Ultraviolet curing system and method

An ultraviolet (UV) curing system that is configured to cure a composite structure, the UV curing system comprising:

• a plurality of UV light assemblies that are configured to adaptively conform to a shape of the composite structure, wherein each of the plurality of UV light assemblies comprises a housing coupled to a UV light emitter that is configured to emit UVB light energy into the composite structure;
• a plurality of first pivot beams pivotally coupled between housings of at least two of the plurality of UV light assemblies;
• a carrier bracket including a handle;
• a plurality of second pivot beams pivotally coupled between at least one housing of the plurality of UV light assemblies and the carrier bracket;
• a flexible drape positioned over and between at least portions of the plurality of UV light assemblies, wherein the flexible drape comprises a reflecting interior surface and a light-blocking exterior surface;
• spacing caps coupled to the plurality of UV light assemblies, wherein the spacing caps are configured to space the plurality of UV light assemblies from the composite structure a defined distance, wherein the spacing caps are shaped as circular disks, wherein at least one of the spacing caps includes an annular ridge, and wherein at least one other of the spacing caps includes an annular groove that is configured to receive and retain at least a portion of the annular ridge;
• and
• a retainer that is configured to couple to protuberances extending from the spacing caps in order to securely retain the plurality of UV light assemblies in a fixed position.