RU2736761C2 - Methods and systems for hardening materials inside cavities - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: technological processes.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to hardening of heat-curable materials located inside cavities, in particular, to hardening of sealing compounds with limited access to these materials, for example in panels for aerospace industry. Method comprises thermal connection of heating rod and material to be heat-curable, located inside said cavity, and transfer of heat from the heating rod to the material to be heat-curable, when the material to be heat-curable is located inside said cavity and has thermal connection to the heating rod, and cooling at least part of part with transfer of heat into heat-curable material. Also disclosed is a curing system for realizing the curing method.

EFFECT: high efficiency of means for hardening materials curable during heating and located inside cavities.

15 cl, 8 dwg

Description

[001] Curing heat-curable materials within cavities, such as sealing compounds in aerospace panels, can be difficult. The curing process often involves heating various surrounding components and / or disassembling and then reassembling those components. For example, the heat curable material may be positioned in a cavity of an inner component stacked between two outer components. To cure the heat curable material, at least one of the external components may be heated using an external heater, such as a heating cover. This approach is based on the transfer of heat through the external component to the heat-curable material. Otherwise, the external component does not need to be heated. Often, heating an external component can be undesirable, for example when that component may be damaged during curing. In addition, external heating can be slow, require a lot of thermal energy, and can cause heating of at least one other component (often many other components also heat up) besides the heat-curable material.

[002] In some cases, the heat transfer characteristics of other heated components may interfere with heat transfer. For example, components with good heat transfer characteristics can cause heat dissipation and can actually transfer heat away from the heat-curable material. This can cause unwanted heating of other components and / or insufficient cure of the heat curable material. In addition, various heated components can act as heat sinks requiring additional thermal energy, resulting in increased overall processing time and energy and reduced processing efficiency compared to direct heating of the heat curable material described herein. On the other hand, components with poor heat transfer characteristics can act as heat transfer barriers and block heat transfer to the heat-curable material.

[003] In addition, heating other components may be undesirable in some cases. For example, these components can be made from heat-sensitive materials and can change their characteristics (for example, melt or change the desired properties of heat treatment or change various properties of thermoplastic or thermosetting laminates by subsequent reheating after pre-curing) when attempts are made to cure the curable by heating. material. In general, there is a need for more efficient means for curing heat curable materials disposed within cavities.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[004] Methods are disclosed for heat curing various materials, such as heat curable materials or, in particular, sealing compounds located within the cavities of various parts with limited access to these materials. Also disclosed are curing systems for performing such methods. Curing is performed by internal heating, and in some embodiments, by direct heating of the heat-curable material. For example, a heat-curable material can be positioned within a cavity of the part and heated by a heating rod extending into the same cavity or even through said cavity. The part can be honeycomb or some other similar structure. At least a portion of the heating rod is thermally bonded to the heat-curable material, and this portion is used to transfer heat to the heat-curable material, thereby curing it. The heating element of the heating rod may be positioned such that the heat-curable material is selectively heated within the cavity without significantly heating other surrounding components. In some embodiments of the invention, the heating rod may also compress the part containing the heat-curable material within the cavity or in the stack containing the part. In addition, the heating rod may include a phase-to-phase material for adjusting the temperature of the heat-curable material.

[005] In some embodiments, a method of curing a heat-curable material within a cavity of a first part includes thermally bonding a heating rod and a heat-curable material located within the cavity, and transferring heat from the heating rod to the heat-curable material when the heat curable the material is located inside the specified cavity and is thermally connected to the heating rod. Transfer of heat from the heating rod to the heat-curable material can cure the heat-curable material. Thermally bonding the heating rod and the heat-curable material may include inserting the heating rod into said cavity and placing the heat-curable material in said cavity. In other words, after inserting the heating rod and applying the heat-curable material, the heat-curable material may be thermally connected to at least a portion of the heating rod within the cavity.

[006] A heating rod may be inserted into said cavity prior to placing the heat curable material in said cavity. In alternative embodiments of the invention, a heating rod may be inserted into said cavity after placing the heat-curable material in said cavity. In addition, the heating rod can be inserted into said cavity, thereby placing a heat-curable material in said cavity. For example, the heat curable material can be located on or around the heating rod prior to insertion of the heating rod into the cavity. When a heating rod is inserted into said cavity, the heating rod transfers the heat-curable material to said cavity.

[007] In some embodiments, transferring heat to the heat-curable material includes heating at least a portion of the heating rod that is thermally connected to the heat-curable material. For example, this heating can be resistive heating and can include energizing a resistive heating element located within the heating rod. In some embodiments, heat transfer to the heat curable material is performed while monitoring the temperature of the heat curable material. This tracking can be done using a heating rod, or in particular a heating rod thermocouple. In some embodiments, temperature feedback can be used to vary the amount of heat transferred to the heat-curable material, for example, by varying the voltage applied to the resistance heating element. In some embodiments of the invention, the additional portion of the heating rod is not heated. This additional part is not thermally bonded to the heat curable material. In some embodiments, the additional portion of the heating rod is cooled.

[008] In some embodiments, the method also includes cooling a portion of the first piece or a portion of the second piece stacked with the first piece while transferring heat to the heat-curable material. Cooling of said part of the first part or said part of the second part stacked with the first part is performed by transferring heat to the heat-curable material and using a heating rod.

[009] In some embodiments, the heating rod comprises a material capable of transitioning from one phase to another. In these embodiments, transferring heat to the heat-curable material may include changing the phase of the material capable of transition from one phase to another, thereby adjusting the temperature of the heat-curable material. For example, a heat curable material can be cured at the phase transition temperature of the material having the ability to transition from one phase to another.

[0010] In some embodiments, the heat-curable material is sealed within the cavity of the first part with heating, with at least said portion of the heating rod thermally bonding to the heat-curable material. The heat-curable material may be directly coupled to the heating rod, thereby transferring heat to the heat-curable material. In particular, the heat-curable material can be directly mated with the coating or bushing of the heating rod. In this example, the cover or sleeve may be release or non-adherent relative to the heat curable material.

[0011] In some embodiments, the heating rod includes a heating element and a sheath surrounding the heating element. The heating rod can also have a coating on the jacket. The cover and shell can be made of various materials. The coating can assist in removing the heating rod after the heat-curable material has cured. For example, the coating may not adhere to the heat curable material. In some embodiments, the coating may have a coefficient of thermal expansion that is greater than the thermal cure coefficient of the heat curable material when the material is cured.

[0012] In some embodiments of the invention, the heating rod also includes a sleeve over the sheath. The jacket and sleeve contain different materials. The sleeve can be used in addition to or in place of the cover. In some embodiments, the sleeve is removable from the sheath, which may assist in removing the heating rod from the cavity after the heat curable material has cured. In particular, the sleeve can be retained within said cavity after removing the heating rod from said cavity. In these embodiments, the method can also include removing the sleeve from said cavity. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the sleeve may be retained in said cavity and may become part of the assembly along with the first piece. The sleeve may contain polymer. In particular, the polymer of the sleeve can be a fluorine-containing polymer.

[0013] In some embodiments, the heating element of the heating rod is connected to a first electrical terminal and a second electrical terminal. The first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal may be used, for example, to supply electrical power to the heating element of the heating rod. The first electrical terminal may extend from the first end of the shell, and the second electrical terminal may extend from a second end of the shell other than the first end. This type of heating rod can pass through the first piece. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal may extend from the first end of the shell. The indicated type of heating rod can be used for blind holes.

[0014] In some embodiments, the heating element extends less than 75% of the jacket length, or even less than 50% of that length. This feature can be used to selectively heat the heat-curable material. The remainder of the shell may remain unheated or may include a cooling element.

[0015] In some embodiments, the heating rod extends through the first piece. This approach can be used to apply a compressive force to the first part using a heating rod. In addition, the heating rod can pass through the second part stacked with the first part. In this example, these two parts can be squeezed together by a heating rod. In some embodiments, the portion of the heating rod passing through the second part does not generate heat while transferring heat from the heating rod to the heat-curable material.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first part is porous. The second part can hold (eg, seal) the heat-curable material within the boundary of the first part such that the heat-curable material is not squeezed beyond this boundary until the material is cured. For example, the first piece can have a honeycomb structure and the cavity can be a hole in the honeycomb structure.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method also includes placing a liner over the heating rod. The liner can be adhered to the first part by means of a heat curable material. The liner can be placed over the heating rod before inserting the heating rod into said cavity. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the insert can be placed over the heating rod after inserting the heating rod into the said cavity.

