Patents by Inventor Tom Hurka

Tom Hurka has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Heating apparatus for in-situ de-bulking composite parts during layup
    Patent number: 6991449
    Abstract: The invention is an apparatus for de-bulking a composite material preform laid up in a mold. In detail, the apparatus includes a flexible cover adapted to fit over the mold and preform and attach to the sides of the mold. The cover includes an inlet port located in the cover such that when the cover is fit over the mold and preform, the inlet port positioned over the preform. A stretchable cord seals the peripheral portions of the cover to the sides of the mold forming a chamber over the preform. A hot air pump is coupled to the inlet port of the cover for pumping hot air into the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: William T. Mead, John Potter, Tom Hurka