Systems and methods for manufacturing large contoured parts from thermoplastic laminate sheets
US12172396B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 3, 2023 |
| Grant date | Dec 24, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 3, 2043 |
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 includes a mold having a contoured forming surface. The system also includes at least one tension strap, configured to attach to a consolidated laminate sheet, and a heating assembly, positioned relative to the mold and configured to supply heat to the consolidated laminate sheet, when attached to the at least one tension strap, to form a heated consolidated laminate sheet. The system additionally includes a strap retraction mechanism, configured to retract the at least one tension strap, when attached to the consolidated laminate sheet, to force the heated consolidated laminate sheet against the contoured forming surface of the mold. The heating assembly includes a flexible heating element configured to flex to conform to a shape of the heated consolidated laminate sheet as the heated consolidated laminate sheet is forced against the contoured forming surface of the mold.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.