[0018] In some embodiments, the cavity of the first part is a through hole. In this example, the heating rod can completely pass through the specified cavity and extend outside the first part to opposite sides of the first part. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the cavity of the first part may be a blind hole. In this example, the heating rod can pass into the specified cavity without passing through the first part.

[0019] The heat curable material is selected from the group consisting of a sealant compound and an adhesive. The first part can be a composite material such as a borosilicate glass composite or any other form of graphite / carbon filament composites.

[0020] The heat curable material can be heated to a temperature of about 150 ° F (66 ° C) - 250 ° F (121 ° C) while curing it within the specified cavity or, in particular, to a temperature of about 175 ° F ( 79 ° C) - 225 ° F (107 ° C). This temperature can be selected based on the heat curable material. In some embodiments, the temperature of the heat-curable material remains substantially constant throughout most (eg, greater than 50%) of the heating.

[0021] In some embodiments, the method also includes cooling a portion of a first piece or a portion of a second piece stacked with the first piece while transferring heat to the heat-curable material. This cooling can be used to ensure that other components near the heat-curable material remain at a lower temperature than, for example, the temperature required to cure the heat-curable material. This cooling can be performed using a portion of the heating rod.

[0022] In some embodiments, the method also includes removing the heating rod from the cavity after the heat-curable material has cured. After removing the heating rod from said cavity, the method may include installing a fastener into said cavity of the first piece after removing the heating rod from said cavity. In some embodiments of the invention, the method also includes forming said cavity in the first part.

[0023] Another example of a method for curing a heat curable material within a cavity of a first part is also disclosed. In this example, the method includes thermally bonding a heating rod and a heat-curable material located within said cavity and changing the phase of a material capable of transitioning from one phase to another located within said cavity. A phase change of a material capable of transitioning from one phase to another can be performed at the cure temperature for the heat curable material. In addition, the phase change of the material, which is able to transition from one phase to another, located within the specified cavity, is part of the transfer of heat from the heating rod to the heat-curable material when the heat-curable material is located within the specified cavity. As noted above, the transfer of heat from the heating rod to the heat-curable material can cure the heat-curable material. In addition, as noted above, thermal bonding of the heating rod and the heat-curable material located within the cavity may include inserting the heating rod into the cavity and placing the heat-curable material in the cavity. Various other aspects of this example are also described above.

[0024] In some embodiments of the invention, the curing system includes a heating rod, a first support, and a second support. The heating rod may include a heating element, a sheath surrounding the heating element, a first electrical terminal connected to the heating element, and a second electrical terminal connected to the heating element. The first support interacts with the heating rod sheath. The second support interacts with the heating rod sheath. The second support is movable between the first end and the second end of the heating rod in continuous interaction with the heating rod sheath.

[0025] The heating element of the heating rod is a resistive heating element. In some embodiments, the curing system also includes a thermocouple to measure the temperature of the sheath. The curing system may also include a system controller for controlling electrical power supplied to the heating element of the heating rod.

[0026] In some embodiments of the invention, the heating rod also includes a sleeve over the sheath. The jacket and sleeve contain different materials. For example, the sleeve may contain a polymer such as a fluorine-containing polymer. The sleeve can be removable. In some embodiments of the invention, the heating rod may include a coating on the sheath. The casing and coating contain different materials.

[0027] In some embodiments, a first electrical terminal extends from a first end of the shell and a second terminal extends from a second end of the shell other than the first end. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the first electrical terminal and the second electrical terminal extend from the same end, such as the first end, of the shell.

[0028] The heating element may extend less than 75% of the length of the envelope, or in particular less than 50% of this length.

[0029] These and other embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of a method for curing a heat curable material within a cavity of a part in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0031] FIG. 2A is a schematic cross-section of a stack of two parts, both of which have cavities in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0032] FIG. 2B is a schematic sectional view of the foot shown in FIG. 2A with a heating rod extending through the cavities, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0033] FIG. 2C is a schematic sectional view of the foot shown in FIG. 2A, with a heating rod through the cavities and a heat-curable material disposed in one of the cavities, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0034] FIG. 2D is a schematic cross-section of the foot shown in FIG. 2C with a liner positioned in the other of the cavities, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0035] FIG. 2E is a schematic sectional view of the foot shown in FIG. 2D clamped by a heating rod such that said parts are compressed by a heating rod in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0036] FIG. 2F is a schematic sectional view of the foot shown in FIG. 2E, showing power and control components for a curing system in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0037] FIG. 2G is a schematic sectional view of the foot shown in FIG. 2E, after the heat curable material has cured and the heating rod has been removed from said cavity, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0038] FIG. 2H is a schematic sectional view of the foot shown in FIG. 2G after the fastener has been installed through the cavity in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0039] FIG. 2I is a schematic sectional view of the foot shown in FIG. 2G, with the heating rod bushing remaining in the cavity, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0040] FIG. 2J is a schematic sectional view of the foot shown in FIG. 2A, prior to insertion of the heating rod into said cavity with an insert sliding over the heating rod, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0041] FIG. 3A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a part with a heating rod extending through a cavity of said part and thermally bonding to a heat-curable material located within said cavity, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0042] FIG. 3B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stack of three pieces with a heating rod extending through all three pieces and thermally bonding to a heat-curable material located within a cavity of a middle piece, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0043] FIG. 3C is a schematic sectional view of a part having a blind cavity with a heat-curable material disposed in the cavity and a heating rod extending into the cavity, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0044] FIG. 3D-E is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stack with a honeycomb middle and a heat curable material disposed within a single cell of the honeycomb in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0045] FIG. 4A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stack with a heating rod extending through the stack and directly mating with a heat-curable material disposed within a cavity of one piece to form a stack, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0046] FIG. 4B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a stack with a heating rod passing through the stack and directly mating with the heat-curable material disposed within the cavities of the two pieces to form a stack, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0047] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram of a curing system in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0048] FIG. 5B-5C schematically illustrate other examples of a cure system in two states, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0049] FIG. 6A is a schematic cross-section of a heating rod illustrating the internal components of said heating rod in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0050] FIG. 6B is a schematic sectional view of another example of a heating rod in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0051] FIG. 6C is a schematic sectional view of yet another example of a heating rod in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0052] FIG. 6D is a schematic sectional view of a heating rod having a material that is capable of transitioning from one phase to another, located within its shell, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention.

[0053] FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of an aircraft manufacturing and maintenance technology that may utilize the methods and assemblies described herein.

[0054] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of an aircraft, which may include the methods and assemblies described herein.

CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0055] In the following description, numerous specific data are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed concepts, which may be practiced without some or all of these particulars. In other cases, well-known process steps have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily complicate the described concepts. While some concepts will be described in connection with specific implementations, it should be noted that these implementations are not intended to limit the invention.

Introduction

[0056] The curing of various heat curable materials, such as sealants, adhesives, and the like, is important for many applications. Some examples of these applications include, but are not limited to, repairing holes in composite / metal structures / non-structural elements, making / repairing sandwich panels, curing sealants in aerospace structures, and other similar applications. Often, heat-curable materials are located in hard-to-reach locations, such as deep and narrow cavities and / or component cavities below other components. As explained above, external heating of these assemblies can lead to heating of the surrounding parts, which can be undesirable due to processing time, material constraints, and other reasons described above.

[0057] Methods and systems are disclosed for curing various materials located within cavities and / or other similar restricted access locations. Curing is obtained by internal heating, and in some embodiments, direct heating of these materials by placing a heat source, such as a heating rod, directly in the cavity. Internal heating has many advantages over conventional external heating, including faster processing, less heat consumption, less heating of other components, and the like.

[0058] In some embodiments, a cavity may be formed within a piece covered with other pieces, such as a cavity formed in an inner piece stacked between other pieces. For example, the cavity may be an empty cavity in a sandwich panel core (eg, honeycomb core) formed during manufacture or during repairs. The core of the sandwich panel can have outer panels that can be solid, and the inner panel can be porous (eg, contain voids).

