Lightning strike protection for composite aircraft structures
US5132168A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 5, 1990 |
| Grant date | Jul 21, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 5, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T442/3041
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A composite structure for aircraft having features making it resistant to structural damage when subjected to lightning strikes. Fiber tow is wound over a rotating shaping surface which is a surface of revolution. Spaced bands of tow are laid down in a helical pattern with varying spaces between bands. Some bands are typically wound at an angle of about +45.degree.. By selectively winding in one direction and then the other, a "basketweave" pattern is obtained. Typically, the tow consists of high strength fibers in a thermosetting or thermoplastic resin matrix wound to a four layer thickness. When cured, the structure has high strength and low weight and is excellent for structures such as aircraft engine cowls. The basketweave pattern gives excellent resistance to peeling and delamination upon being struck by lightning, the types of damage which are likely to occur with the usual hoop or other continuous windings. The resistance to lightning strikes is further increased by winding one or more conductive filaments in a helical pattern, under tension, over the structure before the resin is cured. The conductive filaments serve to dissipate lightning energy over a large area and carr…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.