Conformable composite structural member and method therefor
AssigneeCompsys, Inc.
InventorScott M. Lewit
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A conformable composite reinforcing member (20) includes a cavity formed at least in part from a fabric layer (12) and at least a first foam core (16) and at least a second foam core (18) positioned within the cavity. The second foam core has a relatively higher rigidity than the first foam core. The first foam core is preferably made from an open cell or flexible foam and the second foam core is preferably made from a rigid open cell foam.
Claims25
A method of forming a structural member, comprising the steps of:
- providing a cavity formed at least in part from a fabric layer;
- inserting at least a first foam core within the cavity;
- and
- inserting at least a second foam core within the cavity, the second foam core having a relatively higher rigidity than the first foam core, wherein the second foam penetrates the fabric layer.
A method of forming a conformable composite reinforcing member, comprising the steps of:
- providing a cavity formed at least in part from a fabric layer by attaching a reinforcing fabric layer to a non-woven fabric layer forming an outside layer;
- inserting at least a first foam core within the cavity;
- and
- inserting at least a second foam core within the cavity wherein the second foam core is more rigid than the first foam core and wherein the second foam core penetrates the non-woven fabric layer.
A conformable composite reinforcing member, comprising:
- a cavity formed at least in part from a fabric layer;
- at least a first foam core located within the cavity;
- and
- at least a second foam core positioned within the cavity, wherein the first foam core and the second foam core have relatively different rigidity or density.
A method of forming a composite structure requiring a tight curvature using at least a structural member, comprising the steps of:
- providing the structural member wherein the structural member comprises a cavity formed at least in part from a fabric layer wherein a first foam core is inserted with the cavity and at least a second foam core is inserted within the cavity, the second foam core having a relatively higher rigidity than the first foam core, wherein the second foam penetrates the fabric layer;
- conforming the structural member to the tight curvature of the composite structure;
- hardening the structural member once the structural member is conformed to the tight curvature.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.