[0059] The method may include thermally bonding a heating rod and a heat-curable material located within said cavity, for example, by inserting a heating rod into said cavity and placing a heat-curable material in said cavity. The heating rod and the heat curable material are thermally bonded within the cavity. In some embodiments of the invention, the heat curable material is a sealing compound. However, other types of heat curable material are also within the scope of the present invention. The method can be continued by transferring heat from the heating rod to the heat-curable material, which can result in the heat-curable material curing. This heat transfer may include heating the heating rod and, in some embodiments, changing the phase of a material capable of transitioning from one phase to another. For example, the heating rod can include a resistive heating element, and the method can include passing an electric current through the heating element. In the same or another example, the heating rod may include a phase-to-phase transition temperature that corresponds to the cure temperature of the heat curable material.

[0060] The position and construction of the heating rod can be such that heat is transferred preferentially to the heat-curable material. For example, more than 50% of the heat generated by the heating rod can be transferred to the heat-curable material. This approach can also be referred to as direct heating or localized heating of the heat curable material. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that heat transferred to a heat-curable material may be dissipated from the heat-curable material to other surrounding parts. However, this approach causes less heating of the surrounding parts than, for example, conventional external heating, i.e. when these parts are used to transfer heat to a heat-curable material.

[0061] More heat is transferred to the heat-curable material due to the heat rod having a more direct thermal connection to the heat-curable material. This can also be referred to as primary heating and / or direct heating of the heat-curable material. During this process, only slight limited heating occurs, which may be referred to as reheating, of the structures surrounding the heat-curable material. In other words, heat can be transferred to one or more parts defining a cavity containing the heat curable material. This heat distribution approach is clearly different from conventional external heating methods. In general, in the described methods and systems, heat is supplied where it is really needed and the heating of other components is reduced, which makes the process as a whole more efficient, faster and less damaging to surrounding components.

[0062] In some embodiments, cooling may be provided to one or more parts surrounding the heat-curable material to minimize heat propagation outside the heat-curable material. Cooling can be provided externally or internally. For example, the cooling element may be thermally bonded to one or more of the outer surfaces of said parts. In the same or other examples, a heating rod can be used for cooling. It should be noted that this cooling is provided by the heating rod in addition to heating. For example, a cooling mechanism can be housed within the shell of the heating rod. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the heating rod may be used for heat transfer and may be thermally connected to an externally mounted cooling element.

[0063] In some embodiments, the heat curable material may be positioned within a laminate having a thickness of at least about 0.25 inches (6.35 mm) or even at least about 0.5 inches (12 , 7 mm). Without being bound by any particular theory, it is believed that at such a large thickness, conventional external heating becomes ineffective. In addition, in some embodiments, access to the heat-curable material may be limited to only one side of the laminate. For example, the cavity containing the heat curable material can be a blind hole, or the laminate can be placed on another structure (for example, the laminate can be an inner panel of an aircraft attached to an outer panel). Some specific examples of laminates include, but are not limited to, aircraft interior panels and aircraft nacelle or fairing panels. The aggregate of the laminate can be potted when a through fastener is required, as detailed below. In other words, the cured material is later used to provide support in various types of laminates, in particular laminates with porous internal structures, which are gaining popularity in aviation and other applications due to their light weight.

[0064] In general, the described methods and systems can be used to cure a variety of heat-curable materials by internally supplying heat to the interior of the cavities, and, in some embodiments, directly to these materials. This approach increases processing speeds, eliminates excess heating of surrounding parts, and allows for more precise control of the cure process (eg, cure temperature and / or cure duration) than conventional external heating. In addition, this approach eliminates the need to disassemble the stacks of multiple parts to gain access to the heat-curable material located within the stacks. Various aspects of these methods and systems will now be described in more detail with reference to the specific figures of the drawings.

Processing examples

[0065] FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of a method 100 for curing a heat curable material 250 disposed within a cavity 212 of a first piece 210, in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Some examples of the first piece 210 may be selected from the group consisting of a layered structure (eg, a layered structure within a porous core), a carbon fiber reinforced polymer, and a honeycomb structure. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that many types of structures are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0066] Method 100 may begin by stacking first piece 210 with one or more other pieces during additional step 102. For example, first piece 210 may be stacked with second piece 220 as shown in FIG. 2A. The first part 210 can be a carbon fiber reinforced resin part, and the second part 220 can be a metal part, or in particular a titanium part.

[0067] In some embodiments, the foot 200 may include three or more parts, such as shown in FIG. 3B. For example, the first piece 210 may be a carbon fiber reinforced resin, and the second piece 220 may be a metal piece, and the third piece 270 may be another metal piece. In this example, a cavity 212 receiving heat-curable material 250 may be provided in the first piece 210 located between the second piece 220 and the third piece 270.

[0068] FIG. 3D and 3E show another example of a stack 200 in which the first piece 210 has a honeycomb structure. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other types of porous structures and structures with internal voids are also included within the scope of the present invention. The first piece 210 is located between the second piece 220 and the third piece 230, which may be one piece piece. In this example, cavity 212 may be one cell of a honeycomb structure (first structure 210 in this example). To gain access to cavity 212 and supply heat-curable material 250, as well as to protrude heating rod 310, an opening may be provided in second member 220. In some embodiments, an additional opening may be provided in third piece 230, such as when heating rod 310 extends through the entire stack 200, as shown in FIG. 3D. Heat curable material 250 can fill a cell of a honeycomb structure as shown in FIG. 3D and 3E. For example, the schematic top section shown in FIG. 3E shows a hexagonal cross-section of this cell. In other words, cavity 212 in this example is a hexagonal prism extending through the entire thickness of first piece 210. Other cross-sections of cavity 212, such as circular, rectangular, etc., are also included within the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that the cross-sections of the cavity 212 and the heating rod 310 may be different. As such, the wall thickness of the heat curable material 250 may vary, as shown in FIG. 3E. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the wall thickness of the heat curable material 250 may be the same when, for example, both cavity 212 and heating rod 310 have the same cross-sectional shape and are concentric.

[0069] With reference to the example shown in FIG. 3D and 3E, it should be noted that the first piece 210 may include a plurality of cavities, such as a plurality of honeycomb cells, and only one of these cavities (in the example shown) or a selected group of these cavities may be filled with a heat curable material 250. The boundaries of this one or more cavities can define the distribution of the heat-curable material 250 within the first part 210.

[0070] In some embodiments, cavity 212 may have an irregular shape. For example, the first piece 210 may be made of a porous material, and when the cavity 212 is formed through the first piece 210 or is formed within the first piece 210 (for example, one or more cells of the honeycomb structure are defined), the cavity 212 may contain several openings that may be at least open for flowing heat-curable material 250 therein.

[0071] At least one piece 210 in these examples of the stack 200 may include a cavity 212 that subsequently receives the heat-curable material 250. In some embodiments, the heat-curable material 250 is disposed in a plurality of cavities of various pieces forming the stack. For example, in FIG. 4A illustrates heat-curable material 250 disposed in cavity 222 of second piece 220 in addition to cavity 212 of first piece 210. In alternative embodiments, heat-curable material 250 may be delimited by one portion in the stack, such as cavity 212 of first piece 210. In this in an example, it may not be possible to extrude heat-curable material 250 into other parts. In other words, the cavity 222 of the second piece 220 stacked with the first piece 210 may remain free of heat-curable material 250, such as shown in FIG. 2C-2G. In this example, cavity 222 of second piece 220 may be used, for example, to access cavity 212 of first piece 210, such as extending heating rod 310 delivering heat-curable material 250, and / or other similar tasks.

[0072] In some embodiments, the method 100 includes forming a cavity 212 in the first part 210 during an additional step 104. The cavity 212 in the first part 210 may be formed by obtaining the first part 210 (eg, obtaining a honeycomb structure) or using mechanical steps processing such as drilling, milling, etc. In both steps 102 and 104, step 104 may be performed before or after step 102. In other words, cavity 212 may be formed in first piece 210 before or after it is placed with second piece 220.

