Abstract:
A band and/or strip heater assembly which enables the terminal end portions of the electrical heating element to be readily exposed so as to be easily accessible for later connection to any one of a wide variety of lead/terminal connections. The assembly comprising a heater element having a plurality of end portions associated therewith, electrical insulation material positioned in surrounding relationship on at least two sides of the heater element, a housing member enclosing the heater element and insulation material, an opening extending through at least a portion of the insulating material located adjacent one side of the heater element and through at least a portion of the housing member, the heater element end portions extending through such openings so as to be readily exposed exterior of the housing member. This construction enables the basic heater unit to be fully fabricated and assembled without attaching a particular style of lead/terminal connection thereto. The present invention further includes the construction and operation of several embodiments of a specially adapted add-on lead/terminal cap or connection member which facilitates the adaptation and joinder of a wide variety of lead/terminal options to the present heater assembly.