, when removing the heating rod 310 or after some time). The bearing cylinder 240 may be formed of a heat conductive material, which may provide a uniform heat distribution to the thermosetting material 250 and may conduct heat from the heating rod 310 to the thermosetting material 250.

For example, as schematically shown in FIG. 2J, the bearing cylinder 240 may be placed on the heating rod 310 before the heating rod 310 is inserted into the cavity 212. In other words, step 116 may be performed prior to step 110. In another embodiment, for example, the bearing cylinder 240 may be placed on the heating rod 310 after inserting the heating rod 310 into the cavity 212, as schematically shown in FIGS. 2B-2C. In this case, step 116 is executed after step 110. The bearing cylinder 240 is optional and is to centralize the heating rod 310 with respect to the stack 210 and / or thermally / mechanically separate (eg, seal the thermosetting material 250 in the cavity 212). ) Can be used to. Separation is achieved, for example, when the bearing cylinder 240 is placed in a fitting part (eg, second part 220) above, below, or both of the cavity 212 of the first part 210. .. The first component 210 may be a laminated composite structure to be repaired. In some embodiments, the bearing cylinder 240 is not used.

When the bearing cylinder 240 is used, for example, as shown in FIGS. 2D-2F, the bearing cylinder 240 may be arranged between the heating rod 310 and the thermosetting material 250. Note that the bearing cylinder is not part of the heating rod 310 or the curing system 300. In some embodiments, the bearing cylinder 240 is not used and the thermosetting material 250 is in direct contact with the heating rod 310, as schematically shown in FIG. 4A and as further described below. May be good.

Method 100 may include applying the thermosetting material 250 to the cavity 212 of the first component 210 in step 120. For example, the thermosetting material 250 can be injected into the cavity 212 using a syringe or other similar means. The thermosetting material 250 can be selected from the group consisting of implantable resins and adhesives. Other thermosetting materials are also in range.

Note that the heating rod 310 may be inserted into the cavity 212 prior to applying the thermosetting material 250 to the cavity 212. In other words, step 110 is performed before step 120. The sequence of this process is shown in FIGS. 2B to 2C. In this embodiment, the heating rod 310 or more generally the curing system 300 may be used to seal at least one end of the cavity 212, until the thermosetting material 250 is cured. , Prevents the thermosetting material 250 from leaking out of the cavity 212. For example, when the thermosetting material 250 expands on heating or is tucked into a small opening around the cavity 212, the seal can prevent leakage and help apply external forces to the first component 210. Moreover, the movement of the thermosetting material 250 between different parts (eg, first part 210 and second part 220) encloses the thermosetting material in the cavity 212 of the first part 210. Can be avoided by. Ultimately, the thermosetting material 250 may change its viscosity throughout the curing process, making it easier to flow out of the cavity 212.

In another aspect, the heating rod 310 may be inserted into the cavity 212 after the thermosetting material 250 has been applied to the cavity 212. In other words, step 110 is performed after step 120. In this embodiment, the heating rod 310 may project through the thermosetting material 250 in the cavity 212 while being inserted into the cavity 212. This sequence of steps can be used, for example, to further disperse the thermosetting material 250 within the cavity 212.

Further, the heating rod 310 may be inserted into the cavity 212 while the thermosetting material 250 is applied to the cavity 212. For example, the thermosetting material 250 may be placed around the heating rod 310 prior to inserting the heating rod 310 into the cavity. When the heating rod 310 is inserted into the cavity, the heating rod 310 may carry the thermosetting material 250. In this example, the thermosetting material 250 may have a high viscosity and may be solid. The thermosetting material 250 may also be redistributed into the cavity 212, for example, while conducting heat from the heating rod 310 to the thermosetting material 250. For example, heating the thermosetting material 250 reduces the viscosity and assists in the redistribution of the thermosetting material 250. For example, the thermosetting material 250 is heated, and when the viscosity decreases, it becomes easy to flow.

Method 100 may be initiated by heat conduction to the thermosetting material 250 in step 130. As a result of this heat conduction, the thermosetting material 250 cures inside the cavity 132, as shown in block 132 of FIG. At the time of heat conduction, the thermosetting material 250 is thermally connected to at least a part 310a of the heating rod 310 arranged in the cavity 212 to supply heat to the thermosetting material 250. This thermal connection can be established, for example, by the thermosetting material 250 in direct contact with the heating rod 310, as shown in FIGS. 4A-4B. For example, the thermosetting material 250 may come into direct contact with the coating 315 or sleeve 316 of the heating rod 310. In this embodiment, the coating 315 or sleeve 316 may be releasable with respect to the thermosetting material 250. The various components of the heating rod 310 are described below with reference to FIGS. 6A-6D. In another embodiment, the thermal connection is established by a heat conductive component disposed between the thermosetting material 250 and the heating rod 310, such as the bearing cylinder 240 schematically shown in FIGS. 2D-2F. Can be done.