[0073] Method 100 may be continued by thermally bonding heating rod 310 to heat curable material 250 during step 106. For example, thermal bonding step 106 may include inserting heating rod 310 into cavity 212 of first part 210 during step 110 and placing the curable while heating material 250 in cavity 212 during step 120. In some embodiments, heating rod 310 passes through cavity 212 of first piece 210, such as shown in FIG. 2B. When the heating rod 310 completely passes through the first piece 210, the heating rod 310 can be used to apply a compression force 218 to the first piece 210, as schematically shown in FIG. 2A. For example, the heating rod 310 may be coupled to a first leg 320 and a second leg 330 located on different sides of the first piece 210. The first leg 320 and the second leg 330 may be slidable towards each other, as detailed below with reference in FIG. 5B and 5C and applying a compressive force to the first member 210. This compressive force can be at least partially transferred to the heat-curable material 250 and can cause the heat-curable material 250 to flow into the holes and other exposed portions surrounding the cavity 212.

[0074] In some embodiments, the heating rod 310 may also pass through the second piece 220 stacked with the first piece 210, such as shown in FIG. 2B. In this example, the two parts 210 and 220 can be compressed together by the heating rod 310, as schematically shown in FIG. 2E.

[0075] In alternative embodiments, the heating rod 310 may extend into the cavity 212 without passing through the first member 210, such as shown in FIG. 3C. For example, cavity 212 can be a blind hole. In this example, the heating rod 310 can be sealed and even pressed against the first piece 210 by external means.

[0076] In some embodiments, inserting the heating rod 310 into the cavity 212 of the first member 210 during step 110 also includes sealing at least one end of the cavity 212, such as shown in FIG. 2B. For example, the first support 320 of the cure system 300 may be in contact with the first piece 210 thereby sealing one end of the cavity 212. This seal may be used to prevent the heat-curable material 250 from flowing out of the cavity 212 when the heat-curable material 250 is applied. subsequently into cavity 212. When cavity 212 is a through hole, both ends can be sealed with curing system supports 300 or with parts surrounding first piece 210.

[0077] In some embodiments, method 100 also includes placing liner 240 over heating rod 310 during additional step 116. Upon completion of method 100, liner 240 may be adhered to first part 210 by heat curable material 250. In other words, liner 240 may remain in the stack 200. In alternative embodiments, the liner 240 may be removed from the stack 200 (eg, by removing the heating rod 310 or later). The liner 240 may be formed of a thermally conductive material and provide an even heat distribution to the heat curable material 250, transferring heat from the heating rod 310 to the heat curable material 250.

[0078] Insert 240 may be placed over heating rod 310 prior to insertion of heating rod 310 into cavity 212, such as schematically shown in FIG. 2J. In other words, step 116 may be performed prior to step 110. In alternative embodiments, liner 240 may be placed over heating rod 310 after heating rod 310 is inserted into cavity 212, such as schematically shown in FIG. 2B-2C. In this case, step 116 is performed after step 110. Insert 240 is optional and may be used to center heating rod 310 relative to stack 210 and / or to provide thermal and / or mechanical insulation (e.g., to seal heat-curable material 250 within cavity 212). For example, such insulation can be obtained when liner 240 is placed in a mating piece (eg, second piece 220) or above or below (or on both sides) cavity 212 of first piece 210, which may be a composite laminate being repaired. In some embodiments, the liner 240 is not used.

[0079] When the liner 240 is in use, the liner 240 may be positioned between the heating rod 310 and the heat curable material 250, as shown in FIG. 2D-2F. It should be noted that the liner is not part of the heating rod 310 or curing system 300. In some embodiments, the liner 240 may not be used and the heat curable material 250 may be directly mated to the heating rod 310, as schematically shown in FIG. 4A and described in detail below.

[0080] Method 100 may include placing heat-curable material 250 in cavity 212 of first piece 210 during step 120. For example, heat-curable material 250 may be dispensed into cavity 212 using a dispenser or other similar means. The heat curable material 250 can be selected from the group consisting of a sealing compound and an adhesive. Other heat curable materials are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0081] It should be noted that the heating rod 310 may be inserted into the cavity 212 prior to placing the heat-curable material 250 in the cavity 212. In other words, step 110 is performed before step 120. This flow is shown in FIG. 2B-2C. In this example, heating rod 310, or more generally curing system 300, may be used to seal at least one end of cavity 212, which prevents heat-curable material 250 from flowing out of cavity 212 until heat-curable material 250 will not become cured. For example, the sealing can help prevent squeezing when the heat-curable material 250 expands during heating or penetrates into small open portions around the cavity 212 with an external force applied to the first part 210. In addition, the heat-curable material 250 moves between different parts (e.g. , first part 210 and second 220) can be avoided by sealing the heat-curable material within cavity 212 of first part 210. Finally, heat-curable material 250 may change its viscosity throughout the cure process and may be more prone to exiting cavity 212.

[0082] In alternative embodiments, the heating rod 310 may be inserted into the cavity 212 after placing the heat curable material 250 in the cavity 212. In other words, step 110 is performed after step 120. In this example, the heating rod 310 may pass through the heat curable material 250 in cavity 212 when the rod is inserted into cavity 212. Such a sequence of steps may be used, for example, to further distribute heat-curable material 250 within cavity 212.

[0083] In addition, heating rod 310 may be inserted into cavity 212 while placing heat-curable material 250 in cavity 212. For example, heat-curable material 250 may be positioned around heating rod 310 prior to insertion of heating rod 310 into the cavity. When the heating rod 310 is inserted into the cavity, the heating rod 310 may carry the heat-curable material 250. In this example, the heat-curable material 250 may have a high viscosity and even be hard. Heat curable material 250 can be further redistributed within cavity 212, such as transferring heat from heating rod 310 to heat curable material 250. For example, heating heat curable material 250 can reduce the viscosity and redistribute heat curable material 250 for example, the heat curable material 250 flows more easily when it is heated and its viscosity decreases.

[0084] Method 100 may be continued by transferring heat to the heat-curable material 250 during step 130. As a result of this heat transfer, the heat-curable material 250 solidifies within the cavity 132, as illustrated at block 132 in FIG. 1. During heat transfer, the heat curable material 250 is thermally connected to at least a portion 310a of the heating rod 310 located within the cavity 212 and provides heat to the heat curable material 250. This thermal bond can be established by the heat curable material 250. directly mated to the heating rod 310, such as shown in FIG. 4A-4B. For example, heat curable material 250 may be directly interfaced with coating 315 or bushing 316 of heating rod 310. In this example, coating 315 or bushing 316 can be configured to detach from heat curable material 250. The various components of heating rod 310 are described below with with reference to FIG. 6A-6D. In alternative embodiments of the invention, thermal bonding may be established by a thermally conductive component located between the heat curable material 250 and a heating rod 310, such as liner 240, as schematically shown in FIG. 2D-2F.

[0085] As heat is transferred from the heating rod 310 to the heat-curable material 250, the temperature of the heat-curable material 250 may rise to about 150 ° F (66 ° C) - 250 ° F (121 ° C), or more specifically approximately 175 ° F (79 ° C) - 225 ° F (107 ° C). This temperature can be influenced by the cure requirements of the heat curable material 250, as well as temperature limits for surrounding parts. This duration can also depend on the cure requirements for the heat curable material 250, as well as other factors. Various temperature profiles can be used to cure material 250. These profiles may require heat transfer from the heating rod 310 to the heat curable material 250 over time. The heat transfer rate can vary over time and can be adjusted based on temperature feedback and other factors, as detailed below.

[0086] In some embodiments, transferring heat to the heat curable material 250 during step 130 includes heating at least a portion 310a of the heating rod 310 thermally bonding to the heat curable material 250, as shown at block 131 in FIG. 1. This heating may be selective heating such that at least the other portion 310b of the heating rod 310 (with reference to FIG. 2F) is not heated. This other portion 310b may be spaced from the heat curable material 250, and heating the second portion 220 near this other portion 310b may be undesirable. Essentially, only a selected portion 310a of the heating rod 310 located adjacent to the heat curable material 250 is heated. As described in detail below with reference to FIG. 6C, heating rod 310 may include a heating element 314 that extends only a portion 310a of its length 312c. This portion 310a may be thermally bonded to the heat curable material 250 and other portions of the heating rod 310 may extend beyond the heat curable material 250.

