Installation tool and associated method for applying a patch to a surface

INSTALLATION TOOL AND ASSOCIATED METHOD FOR APPLYING A PATCHTOASURFACE An installation tool (10) and method are provided to apply a patch (14) to a structure while controlling the porosity in the bond line. An installation tool (10) is provided that includes a frame (12) defining an internal cavity (20). The installation tool (10) also includes a flexible membrane (18) that divides the internal cavity (20) into a first chamber (20a) proximate the surface and a second chamber (21b) separated from the surface by the first chamber (20a) and the flexible membrane (18). The flexible membrane (18) is releasably attached to the patch (14) such that the patch (14) faces the surface. The frame (12) includes first and second vacuum ports (30) into the first and second chambers (20a, 20b), respectively, such that pressure therewithin is separately controllable. The pressure within the first and second chambers (20a, 20b) is controlled such that the adhesive is degassed while the patch remains spaced from the surface and the flexible membrane (18) is thereafter caused to be stretched to urge the patch (14) toward the surface. CC=) - co . .. . . . . . . . .0