Systems and methods for assembling elongate composite structures

US11820081B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The Boeing Company · US

Inventors

• Daniel M. Rotter · Lake Forest Park, US
• Brad Andrew Coxon · Everett, US
• Gabriel Zane Forston · Lake Stevens, US
• Jake Adam Reeves · Newcastle, US
• Khanh Mai Pham · Renton, US
• Stephen Lee Metschan · Black Diamond, US
• Patrick Shephard · Woodinville, US
• John D. Morris · Seattle, US
• Steven Philip Hansen · Everett, US
• Brian Dodgson · Seattle, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Aug 9, 2021
• Grant date: Nov 21, 2023
• Expiry date: Oct 29, 2041

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B32B2605/18
• WIPO field: Other special machines
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Systems and methods for assembling elongate composite structures are disclosed. The systems include a first rigid elongate cure tool defining a first elongate support surface for supporting a first elongate charge of composite material (FEC), a second rigid elongate cure tool defining a second elongate support surface for supporting a second elongate charge of composite material (SEC), and a flexible elongate caul plate. The systems further include a vacuum compaction film, a translation structure, and a vacuum source. Methods according to the present disclosure include positioning a vacuum compaction film, positioning a flexible elongate caul plate, and positioning an FEC. The methods further include positioning an SEC, contacting a region of the FEC with a region of the SEC, sealing the vacuum compaction film, evacuating the enclosed volume to generate an elongate composite assembly, and heating the elongate composite assembly to define the elongate composite structure.