18521150. IN SITU CRACK REPAIR IN STRUCTURES simplified abstract (The Boeing Company)

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IN SITU CRACK REPAIR IN STRUCTURES

Organization Name

The Boeing Company

Inventor(s)

Michael J. Deluca of Norristown PA (US)

Matthew H. Cawthorne of Wayne PA (US)

Howard T. Rolleston of Glen Mills PA (US)

IN SITU CRACK REPAIR IN STRUCTURES - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18521150 titled 'IN SITU CRACK REPAIR IN STRUCTURES

Simplified Explanation

The abstract describes a method for repairing a crack in a structure using a manifold that conforms to the nonplanar surface contour of the structure. The manifold injects bonding material into the crack and drains it out after filling the crack.

  • The method involves mounting a manifold to the structure around the crack.
  • The manifold has a base portion with a grip surface that conforms to the nonplanar surface contour of the structure.
  • The cover portion of the manifold is connected to the base portion and has an injection port and a vent port in fluid communication with a channel aligned to the crack.
  • The injection port transfers bonding material into and out of the channel, while the plug opens and closes the vent port.
  • The method includes filling the channel with bonding material to direct it into the crack and draining the material from the manifold.

Potential Applications

This technology could be applied in the construction industry for repairing cracks in various structures such as buildings, bridges, and roads.

Problems Solved

This technology provides a solution for repairing cracks in structures with nonplanar surface contours efficiently and effectively.

Benefits

The method offers a reliable and durable way to repair cracks in structures, extending their lifespan and ensuring structural integrity.

Potential Commercial Applications

The technology could be utilized by construction companies, maintenance crews, and infrastructure repair teams for repairing cracks in structures.

Possible Prior Art

One possible prior art could be the use of injection ports and channels for repairing cracks in structures, although the specific design of the manifold to conform to nonplanar surfaces may be a novel aspect of this innovation.

Unanswered Questions

How does the bonding material interact with different types of surfaces on structures?

The article does not provide information on how the bonding material interacts with different types of surfaces on structures, such as concrete, metal, or wood. Further research or testing may be needed to understand this aspect.

Are there any limitations to the size or depth of cracks that can be repaired using this method?

The article does not mention any limitations to the size or depth of cracks that can be repaired using this method. It would be important to determine the practical boundaries of this technology for various applications.


Original Abstract Submitted

A method for repairing a crack in a structure includes mounting a manifold to the structure around the crack. The structure has a nonplanar surface contour that surrounds the crack. The manifold has a base portion, a cover portion, and a plug. The base portion has a grip surface configured to conform to the nonplanar surface contour of the structure. The cover portion is connected to the base portion, and has an injection port and a vent port in fluid communication with a channel aligned to the crack. The injection port transfers a bonding material into and out of the channel. The plug closes and opens the vent port. The method includes filling the channel with the bonding material to direct the bonding material into the crack, and draining the bonding material from the manifold.