When heat is conducted from the heating rod 310 to the thermosetting material 250, the temperature of the thermosetting material 250 ranges from about 150 ° F to 250 ° F, or more specifically from about 175 ° F to 225. It can rise to between ° F. This temperature may depend on the curing requirements of the thermosetting material 250 as well as the temperature limits of the surrounding components. This heating time may also depend on the curing requirements of the thermosetting material 250 as well as other factors. Various temperature profiles can be used to cure the thermosetting material 250. Such a temperature profile may require the heat from the heating rod 310 to be conducted to the thermosetting material 250 over a period of time. The thermal conductivity changes over time and can be controlled based on temperature feedback and other factors, as further described below.

In some embodiments, the heat conduction to the thermosetting material 250 in step 130 is at least one of the heating rods 310 thermally coupled to the thermosetting material 250, as shown in block 131 of FIG. Includes heating part 310a. This heating may be selective heating so that at least another portion 310b (see FIG. 2F) of the heating rod 310 is not heated. The other portion 310b may be separated from the thermosetting material 250 and it may not be desirable to heat the second component 220 in the vicinity of the other portion 310b. In this way, only the selected portion 310a of the heating rod 310 disposed in the vicinity of the thermosetting material 250 is heated. As further described below with reference to FIG. 6C, the heating rod 310 may include a heating element 314 extending only to a portion 310a of its length 312c. This portion 310a is thermally coupled to the thermosetting material 250, while the other portion of the heating rod 310 may extend beyond the boundaries of the thermosetting material 250.

In some embodiments, the heating of the heating rod 310 (block 131 in FIG. 1) may be resistance heating (block 134 in FIG. 1). In these embodiments, the heating 131 may include applying a voltage to the resistance heating element 314 of the heating rod 310. This voltage can change over time depending on various factors further described below.

In some embodiments, heat conduction to the thermosetting material 250 is performed while monitoring the temperature of the thermosetting material 250 (block 136 in FIG. 1). For example, monitoring the temperature of the curable material 250 can be performed using the heating rod 310. More specifically, it may include a heating rod 310 thermocouple 319. Various aspects of the heating rod 310 are further described below with reference to FIGS. 6A-6D. The temperature output of the thermocouple 319 is used to control the amount of heat generated by the heating rod 310.

In some embodiments, the heating rod 310 comprises a phase change material 313, as further described below with reference to FIG. In these embodiments, conducting heat to the thermosetting material 250 in step 130 may include changing the phase of the phase changing material 313 (see block 138 in FIG. 1). This phase change phenomenon can be used for temperature control of the thermosetting material 250. For example, the thermosetting material 250 can be cured at a phase change temperature. In other words, the phase change material 313 is selected so that its phase change temperature matches the cure temperature of the thermosetting material 250. Thus, at least the outer surface of the heating rod 310 reaches this phase change temperature, stays at this temperature until all of the phase change materials 313 change their phase, and the curing temperature remains constant until the thermosetting material 250 cures. Keep in. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this phase change of the thermosetting material 250 allows the phase change material 313 to absorb and release heat while maintaining a constant temperature.

In some embodiments, method 100 comprises cooling one or more components in optional step 139. For example, a portion of the first component 210, or a portion of the second component 220 stacked on the first component 210, may be cooled while conducting heat to the thermosetting material 250 in step 130. In other words, step 139 can be part of step 130, as reflected in FIG. This cooling is used to ensure that other components in the vicinity of the thermosetting material 250 remain at a temperature below, for example, the temperature required to cure the thermosetting material 250. Cooling can be performed using a portion of the heating rod 310, as further described below with reference to FIG. 6C. In the same or other embodiments, cooling may be performed using components outside the stack.

Method 100 may also include removing the heating rod 310 from the cavity 212 in an optional step 140. An example of the stack 200 after removing the heating rod 310 is schematically shown in FIG. 2G. The thermosetting material 250 is cured at this stage of method 100. If the bearing cylinder 240 is used, the bearing cylinder 240 may remain in the stack 200. FIG. 2G also shows an additional bearing cylinder 242 inserted into the cavity 222 of the second component 220. The space already occupied by the heating rod 310 can be used for attaching fasteners or for other purposes, as further described below.

In some embodiments, the heating rod 310 includes a sleeve 316 disposed on the enclosure 312 of the heating rod 310. Various aspects of the sleeve 316 are described with reference to FIG. 6A. As schematically shown in FIG. 2I, after removing the heating rod 310 from the cavity 212 in step 140, the sleeve 316 may be held in the cavity. For example, the sleeve 316 can be used to simplify the removal step 140. In some embodiments, the friction between the sleeve 316 and the enclosure 312 can be less than the friction between the sleeve 316 and the thermosetting material 250, but the thermosetting material 250 cures at this point. ing. In some embodiments, method 100 may include removing the sleeve 316 from the cavity 212 in step 150. Since additional space is available within the sleeve 316, the sleeve 316 can be easily removed from the cavity 212 after removing the heating rod 310. In another aspect, the sleeve 316 is held in the cavity 212 and can be part of the stack 200 together with the first component 210.

