Systems and methods for manufacturing large contoured parts from thermoplastic laminate sheets
US11642859B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 4, 2020 |
| Grant date | May 9, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 26, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29K2105/12
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system for manufacturing a part that includes a mold, a first fixation component, fixed to the mold, second fixation components, each configured to be fixed to a consolidated laminate sheet, third fixation components, each fixed to the mold. The system also includes tension straps. The first fixation component is configured to attach the consolidated laminate sheet to the mold so that the consolidated laminate sheet does not translationally move relative to the forming surface of the mold. Each one of the second fixation components is configured to attach the tension straps to the consolidated laminate sheet. Each one of the third fixation components is configured to attach the tension straps to the mold so that the tension straps are movable relative to the mold. The system also includes a heating assembly and a strap retraction mechanism, configured to retract the tension strap.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.