Method for forming a composite airfoil structure
US5939006A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 6, 1997 |
| Grant date | Aug 17, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 6, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29C70/46
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and a system for forming a composite airfoil structure from a preform composite airfoil structure made from resin impregnated prepreg plies. The preform is shaped with a mold having a stationary lower mold and an upper mold. The preform is inserted in the lower mold and the upper mold is then moved towards the lower mold. The preform is compressed with the upper and lower mold, providing a contact between the upper mold, the preform, and the lower mold. Extra resin from the preform is removed through the leading edge and trailing edge. During the compression molding process, the shear stress on the plies of the preform is balanced, hence eliminating ply movement and preventing wrinkles from occurring. In addition, the length of the resin flow path is reduced, which decreases the mold force requirement, shear stresses, and thus wrinkles.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.