Apparatus and methods for forming composite stiffeners and reinforcing structures
US7513769B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 30, 2004 |
| Grant date | Apr 7, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 8, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/24995
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus are provided for forming elongated composite structural members with a desired cross-sectional geometry as taken transverse to the length of the member. An apparatus may include a base with a substantially elongated mandrel mounted thereon. One or more rollers configured to at least partially complementarily engage the mandrel are configured to roll over and press one or more plies of composite material onto the mandrel. The mandrel may be disposed on a rotary table and configured to exhibit a curved elongated geometry to form at least partially curved or arcuate elongated members. The present invention enables the formation of elongated structural members from resin impregnated materials while maintaining the materials in a substantially uncured state. The formed members may then be cocured with a skin or other composite structure.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.