Transparent pressure bladder

摘要

An inflatable bladder system for applying generally uniform pressure to parts being welded to insure proper contact at the welding interface includes a first sheet that is generally transparent to electromagnetic radiation to allow such radiation to pass therethrough. This electromagnetic radiation serves to heat the parts to a temperature sufficient to create a weld. The inflatable bladder also includes a second sheet that is also generally transparent to electromagnetic radiation. The second sheet is coupled to the first sheet to create a sealed volume therebetween. Fluid is selectively introduced into the sealed volume in order to expand the bladder into engagement with the parts being welded to exert a generally uniform pressure thereon.