摘要 |
A method of preheating a thermoformable laminate assembly having first and second sides is disclosed. The method includes supplying pressurized heated air to first and second manifolds, each of which has an inlet for receiving the heated air and a plurality of orifices for passing the heated air out of the respective manifold. The manifolds are configured such that the orifices disposed progressively further away from the inlet of one manifold correspond with the orifices disposed progressively nearer to the inlet of the other manifold. The method further includes homogenizing the heated air and introducing the heated air onto the first side of the laminate assembly. A suction is developed on the second side of the laminate assembly to draw the heated air through the assembly, thereby convectively heating the assembly. An apparatus for practicing the method is also disclosed.
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