In some embodiments, after removing the heating rod 310 from the cavity 212, method 100 may be initiated with the attachment of the fastener 260 to the cavity 212 of the first component 210 in optional step 160. FIG. 2H is a schematic view of the stack 200 after mounting the fastener 260 through the space occupied by the heating rod 310. The fastener 260 extends through the first part 210 and the second part 220, and in some embodiments compresses both the parts 210 and 220. Some examples of fastener 260 include, but are not limited to, rivets, bolts, inserts, or fastener devices / mechanisms.

System Example FIG. 5A is an example of a curing system 300 including a heating rod 310, a first support 320, and a second support 330. The first support 320 engages the enclosure 312 of the heating rod 310. The second support 330 also engages the enclosure 312 of the heating rod 310. For example, as schematically shown in FIGS. 5B and 5C, the second support 330 may be movable between the first end 312a and the second end 312b of the enclosure 312, while the second support 330 may be movable. It may continuously engage the enclosure 312 of the heating rod 310. In some embodiments, the first support 320 and the second support 330 are movable. This movement may be used to seal the first component 210 and, in some embodiments, may be used to compress the first component 210 against, for example, the second component 220. .. The compressive force 218 can be generated by mechanical means, pneumatic means, hydraulic means, or the like. For example, the second support 330 may include a nut 332, which may be coupled to the enclosure 312 of the heating rod 310. In some embodiments, a second support 330 also includes an insulating material 333 and a washer 331. For example, the washer 331 can be pressed against the component by the nut 332.

FIG. 6A shows the internal components of the heating rod 310. For example, the heating rod 310 may include an enclosure 312 that encloses the heating element 314 and the heating element 314. The heating rod 310 may include a first lead wire 318a connected to the heating element 314 and a second lead wire 318b connected to the heating element 314. The heating element 314 of the heating rod 310 may be a resistance heating element. The first conductor 318a and the second conductor 318b connected to the heating element 314 are used to apply a voltage to the heating element 314, whereby a current can be passed through the heating element 314.

In some embodiments, for example, as schematically shown in FIG. 6A, the first conductor 318a extends from the first end 312a of the enclosure 312, while the second conductor 318b is the first end. It extends from the second end 312b of the enclosure 312, which is different from the portion 312a. In another embodiment, for example, as schematically shown in FIG. 6A, both the first conductor 318a and the second conductor 318b extend from the same end, eg, from the first end 312a of the enclosure 312. ..

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 6A, the curing system 300 also comprises a thermocouple 319. The thermocouple 319 can be used to measure the temperature of the enclosure 312. The output of the thermocouple 319 can be used to control the power supplied to the heating element 314 of the heating rod 310. For example, the curing system 300 may also include a system controller 340, as shown in FIG. 6A. The system controller 340 is communicably connected to the thermocouple 319. More specifically, the output of the thermocouple is received by the system controller 340. This output is used by the system controller 340 to determine the power supplied to the heating element 314. As shown in FIG. 6A, the system controller 340 is communicably connected to the power source 350, which is connected to the first conductor 318a and the second conductor 318b. The system controller 340 may indicate the power source 350 with respect to the power level supplied to the heating element 314 via the first conductor 318a and the second conductor 318b.

In some embodiments, for example, as shown in FIG. 6A, the heating rod 310 also comprises a sleeve 316 disposed on top of the enclosure 312. Enclosure 312 and sleeve 316 contain different materials. For example, the sleeve 316 may include a polymer 316a, such as a fluorinated polymer 316b. Enclosure 312 may be metal. The sleeve 316 may be movable and may move smoothly with respect to the enclosure 312 when the heating rod 310 is removed from the cavity 212 after the thermosetting material 250 has hardened.

In some embodiments, the heating rod 310 may include a coating 316 placed on top of the enclosure 312, for example, as schematically shown in FIG. 6B. The enclosure 312 and the coating 315 may contain different materials. In some embodiments, the coating 315 is used in addition to the sleeve 316, for example to assist in the removal of the sleeve 316. In another aspect, the coating 315 can be used in place of the sleeve 316.

The heating element 314 can extend to less than 75% of the length 312c of the enclosure 232, more specifically to less than 50% of the length 312c, as schematically shown in FIG. 6C. This embodiment is useful for selective heating. For example, the position and dimensions of the heating element 314 may correspond to a portion 310a of the heating rod 310 thermally coupled to the thermosetting material 250. In this way, not all parts of the heating rod 310 are heated. In some embodiments, the heating element 314 of the heating rod 310 is a resistance heating element 314'.

In some embodiments, the curing system 300 comprises a phase change material 313. For example, as schematically shown in FIG. 6D, the phase change material 313 may be placed within the enclosure 312. As mentioned above, the phase change material 313 is useful for temperature control when the heat from the heating rod 310 is conducted to the thermosetting material 250.

In some embodiments, the heating rod 310 further comprises a cooling element 317. For example, as schematically shown in FIG. 6C, the cooling element 317 may be located within the enclosure 312. The position and dimensions of the cooling element 317 may be selected based on one or more components thermally coupled to the heating rod 310, but these components may not be thermally stable.

