Composite panel
AssigneeComposite Technologies International, LLC
InventorStephen S. Gleason
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A composite panel for use in applications such as mobile homes, boats, buses, RVs, or other panels used typically in transportation applications, where a single piece, water resistant, lightweight panel with patterned high-strength areas is needed. The composite panel generally includes internal preforms made of low-density material such as urethane foam, which create patterned structural portions of the panel during the molding process. The patterned structural portions are formed by a maze-like region within a mold, into which composite matrix material is infused. The patterned structural portions have high strength compared to the other regions of the panel, and can be used for structural support or for retaining fasteners for appliances, walls, etc.
Claims20
A composite panel, comprising:
- a first panel surface;
- a second panel surface;
- an internal preform positioned between the first panel surface and the second panel surface, wherein the internal preform comprises a first side and a second side, wherein the first side of the internal preform faces the first panel surface, wherein the second side of the internal preform faces the second panel surface;
- and
- a structural portion at least partially surrounding the internal preform so as to form a patterned structural area;
- wherein the structural portion comprises a first layer portion adjacent the first side of the internal preform;
- wherein the structural portion is comprised of a cured composite material, wherein a density of the cured composite material is greater than a density of the internal preform.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.