Large composite core structures formed by vacuum assisted resin transfer molding
US5904972A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 25, 1997 |
| Grant date | May 18, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 25, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/24744
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Large composite structures are produced using a vacuum assisted resin transfer molding process. The structures incorporate cores, which may be hollow cells or foam blocks. A plurality of cores, each of which may be wrapped with a fiber material, is arranged in a layer on a mold with a fiber material arranged to form face skins. The assembly is sealed under a vacuum bag to a mold surface. One or more main feeder conduits are provided in communication with a resin distribution network of smaller channels which facilitates flow of uncured resin into and through the fiber material. The resin distribution network may comprise a network of grooves formed in the surfaces or the cores and/or rounded corners of the cores. The network of smaller channels may also be provided between the vacuum bag and the fiber material, either integrally in the vacuum bag or via a separate distribution medium. Resin, introduced under vacuum, travels relatively quickly through the main feeder channel(s) and the network of smaller channels. After penetrating the fiber material to reach the surface of the cores, the resin again travels relatively quickly along the cores via the grooves in the cores or the spac…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.