Methods and systems for forming integral composite parts with a SMP apparatus
US8945325B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 21, 2011 |
| Grant date | Feb 3, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 27, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T156/1043
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for fabricating a composite part, such as a fuselage or internal stiffener, with a shape memory polymer (SMP) apparatus usable as a rigid lay-up tool. The SMP apparatus may be heated until malleable, shaped, and then cooled in a desired rigid tool configuration. For example, cavities may be formed into the SMP apparatus for nesting components therein to co-bond or co-cure with the composite part. The composite material and/or nested components may be heated and compressed against the SMP apparatus. The SMP apparatus may be configured to remain rigid during the composite cure cycle. Once the composite material is cured, the SMP apparatus may be triggered to a malleable state and urged away from the cured composite material.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.