Methods and systems for initiating layer separation within a multilayer composite structure
AssigneeThe Boeing Company
InventorsLuis F. Velasquez, Allen J. Halbritter
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Abstract
A method for initiating separation of a first layer from a second layer of a multilayer composite structure having a free edge, the method includes steps of securing the multilayer composite structure to a work surface; and applying cyclic pressure to at least a portion of the free edge of the multilayer composite structure.
Claims20
A method for initiating separation of a first layer from a second layer of a multilayer composite structure having a free edge, the method comprising:
- securing the multilayer composite structure to a work surface;
- and
- applying cyclic pressure to at least a portion of the free edge of the multilayer composite structure,
- wherein the applying the cyclic pressure comprises defining a pressure chamber such that the portion of the free edge of the multilayer composite structure is received within the pressure chamber, and
- wherein the pressure chamber is at least partially defined by sealingly engaging a pressure housing with the multilayer composite structure.
A method for initiating separation of a first layer from a second layer of a multilayer composite structure having a free edge, wherein one of the first layer and the second layer comprises a composite ply and another of the first layer and the second layer comprises a backing film connected to the composite ply, the method comprising:
- securing the multilayer composite structure to a work surface;
- cutting a bulk sheet of multilayer composite material to yield the multilayer composite structure and a peripheral portion separated from the multilayer composite structure by a cut line;
- and
- applying cyclic pressure to at least a portion of the free edge of the multilayer composite structure while engaging the multilayer composite structure with a vibrating cantilever beam,
- wherein the applying the cyclic pressure comprises defining a pressure chamber such that the portion of the free edge of the multilayer composite structure is received within a pressure chamber, and
- wherein the pressure chamber is at least partially defined by sealingly engaging a pressure housing with the multilayer composite structure.
A system for separating a first layer from a second layer of a multilayer composite structure having a free edge, the system comprising:
- a work surface to which the multilayer composite structure is secured;
- and
- a pressure housing that sealingly engages with the multilayer composite structure to define a pressure chamber, wherein a pressure within the pressure chamber is cycled to initiate separation of the first layer from the second layer.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.