Examples of Aircraft and Methods of Manufacturing and Operating Aircraft The embodiments of the present disclosure may be described in the light of the aircraft manufacturing and maintenance method 1100 shown in FIG. 7 and the aircraft 1102 shown in FIG. In the pre-manufacturing stage, the exemplary method 1100 may include aircraft 1102 specifications and design (block 1104) and material procurement (block 1106). At the manufacturing stage, components and subassemblies of aircraft 1102 may be manufactured (block 1108) and inspection system integration (block 1110) may be performed. The methods and systems described above formed by these methods, such as the method of curing thermocurable materials in cavities, include aircraft 1102 specifications and design (block 1104), material procurement (block 1106), components and subassemblies. Can be used in either the manufacture of (block 1108) and / or the inspection system integration of aircraft 1102 (block 1110).

The aircraft 1102 can then be put into service (block 1114) after approval and delivery (block 1112). During operation, aircraft 1102 may be scheduled for regular maintenance and maintenance (block 1116). Periodic maintenance and maintenance may include modification, reconfiguration, refurbishment, etc. of one or more inspection systems of aircraft 1102. The methods and systems described above formed by these methods, such as the method of curing thermosetting materials in cavities, are licensed and delivered (block 1112), operated (block 1114), and / or regular maintenance and maintenance. It can be used in any of (block 1116).

Each process of exemplary method 1100 may be performed or performed by an inspection system integrator, a third party, and / or an operator (eg, a customer). For the purposes of this specification, the inspection system integrator may include, but is not limited to, any number of aircraft manufacturers and major inspection system subcontractors, including, but not limited to, any third party. It may include a number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers, and the operator may be an airline, a leasing company, a military organization, a service agency, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 8, aircraft 1102 manufactured by exemplary method 1100 can include airframe 1118 with multiple high level systems 1120 and interior 1122. Examples of high-level inspection systems 1120 include one or more of propulsion inspection systems 1124, electrical inspection systems 1126, hydraulic inspection systems 1128, and environmental inspection systems 1130. Any number of other inspection systems may be included. Although the example of the aerospace industry is shown, the principles disclosed in this document can be applied to other industries such as the automobile industry. Therefore, the principles disclosed herein can be applied to aircraft 1102 as well as other vehicles such as land vehicles, marine vehicles, space vehicles, and the like.

The appliances and methods shown and described herein can be used at any one or more stages of manufacturing and maintenance method 1100. For example, the components or subassemblies corresponding to the manufacture of components and subassemblies (block 1108) can be made or manufactured in the same manner as the components or subassemblies manufactured during the operation of aircraft 1102 (block 1114). Also, one or more embodiments of the device, method or combination thereof may include, for example, by substantially streamlining the assembly of aircraft 1102 or reducing its cost in the manufacturing stages (blocks 1108 and 1110). ) Can be used. Similarly, one or more embodiments of the device or method implementation, or combinations thereof, are, but are not limited to, during the operation of aircraft 1102 (block 1114) and / or maintenance and maintenance (block). It can be used during 1116).

CONCLUSIONS The various embodiments of the devices and methods disclosed herein include a wide variety of components, features and functions. Various embodiments of the devices and methods disclosed herein may include any component, feature and function in any other embodiment of the device and method disclosed herein, in any combination. Also, please understand that all of these possibilities are intended to be included in the nature and scope of this disclosure.

Utilizing the above description and the teachings presented in the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art relating to this disclosure will be reminded of numerous modifications of the examples specified in this document.

Therefore, in summary, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the following is presented.

A1. A method (100) for curing a thermosetting material (250) in a cavity (212) of a first component (210).
Thermally connecting the heating rod (310) and the thermosetting material (250) disposed in the cavity (212).
While the thermosetting material (250) is placed in the cavity (212) and thermally coupled to the heating rod (310), the heat from the heating rod (310) is thermosetting. A method comprising conducting to a material (250).

A2. The method (100) according to paragraph A1 is also provided, wherein the heat from the heating rod (310) is conducted to the thermosetting material (250) to cure the thermosetting material (250).

A3. Thermally connecting the heating rod (310) and the thermosetting material (250)
Also provided is the method (100) according to paragraph A1, comprising inserting the heating rod (310) into the cavity (212) and applying the thermosetting material (250) to the cavity (212). Will be done.

A4. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A3, wherein the heating rod (310) is inserted into the cavity (212) prior to applying the thermosetting material (250) to the cavity (212). To.

A5. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A3, wherein the heating rod (310) is inserted into the cavity (212) after the thermosetting material (250) has been applied to the cavity (212). ..

A6. Conducting heat from the heating rod (310) to the thermosetting material (250) is at least a portion of the heating rod (310) thermally coupled to the thermosetting material (250). The method (100) according to paragraph A1, which comprises heating 230a), is also provided.

A7. The method (100) of paragraph A6 is also provided, wherein heating at least a portion (230a) of the heating rod (310) comprises resistance heating.

A8. The method (100) according to paragraph A7, wherein the additional portion (230b) of the heating rod (310) is not heated and the additional portion (230b) is not thermally coupled to the thermosetting material (250). Is also provided.

