Methods and systems for identifying processing locations in composite layups

Abstract

Described are methods and systems for identifying processing locations in composite layups. An optical magnetic marker is magnetically supported by a layup tool at a target position, such that a portion of the marker protrudes above the tool processing surface. When a composite layup is placed onto that surface, the protruding portion extends into the layup at a processing location. When the layup is cured, the marker is permanently embedded into the layup. Separating the cured layup from the tool removes the marker from the tool and allows an additional marker to advance into the target position for processing another layup. The embedded marker or, more specifically, marker's reflective surface is used during optical inspection of the layup surface to precisely determine the processing location. In some examples, the marker is consumed while the layup is processed at that location,

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