Multi-state bladder for manufacture of composite material
US9827720B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 10, 2015 |
| Grant date | Nov 28, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 2, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29K2995/0008
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Within examples, methods and systems for a multi-state bladder or elastomeric apparatus for manufacture of composite material are provided. In one example, the elastomeric apparatus comprises an elastomer housing, and magnetic components within the elastomer housing such that application of a magnetic field to the elastomer apparatus changes a rigidity state of the elastomer housing to a secondary state. The secondary state is supportive of a surface compaction applied to the elastomer housing. The elastomeric apparatus may also include rods within the housing extending along the housing, and the magnetic components are mounted to the rods in a rotatable manner. The magnetic components can react to a magnetic field in a way that aligns the magnetic components by rotating on the rods to cause the housing to have a rigid surface state, and to cause the housing to have a flexible surface state in absence of the magnetic field.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.