A9. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A8, wherein the additional portion (230b) of the heating rod (310) is cooled.

A10. A part of the first part (210) or a part of a second part (220) stacked on the first part (210) while conducting heat to the thermosetting material (250). Also provided is the method (100) according to paragraph A1, further comprising cooling.

A11. A portion of the first component (210) or stacked on the first component (210) while conducting heat to the thermosetting material (250) using the heating rod (310). Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A10, wherein cooling a portion of the second component (220) is performed.

A12. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A1, wherein conduction of heat to the thermosetting material (250) is performed while monitoring the temperature of the thermosetting material (250).

A13. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A12, wherein monitoring the temperature of the thermosetting material (250) is performed using the heating rod (310).

A14. The method (100) of paragraph A13, wherein the heating rod (310) comprises a thermocouple is also provided.

A15. While the heat from the heating rod (310) is conducted to the thermosetting material (250), the phase (313') of the phase changing material (313) arranged in the heating rod (310) is changed. The method (100) according to paragraph A1 is also provided, which further comprises controlling the temperature of the thermosetting material (250).

A16. The method of paragraph A1, wherein the thermosetting material (250) is sealed in the cavity (212) while the heat from the heating rod (310) is conducted to the thermosetting material (250). (100) is also provided.

A17. The method of paragraph A1, wherein the thermosetting material (250) is in direct contact with the heating rod (310) while the heat from the heating rod (310) is conducted to the thermosetting material (250). (100) is also provided.

A18. The method (100) of paragraph A1 is also provided, wherein the heating rod (310) comprises a heating element (314) and an enclosure (312) that encloses the heating element (314).

A19. The method of paragraph A18, wherein the heating rod (310) further comprises a coating (315) disposed on the enclosure (312), wherein the enclosure (312) and the sleeve (315) contain different materials. (100) is also provided.

A20. The method of paragraph A18, wherein the heating rod (310) further comprises a sleeve (316) disposed on the enclosure (312), wherein the enclosure (312) and the sleeve (316) contain different materials. (100) is also provided.

A21. The method (100) of paragraph A20, wherein the sleeve (316) comprises a polymer, is also provided.

A22. The method (100) according to paragraph A21, wherein the polymer of the sleeve (316) is a fluorinated polymer, is also provided.

A23. Further comprising removing the heating rod (310) from the cavity (212) after the thermosetting material (250) has hardened, and after removing the heating rod (310) from the cavity (212), said Also provided is the method (100) according to paragraph A20, wherein the sleeve (316) is held in the cavity (212).

A24. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A23, further comprising removing the sleeve (316) from the cavity (212).

A25. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A18, wherein the heating element (314) of the heating rod (310) is connected to a first conductor (318a) and a second conductor (318b).

A26. The first conductor (318a) extends from the first end (312a) of the enclosure (312), and the second conductor (318b) is different from the first end (312a) of the enclosure (312a). Also provided is the method (100) according to paragraph A25, which extends from the second end (312b) of 312).

A27. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A25, wherein both the first conductor (318a) and the second conductor (318b) extend from the first end (312a) of the enclosure (312). ..

A28. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A18, wherein the heating element (314) extends to less than 75% of the length of the enclosure (312).

A29. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A1, wherein the heating rod (310) projects from the first component (210).

A30. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A29, wherein the heating rod (310) applies a compressive force to the first component (210).

A31. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A30, wherein the heating rod (310) projects through a second component (220) stacked on the first component (210).

A32. The method of paragraph A31, wherein the first part (210) is porous and the second part (220) seals the thermosetting material (250) in the first part (210). (100) is also provided.

A33. The method (100) according to paragraph A32, wherein the first component (210) has a honeycomb structure and the cavity (212) is a pore in the honeycomb structure is also provided.

A34. The method of paragraph A31, wherein the additional portion of the heating rod (310) projecting through the second component (220) while conducting heat to the thermosetting material (250) does not generate heat. (100) is also provided.

A35. The method (100) according to paragraph A1, further comprising placing a bearing tube on a heating rod, wherein the bearing tube is adhered to the first component (210) by the thermosetting material (250). Is also provided.

A36. When the heating rod (310) is thermally coupled to the thermosetting material (250), the bearing cylinder is attached to the heating rod before inserting the heating rod (310) into the cavity (212). The method (100) according to paragraph A35, which is arranged above, is also provided.

A37. When the heating rod (310) is thermally coupled to the thermosetting material (250), after inserting the heating rod (310) into the cavity (212), the bearing cylinder is placed on the heating rod. Also provided is the method (100) according to paragraph A35, which is arranged in.

A38. When the heating rod (310) was thermally coupled to the thermosetting material (250), the thermosetting material (250) was applied to the cavity (212) of the first component (210). Later, the method (100) of paragraph A35, wherein the bearing tube is placed on the heating rod, is also provided.

A39. When the heating rod (310) is thermally coupled to the thermosetting material (250), the thermosetting material (250) is applied to the cavity (212) of the first component (210). Previously, the method (100) of paragraph A35, wherein the bearing tube is placed on the heating rod, is also provided.