[0087] In some embodiments, the heating (block 131 in FIG. 1) of the heating rod 310 may be resistive heating (block 134 in FIG. 1). In these embodiments, heating 131 may include supplying a voltage to the resistance heater 314 of the heating rod 310. This voltage may vary over time based on various factors, as detailed below.

[0088] In some embodiments, heat transfer to the heat-curable material 250 is performed while monitoring the temperature of the heat-curable material 250 (block 136 in FIG. 1). For example, temperature monitoring of the heat-curable material 250 may be accomplished using a heating rod 310. In particular, the heating rod 310 may include a thermocouple 319. Various aspects of the heating rod 310 are described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 6A-6D. The temperature output from thermocouple 319 can be used to control the amount of heat generated by heating rod 310.

[0089] In some embodiments, the heating rod 310 comprises a material 313 capable of transitioning from one phase to another, as described in detail below with reference to FIG. 6. In these embodiments, transferring heat to the heat curable material 250 during step 130 may include changing the phase of the material 313 capable of transitioning from one phase to another (as shown at block 138 in FIG. 1). This phase change phenomenon can be used to control the temperature of the heat curable material 250. For example, the heat curable material 250 can be cured at the phase change temperature. In other words, the phase-to-phase transition material 313 is selected such that its phase change temperature coincides with the cure temperature of the heat curable material 250. Essentially, at least the outer surface of the heating rod 230 will be at its temperature phase transition and remain at this temperature until all material 313 capable of transition from one phase to another does not change its phase and thus maintains the curing temperature constant until the heat-curable material 250 becomes cured. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that this phase transition of the heat curable material 250 allows some heat to be absorbed and released by the material 313 being able to transition from one phase to another while maintaining a constant temperature.

[0090] In some embodiments, method 100 includes cooling one or more parts during an additional step 139. For example, a portion of the first part 210 or a portion of the second part 220 stacked with the first part 210 may be cooled to transfer heat. into the heat-curable material 250 during step 130. In other words, step 139 may be part of step 130 as depicted in FIG. 1. This cooling can be used to ensure that other parts near the heat-curable material 250 remain at a lower temperature than, for example, the temperature required to cure material 250. Cooling can be performed using a portion of the heating rod 310, as described in detail below with reference to FIG. 6C. In the same or other examples, cooling can be performed using components located outside of the foot.

[0091] Method 100 may also include removing a heating rod 310 from said cavity 212 during an additional step 140. One example of a foot 200 after removal of a heating rod 310 is schematically shown in FIG. 2G. Heat curable material 250 is cured in this step of method 100. When using liner 240, liner 240 may remain in stack 200. FIG. 2G also shows an additional liner 242 inserted into the cavity 222 of the second member 220. The space previously occupied by the heating rod 310 may be used for mounting a fastener or for other purposes, as detailed below.

[0092] In some embodiments, heating rod 310 includes a sleeve 316 disposed over sheath 312 of heating rod 310. Various aspects of sleeve 316 are described below with reference to FIG. 6A. Sleeve 316 may be retained in the cavity after the heating rod 310 is removed from said cavity 212 during step 140, as schematically shown in FIG. 2I. For example, sleeve 316 can be used to facilitate removal operation 140. In some embodiments, the friction between the sleeve 316 and the shell 312 may be less than between the sleeve 316 and the heat-curable material 250, which is already solid at this point. In these embodiments, method 100 may also include removing sleeve 316 from said cavity 212 during step 150. Sleeve 316 can be more easily removed from cavity 212 after heating rod 310 is removed, as additional space is available within sleeve 316. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the sleeve 316 can be retained in the cavity 212 and can become part of the foot 200 together with the first part 210.

[0093] In some embodiments, after heating rod 310 has been removed from said cavity 212, method 100 may be continued by installing fastener 260 into cavity 212 of first member 210 during additional step 160. FIG. 2H is a schematic illustration of a foot 200 after fastener 260 has been inserted through the space previously occupied by heating rod 310. Fastener 260 may extend through first piece 210 and second piece 220 and, in some embodiments, compress pieces 210 and 220 together. Some examples of fastener 260 include, but are not limited to, a rivet, bolt, insert, or fastener / fastener mechanism.

System examples

[0094] FIG. 5A shows an example of a curing system 300 comprising a heating rod 310, a first support 320, and a second support 330. The first support 320 interacts with a shell 312 of a heating rod 310. A second support 330 also interacts with a shell 312 of the heating rod 310. The second support 330 may be formed with the ability to move between the first end 312a and the second end 312b of the shell 312 in continuous interaction with the shell 312 of the heating rod 310, as, for example, schematically shown in FIG. 5B and 5C. In some embodiments, the first support 320 and the second support 330 are movable. This movement can be used to seal the first part 210, and in some embodiments of the invention to press the first part 210, for example, against the second part 220. The compression force 218 can be generated by mechanical means, pneumatic means, hydraulic means, and the like. For example, the second support 330 may include a nut 332 threaded to the sheath 312 of the heating rod 310. In some embodiments, the second support 330 also includes an insulator 333 and a spacer 331. For example, when the spacer 331 can be pressed against a nut 332 to the detail.

[0095] FIG. 6A illustrates the internal components of the heating rod 310. For example, the heating rod 310 may include a heating element 314 and a sheath 312 surrounding the heating element 314. The heating rod 310 may include a first electrical lead 318a coupled to the heating element 314 and a second electrical lead 318b also connected to the heating element 314. The heating element 314 of the heating rod 310 may be a resistive heating element. The first electrical terminal 318a connected to the heating element 314 and the second electrical terminal 318b may be used to supply voltage to the heating element 314, thereby conducting electric current through the heating element 314.

[0096] In some embodiments, the first electrical lead 318a extends from the first end 312a of the shell 312, and the second electrical lead 318b extends from the second end 312b of the shell 312 other than the first end 312a, such as schematically shown in FIG. 6A. In alternative embodiments of the invention, the first electrical terminal 318a and the second electrical terminal 318b extend from the same end, such as the first end 312a, of the shell 312, as, for example, schematically shown in FIG. 6A.

[0097] In some embodiments, the curing system 300 also includes a thermocouple 319, such as shown in FIG. 6A. Thermocouple 319 can be used to measure the temperature of the sheath 312. The output of the thermocouple 319 can be used to control electrical power supplied to the heating element 314 of the heating rod 310. For example, the curing system 300 can also include a system controller 340 as shown in FIG. 6A. The system controller 340 is in communication with the thermocouple 319. 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 electrical power supplied to the heating element 314. As shown in FIG. 6A, the system controller 340 may be in communication with a power source 350 that is connected to the first electrical terminal 318a and the second electrical terminal 318b. The system controller 340 may instruct the power source 350 regarding the level of power supplied to the heating element 314 through the first electrical terminal 318a and the second electrical terminal 318b.

[0098] In some embodiments, the heating rod 310 also includes a sleeve 316 positioned over the sheath 312, such as shown in FIG. 6A. Jacket 312 and sleeve 316 contain different materials. For example, sleeve 316 may include polymer 316a, such as fluoropolymer 316b. Sheath 312 can be metallic. Sleeve 316 can be removable and can slide over sheath 312 when heating rod 310 is removed from said cavity 212 after heat-curable material 250 has cured.

[0099] In some embodiments, the heating rod 310 may include a coating 315 disposed on a sheath 312, such as schematically shown in FIG. 6B. Shell 312 and cover 315 may contain different materials. In some embodiments, the cover 315 is used in addition to the sleeve 316, for example, to assist in the removal of the sleeve 316. In alternative embodiments, the cover 315 may be used in place of the sleeve 316.

[00100] The heating element 314 can extend less than 75% of the length 312c of the shell 232, or in particular less than 50% of the length 312c, as schematically shown in FIG. 6C. This aspect promotes selective heating. For example, the location and size of the heating element 314 may correspond to a portion 310a of the heating rod 310 that is thermally connected to the heat curable material 250. Essentially, not all parts in contact with the heating rod 310 are heated. In some embodiments, the heating element 314 of the heating rod 310 is a resistive heating element 314 '.

