Composite connectors and methods of manufacturing the same
US12311617B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 21, 2023 |
| Grant date | May 27, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 21, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29L2023/00
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of manufacturing a composite (e.g. fibre-reinforced polymer) connector for a fluid transfer conduit includes: manufacturing a continuous fibre pre-form net that is shaped to comprise a hub-forming portion 156 and a flange-forming portion, the continuous fibre pre-form net comprising continuous fibre reinforcement and a common support layer to which the continuous fibre reinforcement is secured by being stitched thereto; placing the continuous fibre pre-form net into a mould, the mould being shaped such that the hub-forming portion forms a tubular hub portion which extends along a central axis and the flange-forming portion forms a flange portion which extends from the hub portion at an angle to the central axis; and introducing polymer into the mould so as to form a composite connector comprising the flange portion and the hub portion.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.