A40. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A1, wherein the cavity (212) of the first component (210) is a through hole.

A41. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A1, wherein the cavity (212) of the first component (210) is a blind hole.

A42. The method (100) according to paragraph A1 is also provided, wherein the thermosetting material (250) is selected from the group consisting of an embedding resin and an adhesive.

A43. The method (100) according to paragraph A1, wherein the first component (210) comprises a carbon fiber reinforced polymer is also provided.

A44. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A1, wherein the thermosetting material (250) is heated to about 150 ° F to 250 ° F while being cured in the cavity (212).

A45. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph A1, further comprising removing the heating rod (310) from the cavity (212) after the thermosetting material (250) has hardened.

A46. The method (100) according to paragraph A45, further comprising attaching a fastener to the cavity (212) of the first component (210) after removing the heating rod (310) from the cavity (212). Provided.

A47. Also provided is the method (100) according to paragraph A1, further comprising forming the cavity (212) in the first component (210).

B1. A method (100) for curing a thermosetting material (250) in a cavity (212) of a first component (210).
Thermally connecting the heating rod (310) and the thermosetting material (250) arranged in the cavity (212),
A method comprising changing the phase (313') of a phase changing material (313) disposed in the cavity (212).

B2. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph B1, wherein changing the phase (313') of the phase changing material (313) is performed at the curing temperature of the thermosetting material (250).

B3. Changing the phase (313') of the phase changing material (313) placed in the cavity (212) is such that the thermosetting material (250) is placed in the cavity (212). Also provided is the method (100) according to paragraph B1, which is part of conducting heat from the heating rod (310) to the thermosetting material (250).

B4. The method (100) of paragraph B3 is also provided in which conduction of heat from the heating rod (310) to the thermosetting material (250) cures the thermosetting material (250).

B5. Thermally connecting the heating rod (310) and the thermosetting material (250) arranged in the cavity (212) is to insert the heating rod (310) into the cavity (212). , And the method (100) according to paragraph B1, comprising applying the thermosetting material (250) to the cavity (212).

B6. Changing the phase (313') of the phase changing material (313) means heating at least a portion of the heating rod (310) thermally coupled to the thermosetting material (250). Also provided is the method (100) described in paragraph B1, including.

B7. While changing the phase (313') of the phase changing material (313), a part of the first part (210) or a second part (220) stacked on the first part (210). ) Is also provided, according to paragraph B1, further comprising cooling a portion of.

B8. While changing the phase (313') of the phase changing material (313), the thermosetting material (250) is sealed in the cavity (212) of the first component (210), paragraph. The method (100) according to B1 is also provided.

B9. The method (100) according to paragraph B1, wherein the thermosetting material (250) is in direct contact with the heating rod (310) while the phase (313') of the phase changing material (313) is being changed. Provided.

B10. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph B1, wherein the heating rod (310) projects from the first component (210).

B11. The method (100) according to paragraph B1, wherein the thermosetting material (250) is selected from the group consisting of an embedding resin and an adhesive, is also provided.

B12. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph B1, further comprising removing the heating rod (310) from the cavity (212) after the thermosetting material (250) has hardened.

B13. The method (100) according to paragraph B12, further comprising attaching a fastener to the cavity (212) of the first component (210) after removing the heating rod (310) from the cavity (212). Provided.

C1. A curing system for curing a thermosetting material (250) in a cavity (212).
Heating element (314),
An enclosure (312) that encloses the heating element (314),
A first conductor (318a) connected to the heating element (314) and a second conductor (318b) connected to the heating element (314).
A heating rod (310) comprising, and a first support (320) that engages the enclosure (312) of the heating rod (310).
A second support (330) that engages the enclosure (312) of the heating rod (310) is provided.
While the heating rod (310) is continuously engaged with the enclosure (312), the second support (330) has a first end (312a) and a second end of the enclosure (312). Movable curing system with (312b).

C2. The curing system according to paragraph C1, wherein the heating element (314) of the heating rod (310) is a resistance heating element (314) is also provided.

C3. The curing system described in paragraph C1 is also provided, wherein the heating element (314) extends to less than 75% of the length of the enclosure (312).

C4. The first conductor (318a) extends from the first end (312a) of the enclosure (312), and the second conductor (318b) is different from the first end (312a) of the enclosure (312a). Also provided is the curing system described in paragraph C1, extending from the second end (312b) of 312).

C5. Also provided is the curing system of paragraph C1, wherein both the first conductor (318a) and the second conductor (318b) extend from the first end (312a) of the enclosure (312).

C6. The curing system described in paragraph C1 is also provided, further comprising a thermocouple for measuring the temperature of the enclosure (312).

C7. The curing system according to paragraph C1 is also provided, further comprising a system controller (340) for controlling the power supplied to the heating element (314) of the heating rod (310).

C8. The curing system of paragraph C1 is also provided, further comprising a phase change material (313) disposed within the enclosure (312).

C9. The curing system described in paragraph C8 is also provided, wherein the phase change temperature of the phase change material (313) corresponds to the cure temperature of the thermosetting material (250).