[00101] In some embodiments, the curing system 300 comprises a material 313 capable of transitioning from one phase to another. For example, a material 313 capable of transitioning from one phase to another can be located within the shell 312, as schematically shown in FIG. 6D. As described above, the phase-to-phase material 313 assists in temperature control by transferring heat from the heating rod 310 to the heat-curable material 250.

[00102] In some embodiments, the heating rod 310 also includes a cooling element 317. For example, a cooling element 317 may be located within the shell 312, as, for example, schematically shown in FIG. 6C. The location and size of the cooling element 317 can be selected based on one or more parts that are thermally connected to the heating rod 310, which, however, may not be thermally stable.

Examples of an aircraft and methods for its manufacture and operation

[00103] Examples of the disclosure of the present invention may be described in the context of a method 1100 for manufacturing and maintaining an aircraft as shown in FIG. 7, and an aircraft 1102 as shown in FIG. 8. During pre-fabrication, the illustrated method 1100 may include specification and design (block 1104) for aircraft 1102 and supplies (block 1106). During manufacturing, fabrication of components and sub-assemblies (block 1108) and systems integration (block 1110) of aircraft 1102 can take place. The described methods and systems formed by these methods, such as methods for curing heat curable materials in cavities, can be used on any of the stages of specification and design development (block 1104) of the aircraft 1102, logistics (block 1106), manufacturing of components and subassemblies (block 1108), and / or validation and integration of systems (block 1110) of the aircraft 1102.

[00104] Thereafter, the aircraft 1102 may go through a certification and delivery stage (block 1112) for commissioning (block 1114). In service, aircraft 1102 may undergo routine maintenance and repair (block 1116). Routine maintenance and repairs may include upgrades, conversions, refurbishments, and so on of one or more aircraft 1102 systems. The described methods and systems formed by these methods, such as methods for curing heat-curable materials within cavities, can be used on any from the stages of certification and delivery (block 1112), routine and maintenance (block 1114) and / or routine repair and maintenance (block 1116).

[00105] Each of the processes of the illustrated method 1100 may be performed or implemented by a system integrator, a third party, and / or an operator (eg, a customer). For purposes of this disclosure, a system integrator may include, without limitation, any number of aircraft manufacturers and major system subcontractors; the third party may include, without limitation, any number of sellers, subcontractors and suppliers; and the operator can be an airline, leasing company, military organization, service organization, etc.

[00106] As shown in FIG. 8, an aircraft 1102 manufactured by the illustrated method 1100 may include a body 1118 with a plurality of high-level systems 1120 and an interior 1122. Examples of high-level systems 1120 include one or more of the following systems: propulsion system 1124, electrical system 1126 , hydraulic system 1128 and system 1130 environmental control. Any number of other systems may be included. Although an example is shown for the aerospace industry, the principles disclosed herein can be applied to other industries such as the automotive industry. Accordingly, in addition to aircraft 1102, the principles disclosed herein may be applied to other vehicles, such as land vehicles, marine vehicles, space vehicles, etc.

[00107] The device (s) and method (s) shown or described herein may be used during any one or more steps of the manufacturing and service method (exemplified by method 1100). For example, components or sub-assemblies related to the manufacture of components and sub-assemblies (block 1108) may be fabricated or manufactured similarly to components or sub-assemblies manufactured during the operation of aircraft 1102 (block 1114). Also, one or more examples of device (s) and method (s), or combinations thereof, can be used during manufacturing operations (block 1108) and (block 1110), for example, with a significant acceleration of assembly or cost reduction of the aircraft 1102. Similarly , one or more examples of devices and methods, or combinations thereof, may be used, for example and without limitation, during operation of aircraft 1102 (block 1114) and / or during routine maintenance and repair (block 1116).

Conclusion

[00108] Various examples of device (s) and method (s) disclosed herein include various components, features, and functionalities. It should be understood that various examples of device (s) and method (s) disclosed herein may include any of the components, features, and functionality of any of the other examples of device (s) and method (s) disclosed herein. , in any combination, and all such possibilities are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[00109] Many modifications of the examples disclosed herein will become apparent to a person skilled in the art to which the disclosure of the present invention pertains, upon examination of the features of the present invention presented in the above description and in the accompanying drawings.

Thus, in general, in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided:

A1. A method (100) for curing a heat curable material (250) within a cavity (212) of a first part (210), comprising:

thermal bonding of a heating rod (310) and a heat-curable material (250) located inside said cavity (212); and

transferring heat from the heating rod (310) to the heat-curable material (250) when the heat-curable material (250) is located within said cavity (212) and is thermally connected to the heating rod (310).

A2. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the transfer of heat from the heating rod (310) to the heat-curable material (250) leads to the cure of the heat-curable material (250).

A3. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the thermal connection of the heating rod (310) and the heat-curable material (250) includes:

inserting a heating rod (310) into said cavity (212) and

placing a heat-curable material (250) in said cavity (212).

A4. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A3, according to which a heating rod (310) is inserted into said cavity (212) before placing the heat curable material (250) in said cavity (212).

A5. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A3, according to which a heating rod (310) is inserted into said cavity (212) after placing a heat-curable material (250) in said cavity (212).

A6. There is also provided a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the transfer of heat from the heating rod (310) to the heat-curable material (250) comprises heating at least a portion (230a) of the heating rod (310) having a thermal connection with the heat-curable material (250).

A7. There is also provided a method (100) according to paragraph A6, according to which heating at least said part (230a) of the heating rod (310) includes resistance heating.

A8. A method (100) according to paragraph A7 is also proposed, according to which the additional part (230b) of the heating rod (310) is not heated, and

the additional part (230b) is not thermally bonded to the heat curable material (250).

A9. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A8, according to which said additional part (230b) of the heating rod (310) is cooled.

A10. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph A1, which also includes cooling a part of the first part (210) or a part of the second part (220) stacked with the first part (210), while transferring heat to the heat-curable material (250) ...

A11. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph A10, according to which the cooling of the specified part of the first part (210) or the specified part of the second part (220) stacked with the first part (210) is performed with the transfer of heat to the material curable when heated ( 250) using the heating rod (310).

A12. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the transfer of heat to the heat-curable material (250) is performed while monitoring the temperature of the heat-curable material (250).

A13. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A12, according to which the temperature monitoring of the heat-curable material (250) is performed using a heating rod (310).

A14. Also proposed is the method (100) of paragraph A13, according to which the heating rod (310) contains a thermocouple.

A15. Also proposed is the method (100) according to paragraph A1, also including changing the phase (313 ') of the material (313), having the possibility of transition from one phase to another, located inside the heating rod (310) with regulation, thus, the temperature of the cured by heating material (250) and with the transfer of heat from the heating rod (310) to the heat-curable material (250).

A16. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the heat-curable material (250) is sealed inside the said cavity (212) of the first part (210) while transferring heat from the heating rod (310) to the heat-curable material (250) ...

A17. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the heat-curable material (250) is directly mated with the heating rod (310), while transferring heat from the heating rod (310) to the heat-curable material (250).

A18. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the heating rod (310) comprises a heating element (314) and a sheath (312) surrounding the heating element (314).

A19. A method (100) according to paragraph A18 is also proposed, according to which the heating rod (310) also contains a coating (315) located on the shell (312), and

the shell (312) and the cover (315) contain different materials.

A20. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph A18, according to which the heating rod (310) also contains a sleeve (316) located over the shell (312), and

the shell (312) and the sleeve (316) contain different materials.

A21. Also proposed is the method (100) of paragraph A20, according to which the sleeve (316) contains a polymer.

A22. Also proposed is the method (100) of paragraph A21, according to which the polymer of the sleeve (316) is a fluorine-containing polymer.

A23. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph A20, also comprising removing a heating rod (310) from said cavity (212) after curing the heat-curable material (250), wherein

the sleeve (316) is held in said cavity (212) after the heating rod (310) is removed from said cavity (212).

A24. Also proposed is the method (100) of paragraph A23, also including removing the sleeve (316) from the specified cavity (212).

A25. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A18, according to which a heating element (314) of a heating rod (310) is connected to a first electrical terminal (318a) and a second electrical terminal (318b).

