Utilization of CNC Machining in Composite Part Rework
AssigneeThe Boeing Company
InventorsHongda Zhang, Yee-Ying Chung, Steven Dysievick, Michael Victor Forster
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A method for repairing a composite structure is provided. A rework zone is defined on the composite structure. A theoretical scarfing bottom surface is identified for the rework zone from a model of the composite structure. An actual scarfing bottom surface in a local axis system is identified for the rework zone. Parameters for a rework program for an automated scarfing tool are modified based on deviations between the theoretical scarfing bottom surface and the actual scarfing bottom surface. Plies in the rework zone are removed using the automated scarfing tool.
Claims20
A method for repairing a composite structure, the method comprising:
- defining a rework zone on the composite structure;
- identifying a theoretical scarfing bottom surface for the rework zone from a model of the composite structure;
- identifying an actual scarfing bottom surface in a local axis system for the rework zone;
- modifying parameters for a rework program for an automated scarfing tool based on deviations between the theoretical scarfing bottom surface and the actual scarfing bottom surface;
- and
- removing plies in the rework zone using the automated scarfing tool.
A composite repair system comprising:
- an automated scarfing tool configured to remove plies in a rework zone of a composite structure;
- a database comprising a model of the composite structure having a theoretical scarfing bottom surface;
- and
- a computer system configured to identify an actual scarfing bottom surface in a local axis system for the rework zone and modify parameters for a rework program for the automated scarfing tool based on deviations between the theoretical scarfing bottom surface and the actual scarfing bottom surface.
A method for repairing a composite structure, the method comprising:
- defining a rework zone on the composite structure;
- separating the rework zone into sections;
- identifying a theoretical scarfing bottom surface for each of the sections of the rework zone from a model of the composite structure;
- measuring reference locations in each of the sections of the rework zone;
- identifying an actual scarfing bottom surface for each of the sections of the rework zone based on measurements collected at the reference locations;
- and
- modifying parameters for a rework program for an automated scarfing tool based on deviations between the measurements collected at the reference locations.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.