C10. The first support (320) and the second support (330) are configured to seal the thermosetting material (250) in the cavity (212), according to paragraph C1. A curing system is also provided.

C11. The curing according to paragraph C1, wherein the heating rod (310) further comprises a sleeve (316) disposed on the enclosure (312), wherein the enclosure (312) and the sleeve (316) contain different materials. A system is also provided.

C12. The curing system described in paragraph C11 is also provided, wherein the sleeve (316) comprises a polymer (316a).

C13. The curing system of paragraph C12, wherein the polymer of the sleeve (316) is a fluorinated polymer (316b), is also provided.

C14. The curing system described in paragraph C12, wherein the sleeve (316) is removable, is also provided.

C15. The curing according to paragraph C1, wherein the heating rod (310) further comprises a coating (315) disposed on the enclosure (312), wherein the enclosure (312) and the coating (315) contain different materials. A system is also provided.

C16. The curing system according to paragraph C1 is also provided, wherein the heating rod (310) further comprises a cooling element (317) disposed within the enclosure (312).

D1. A method (100) for curing a thermosetting material (250) in a cavity (212) of a first component (210).
Thermally connecting the heating rod (310) and the thermosetting material (250) disposed in the cavity (212), and the phase change material (313) disposed in the cavity (212). Methods involving changing the phase.

D2. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph D1, wherein changing the phase of the phase changing material (313) is performed at the curing temperature of the thermosetting material (250).

D3. Changing the phase of the phase changing material (313) placed in the cavity (212) is the heating while the thermosetting material (250) is placed in the cavity (212). Also provided is the method (100) according to paragraph D1, which is part of conducting heat from the rod (310) to the thermosetting material (250).

D4. Conducting heat from the heating rod (310) to the thermosetting material (250) also provides the method (100) of paragraph D3, which cures the thermosetting material (250).

D5. Thermally connecting the heating rod (310) and the thermosetting material (250) arranged in the cavity (212) is to insert the heating rod (310) into the cavity (212). , And the method (100) according to paragraph D1, comprising applying the thermosetting material (250) to the cavity (212).

D6. Changing the phase of the phase changing material (313) comprises heating at least a portion of the heating rod (310) thermally coupled to the thermosetting material (250), paragraph D1. The method (100) described in 1 is also provided.

D7. A part of the first part (210) or a part of a second part (220) stacked on the first part (210) while changing the phase of the phase changing material (313). Also provided is the method (100) according to paragraph D1, further comprising cooling.

D8. Paragraph D1, wherein the thermosetting material (250) is sealed in the cavity (212) of the first component (210) while the phase of the phase changing material (313) is being changed. Method (100) is also provided.

D9. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph D1, wherein the thermosetting material (250) is in direct contact with the heating rod (310) while the phase of the phase changing material (313) is being changed.

D10. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph D1, wherein the heating rod (310) projects through the first component (210).

D11. The method (100) according to paragraph D1 is also provided, wherein the thermosetting material (250) is selected from the group consisting of an embedding resin and an adhesive.

D12. Also provided is the method (100) of paragraph D1, further comprising removing the heating rod (310) from the cavity (212) after the thermosetting material (250) has hardened.

D13. The method according to paragraph D12, further comprising attaching a fastener (260) to the cavity (212) of the first component (210) after removing the heating rod (310) from the cavity (212). 100) is also provided.

E1. A curing system (300) for curing a thermosetting material (250) in a cavity (212).
Heating element (314)
An enclosure (312) that encloses the heating element (314).
The first conductor (318a) connected to the heating element (314) and the second conductor (318b) connected to the heating element (314).
With a heating rod (310)
A first support (320) that engages the enclosure (312) of the heating rod (310) and
A second support (330) that engages the enclosure (312) of the heating rod (310) is provided.
While the heating rod (310) is continuously engaged with the enclosure (312), the second support (330) has a first end (312a) and a second end of the enclosure (312). Movable curing system with (312b).

E2. The curing system (300) according to paragraph E1 is also provided, wherein the heating element (314) of the heating rod (310) is a resistance heating element (314).

E3. Also provided is the curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, wherein the heating element (314) extends to less than 75% of the length of the enclosure (312).

E4. The first conductor (318a) extends from the first end (312a) of the enclosure (312), and the second conductor (318b) is different from the first end (312a) of the enclosure (312a). Also provided is the curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, which extends from the second end (312b) of 312).

E5. Also provided is the curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, wherein both the first conductor (318a) and the second conductor (318b) extend from the first end (312a) of the enclosure (312). To.

E6. Also provided is the curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, further comprising a thermocouple (319) for measuring the temperature of the enclosure (312).

E7. The curing system (300) according to paragraph E1 is also provided, further comprising a system controller (340) for controlling the power supplied to the heating element (314) of the heating rod (310).

E8. Also provided is the curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, further comprising a phase change material (313) disposed within the enclosure (312).

E9. The curing system (300) according to paragraph E8 is also provided, wherein the phase changing temperature of the phase changing material (313) corresponds to the curing temperature of the thermosetting material (250).