A26. A method (100) according to paragraph A25 is also proposed, according to which the first electrical terminal (318a) extends from the first end (312a) of the shell (312), and

a second electrical terminal (318b) extends from a second end (312b) of the shell (312) different from the first end (312a).

A27. A method (100) according to paragraph A25 is also proposed, according to which the first electrical terminal (318a) and the second electrical terminal (318b) extend from the first end (312a) of the shell (312).

A28. Also proposed is the method (100) of paragraph A18, according to which the heating element (314) extends less than 75% of the length of the shell (312).

A29. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the heating rod (310) passes through the first piece (210).

A30. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A29, according to which the heating rod (310) applies a compressive force to the first part (210).

A31. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A30, according to which the heating rod (310) passes through a second piece (220) stacked together with the first piece (210).

A32. A method (100) according to paragraph A31 is also proposed, according to which the first part (210) is porous, and

the second part (220) seals the heat-curable material (250) within the boundary of the first part (210).

A33. A method (100) according to paragraph A32 is also proposed, according to which the first part (210) has a honeycomb structure, and

the cavity (212) is an opening in the honeycomb structure.

A34. A method (100) according to paragraph A31 is also proposed, according to which the additional part of the heating rod (310) passing through the second part (220) does not generate heat while transferring heat to the heat-curable material (250).

A35. Also proposed is the method (100) of paragraph A1, which also includes placing the liner over the heating rod, and

the liner is adhered to the first part (210) with a heat curable material (250).

A36. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A35, according to which the insert is placed over the heating rod before inserting the heating rod (310) into said cavity (212) when the heating rod (310) is thermally connected to the heat-curable material (250).

A37. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A35, according to which the insert is placed over the heating rod after inserting the heating rod (310) into the said cavity (212) when the heating rod (310) is thermally connected to the heat-curable material (250).

A38. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A35, according to which the liner is placed over the heating rod after placing the heat-curable material (250) in the said cavity (212) of the first part (210) when the heating rod (310) is thermally connected to the heat-curable material (250). heating with material (250).

A39. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A35, according to which the insert is placed over the heating rod before placing the heat-curable material (250) in the said cavity (212) of the first part (210) when the heating rod (310) is thermally connected to the heat-curable material (250). heating with material (250).

A40. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the cavity (212) of the first part (210) is a through hole.

A41. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the cavity (212) of the first part (210) is a blind hole.

A42. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the heat-curable material (250) is selected from the group consisting of a sealing compound and an adhesive.

A43. Also proposed is the method (100) of paragraph A1, according to which the first part (210) contains a polymer reinforced with carbon fiber.

A44. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, according to which the heat-curable material (250) is heated to a temperature of about 150 ° F (66 ° C) - 250 ° F (121 ° C) while curing it within the specified cavity (212 ).

A45. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph A1, which also includes removing a heating rod (310) from said cavity (212) after the heat curable material (250) has cured.

A46. Also proposed is the method (100) according to paragraph A45, also including the installation of the fastener in the specified cavity (212) of the first part (210) after removing the heating rod (310) from the specified cavity (212).

A47. Also proposed is the method (100) according to paragraph A1, also including the implementation of the specified cavity (212) in the first part (210).

B1. A method (100) for curing a heat curable material (250) within a cavity (212) of a first part (210), comprising:

thermal bonding of a heating rod (310) and a heat-curable material (250) located inside said cavity (212); and

changing the phase (313 ') of the material (313), which has the possibility of transition from one phase to another, located inside the specified cavity (212).

B2. Also proposed is the method (100) according to paragraph B1, according to which the phase change (313 ') of the material (313), having the possibility of transition from one phase to another, is performed at the curing temperature for the heat curable material (250).

B3. A method (100) according to paragraph B1 is also proposed, according to which the phase change (313 ') of the material (313), which has the possibility of transition from one phase to another, located inside the specified cavity (212) is part of the heat transfer from the heating rod (310) to a heat-curable material (250) when a heat-curable material (250) is located within said cavity (212).

B4. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph B3, according to which the transfer of heat from the heating rod (310) to the heat-curable material (250) leads to the cure of the heat-curable material (250).

B5. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph B1, according to which the thermal connection of a heating rod (310) and a heat-curable material (250) located within said cavity (212) includes inserting a heating rod (310) into said cavity (212) and placing a heat-curable material (250) in said cavity (212).

B6. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph B1, according to which changing the phase (313 ') of a material (313) capable of transition from one phase to another includes heating at least a part of the heating rod (310) having a thermal connection with the heating with material (250).

B7. A method (100) according to paragraph B1 is also proposed, which also includes cooling a part of the first part (210) or a part of the second part (220) stacked with the first part (210), while changing the phase (313 ') of the material (313) , having the ability to move from one phase to another.

B8. A method (100) according to paragraph B1 is also proposed, according to which the heat-curable material (250) is sealed inside the specified cavity (212) of the first part (210) with a change in the phase (313 ') of the material (313), having the possibility of transition from one phases to another.

B9. Also proposed is the method (100) according to paragraph B1, according to which the heat-curable material (250) is directly mated with the heating rod (310), thereby changing the phase (313 ') of the material (313), having the possibility of transition from one phase to another.

AT 10 O'CLOCK. Also proposed is the method (100) of paragraph B1, according to which the heating rod (310) passes through the first piece (210).

AT 11. Also proposed is the method (100) according to paragraph B1, according to which the heat-curable material (250) is selected from the group consisting of a sealing compound and an adhesive.

AT 12. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph B1, which also includes removing a heating rod (310) from said cavity (212) after the heat curable material (250) has cured.

B13. Also proposed is the method (100) according to paragraph B12, also including the installation of the fastener in the specified cavity (212) of the first part (210) after removing the heating rod (310) from the specified cavity (212).

C1. A curing system for curing a heat curable material (250) within a cavity (212), comprising:

- heating rod (310) containing

heating element (314),

a sheath (312) surrounding the heating element (314),

a first electrical terminal (318a) connected to the heating element (314) and

a second electrical terminal (318b) connected to the heating element (314);

- the first support (320), interacting with the shell (312) of the heating rod (310); and

- the second support (330), interacting with the shell (312) of the heating rod (310) and made with the possibility of moving between the first end (312a) and the second end (312b) of the shell (312) in continuous interaction with the shell (312) of the heating rod ( 310).

C2. Also disclosed is a C1 curing system in which the heating element (314) of the heating rod (310) is a resistive heating element (314).

C3. Also proposed is a C1 curing system in which the heating element (314) extends less than 75% of the length of the sheath (312).

C4. A curing system according to paragraph C1 is also proposed, in which the first electrical terminal (318a) extends from the first end (312a) of the shell (312), and

a second electrical terminal (318b) extends from a second end (312b) of the shell (312) different from the first end (312a).

C5. There is also provided a curing system according to paragraph C1, in which a first electrical terminal (318a) and a second electrical terminal (318b) extend from a first end (312a) of the shell (312).

C6. A C1 curing system is also proposed, also containing a thermocouple for measuring the sheath temperature (312).

C7. Also provided is the C1 curing system also comprising a system controller (340) for controlling the electrical power supplied to the heating element (314) of the heating rod (310).

C8. Also proposed is a curing system according to paragraph C1, also containing a material (313) with the possibility of transition from one phase to another, located inside the shell (312).

C9. There is also proposed a curing system according to paragraph C8, in which the phase transition temperature of the material (313), having the possibility of transition from one phase to another, corresponds to the cure temperature for the heat curable material (250).

C10. Also proposed is a curing system according to paragraph C1, in which the first support (320) and the second support (330) are configured to seal the heat-curable material (250) within the said cavity (212).

C11. Also proposed is the C1 curing system in which the heating rod (310) also comprises a sleeve (316) located over the sheath (312), wherein

the shell (312) and the sleeve (316) contain different materials.

C12. Also proposed is the C11 cure system in which the sleeve (316) contains polymer (316a).

C13. Also proposed is the C12 curing system in which the polymer (316a) of the sleeve (316) is a fluoropolymer (316b).

C14. Also proposed is the C12 curing system in which the sleeve (316) is removable.

