Composite structure and related method to obtain it
US8263200B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 29, 2008 |
| Grant date | Sep 11, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 28, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/139
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method of making a composite structure (1) that comprises a curved body (5) and an integral rim (3) extending from an end of the curved body. The method comprises the steps of: forming a diaphragm pack (19) comprising a flat stack (13) of composite plies between two diaphragms (15 A, 15B), wherein each ply (L1, L2, L3) of the flat stack (13) is made up of a plurality of composite tiles (9). Each tile (9) includes at least a first portion (9A) and a second portion (9B) that have side edges of the first portion (9A) configured to abut against side edges of adjacent tiles and side edges of the second portion (9B) configured to overlap side edges of adjacent tiles. Air is evacuated from within the diaphragm pack (19) either before or after placing the diaphragm pack (19) within a double diaphragm forming apparatus comprising a hollow forming tool (23), wherein the first portion (9A) of the composite tiles (9) is supported on an upper surface (23 A) of the tool (23). Heat (25) is applied to the diaphragm pack (19); when the stack reaches the forming temperature a vacuum (Pv) is applied between the lower diaphragm (15B) and the hollow forming tool (23) such the second portion (9B) of t…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.