E10. The first support (320) and the second support (330) are configured to seal the thermosetting material (250) in the cavity (212), according to paragraph E1. A curing system (300) is also provided.

E11. The heating rod (310) further comprises a sleeve (316) disposed on the enclosure (312), wherein the enclosure (312) and the sleeve (316) contain different materials, according to paragraph E1. A curing system (300) is also provided.

E12. The curing system (300) according to paragraph E11, wherein the sleeve (316) comprises a polymer, is also provided.

E13. Also provided is the curing system (300) according to paragraph E12, wherein the polymer in the sleeve (316) is a fluorinated polymer.

E14. Also provided is the curing system (300) according to paragraph E12, wherein the sleeve (316) is removable.

E15. The cure according to paragraph E1, wherein the heating rod (310) further comprises a coating (315) disposed on the enclosure (312), wherein the enclosure (312) and the coating (315) contain different materials. A system (300) is also provided.

E16. The curing system (300) according to paragraph E1 is also provided, wherein the heating rod (310) comprises a cooling element (317) disposed within the enclosure (312).

Therefore, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular examples exemplified, and that modifications and other examples are intended to be included in the accompanying claims. Further, the above description and related drawings illustrate the examples of the present disclosure in the light of an exemplary combination of elements and / or functions, but without departing from the accompanying claims, alternatives. It should be recognized that different embodiments may provide different combinations of elements and / or functions. Therefore, the reference numbers in parentheses in the accompanying claims are presented for illustrative purposes only and limit the scope of the claimed subject matter to the particular examples provided within this disclosure. Not intended.

Claims (14)

A method of curing a thermosetting material in the cavity of the first component.
Thermally connecting the heating rod and the thermosetting material arranged in the cavity,
Conducting heat from the heating rod to the thermosetting material while the thermosetting material is placed in the cavity and thermally coupled to the heating rod , and.
Cooling a part of the first part or a part of the second part stacked with the first part while conducting heat to the thermosetting material.
How to include. A method of curing a thermosetting material in the cavity of the first component.
Thermally connecting the heating rod and the thermosetting material arranged in the cavity,
Conducting heat from the heating rod to the thermosetting material while the thermosetting material is placed in the cavity and thermally coupled to the heating rod, and.
Controlling the temperature of the thermosetting material by changing the phase of the phase changing material arranged in the heating rod while conducting heat from the heating rod to the thermosetting material.
How to include . The method according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the heat from the heating rod is conducted to the thermosetting material to cure the thermosetting material. Thermally connecting the heating rod and the thermosetting material
The method of claim 1 or 2 , comprising inserting the heating rod into the cavity and applying the thermosetting material to the cavity. Claim 1 or 2 , wherein conducting heat from the heating rod to the thermosetting material comprises heating at least a part of the heating rod thermally coupled to the thermosetting material. The method described. The method of claim 1 or 2 , wherein conduction of heat to the thermosetting material is performed while monitoring the temperature of the thermosetting material. The method according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the thermosetting material comes into direct contact with the heating rod while the heat from the heating rod is conducted to the thermosetting material. The method of claim 1 or 2 , wherein the heating rod comprises a heating element and an enclosure that encloses the heating element. A curing system for curing a thermosetting material (250) in a cavity (212).
Heating element (314) ,
An enclosure (312) that encloses the heating element (314) ,
A cooling element (317) arranged in the enclosure (312),
The first conductor (318a) connected to the heating element (314) and the second conductor (318b) connected to the heating element (314).
With a heating rod (310)
A first support (320) that engages the enclosure (312) of the heating rod (310) and
A second support (330) that engages the enclosure (312) of the heating rod (310) is provided.
While the heating rod (310) is continuously engaged with the enclosure (312), the second support (330) has a first end (312a) and a second end of the enclosure (312). Movable curing system with (312b). A curing system for curing a thermosetting material (250) in a cavity (212).
Heating element (314),
An enclosure (312) that encloses the heating element (314),
The first conductor (318a) connected to the heating element (314) and
A second conductor (318b) connected to the heating element (314).
With a heating rod (310)
A first support (320) that engages the enclosure (312) of the heating rod (310) and
A second support (330) that engages the enclosure (312) of the heating rod (310) while continuously engaging the enclosure (312) of the heating rod (310). A second support (330) that is movable between the first end (312a) and the second end (312b) of the enclosure (312).
A curing system comprising a phase change material (313) disposed within the enclosure (312). The curing system according to claim 10 , wherein the phase changing temperature of the phase changing material (313) corresponds to the curing temperature of the thermosetting material (250). The first support (320) and the second support (330) are configured to seal the thermosetting material (250) in the cavity (212), claim 9 or 10. The curing system described in. The heating rod (310) further comprises a sleeve (316) disposed on the enclosure (312), wherein the enclosure (312) and the sleeve (316) contain different materials, claim 9 or 10. The curing system described. The curing system according to claim 9 or 10, further comprising a system controller (340) for controlling the electric power supplied to the heating element (314) of the heating rod (310).

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