C15. A curing system according to paragraph C1 is also proposed, in which the heating rod (310) also contains a coating (315) located on the shell (312), and

the shell (312) and the cover (315) contain different materials.

C16. Also proposed is the C1 curing system in which the heating rod (310) also contains a cooling element (317) located within the shell (312).

D1. A method (100) for curing a heat curable material (250) within a cavity (212) of a first part (210), comprising:

thermal bonding of a heating rod (310) and a heat-curable material (250) located inside said cavity (212); and

a change in the phase of the material (313), which has the possibility of transition from one phase to another, located inside the specified cavity (212).

D2. Also proposed is the method (100) according to paragraph D1, according to which the phase change of the material (313), having the possibility of transition from one phase to another, is performed at the curing temperature for the heat-curable material (250).

D3. Also proposed is the method (100) according to paragraph D1, according to which the phase change of the material (313), having the possibility of transition from one phase to another, located inside the specified cavity (212), is part of the transfer of heat from the heating rod (310) to the cured at heating material (250) when the heat-curable material (250) is located within the specified cavity (212).

D4. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph D3, according to which the transfer of heat from the heating rod (310) to the heat-curable material (250) leads to the cure of the heat-curable material (250).

D5. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph D1, according to which the thermal connection of a heating rod (310) and a heat-curable material (250) located within said cavity (212) includes inserting a heating rod (310) into said cavity (212) and placing a heat-curable material (250) in said cavity (212).

D6. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph D1, according to which changing the phase of a material (313) capable of transition from one phase to another includes heating at least part of a heating rod (310) thermally bonding to a heat-curable material (250 ).

D7. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph D1, which also includes cooling a part of the first part (210) or a part of the second part (220) stacked with the first part (210), while changing the phase of the material (313) having the possibility of transition from one phase to another.

D8. There is also proposed a method (100) according to paragraph D1, according to which the heat-curable material (250) is sealed inside the said cavity (212) of the first part (210) with a change in the phase of the material (313), having the possibility of transition from one phase to another.

D9. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph D1, according to which the heat-curable material (250) is directly mated with the heating rod (310), thereby changing the phase of the material (313), having the possibility of transition from one phase to another.

D10. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph D1, according to which the heating rod (310) passes through the first piece (210).

D11. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph D1, according to which the heat curable material (250) is selected from the group consisting of a sealing compound and an adhesive.

D12. There is also a method (100) according to paragraph D1, which also includes removing the heating rod (310) from said cavity (212) after the heat curable material (250) has cured.

D13. Also proposed is the method (100) of paragraph D12, also including the installation of the fastening element (260) in the specified cavity (212) of the first part (210) after removing the heating rod (310) from the specified cavity (212).

E1. A curing system (300) for curing a heat curable material (250) within a cavity (212), comprising:

- heating rod (310) containing

heating element (314),

a sheath (312) surrounding the heating element (314),

a first electrical terminal (318a) connected to the heating element (314) and

a second electrical terminal (318b) connected to the heating element (314);

- the first support (320), interacting with the shell (312) of the heating rod (310); and

- the second support (330), interacting with the shell (312) of the heating rod (310) and made with the possibility of moving between the first end (312a) and the second end (312b) of the shell (312) in continuous interaction with the shell (312) of the heating rod ( 310).

E2 Also proposed is the curing system (300) of paragraph E1, in which the heating element (314) of the heating rod (310) is a resistive heating element (314).

E3. Also proposed is a curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, in which the heating element (314) extends less than 75% of the length of the shell (312).

E4. Also proposed is a curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, in which the first electrical terminal (318a) extends from the first end (312a) of the shell (312), and

a second electrical terminal (318b) extends from a second end (312b) of the shell (312) different from the first end (312a).

E5. Also proposed is the curing system (300) of paragraph E1, in which the first electrical terminal (318a) and the second electrical terminal (318b) extend from the first end (312a) of the shell (312).

E6. Also proposed is a curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, also containing a thermocouple (319) for measuring the temperature of the sheath (312).

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

E8. Also proposed is a system (300) for curing according to paragraph E1, also containing a material (313) with the possibility of transition from one phase to another, located inside the shell (312).

E9. Also proposed is a curing system (300) according to paragraph E8, in which the phase transition temperature of the material (313), having the possibility of transition from one phase to another, corresponds to the curing temperature for the heat curable material (250).

E10. Also proposed is a curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, in which the first support (320) and the second support (330) are configured to seal the heat-curable material (250) within said cavity (212).

E11. Also proposed is a curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, in which the heating rod (310) also contains a sleeve (316) located over the shell (312), and

the shell (312) and the sleeve contain different materials.

E12. Also proposed is the curing system (300) of paragraph E11, in which the sleeve (316) contains a polymer.

E13. Also proposed is the curing system (300) of paragraph E12, in which the polymer of the sleeve (316) is a fluorine-containing polymer.

E14. Also proposed is a curing system (300) according to paragraph E12, in which the sleeve (316) is removable.

E15. Also proposed is a curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, in which the heating rod (310) also contains a coating (315) located on the shell (312), and

the shell (312) and the cover (315) contain different materials.

E16. Also proposed is a curing system (300) according to paragraph E1, in which the heating rod (310) also contains a cooling element (317) located within the shell (312).

In this regard, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the specific examples shown, and that modifications and other examples are to be considered included within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, while the foregoing description and associated drawings describe examples of the disclosure of the present invention in the context of some exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be understood that various combinations of elements and / or functions may be created in alternative embodiments. without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, reference signs in parentheses in the appended claims are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention to the specific examples set forth in the disclosure of the present invention.

Claims (27)

1. A method for curing a heat-curable material inside a cavity of a part, including: thermal connection of the heating rod and the heat-curable material located inside the specified cavity; and transferring heat from the heating rod to the heat-curable material when the heat-curable material is located inside said cavity and in thermal connection with the heating rod; and cooling at least a portion of the part while transferring heat to the heat-curable material. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the transfer of heat from the heating rod to the heat-curable material cures the heat-curable material. 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the thermal bonding of the heating rod and the heat-curable material comprises: inserting the heating rod into the indicated cavity and placing the heat-curable material in said cavity. 4. The method of claim 1, wherein transferring heat from the heating rod to the heat-curable material comprises heating at least a portion of the heating rod thermally bonding to the heat-curable material. 5. The method of claim 1, further comprising stacking the second part with said part and cooling the portion of the second part while transferring heat to the heat-curable material. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the transfer of heat to the heat-curable material is performed while monitoring the temperature of the heat-curable material. 7. The method according to claim 1, which also includes changing the phase of a material that has the ability to transition from one phase to another located inside the heating rod, thereby adjusting the temperature of the material that is cured by heating and transferring heat from the heating rod to heat curable material. 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the heat-curable material is directly coupled to the heating rod, thereby transferring heat from the heating rod to the heat-curable material. 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the heating rod comprises a heating element and a sheath surrounding the heating element. 10. A curing system for curing a heat curable material (250) within a cavity (212), comprising: - a heating rod (310) containing: heating element (314), a sheath (312) surrounding the heating element (314), a first electrical terminal (318a) connected to the heating element (314) and a second electrical terminal (318b) connected to the heating element (314); - the first support (320), interacting with the shell (312) of the heating rod (310); and - the second support (330), interacting with the shell (312) of the heating rod (310) and made with the possibility of moving between the first end (312a) and the second end (312b) of the shell (312) in continuous interaction with the shell (312) of the heating rod ( 310). 11. The curing system of claim 10, which further comprises a system controller (340) for controlling electrical power supplied to the heating element (314) of the heating rod (310). 12. A curing system according to claim 10, which also comprises a material (313) capable of transition from one phase to another, located within the shell (312). 13. A curing system according to claim 12, wherein the phase transition temperature of the material (313) capable of transition from one phase to another corresponds to the curing temperature for the heat curable material (250). 14. The curing system of claim 10, wherein the first support (320) and the second support (330) are configured to seal the heat-curable material (250) within said cavity (212). 15. A curing system according to claim 10, wherein the heating rod (310) also comprises a sleeve (316) overlying the sheath (312), wherein the shell (312) and the sleeve (316) contain different materials.

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