US 7,527,759 B2 · Method and apparatus for forming structural members

Abstract

A method and associated apparatus for forming a composite structural member from a charge are provided. The charge can be disposed on a first die of the apparatus and formed to a desired configuration defined by a recess of the die by inserting a second die or a tool into the recess. In some cases, the first die can include two portions that are adjustable in a transverse direction so that the recess can be opened by the insertion of the second die or tool. The second die or tool can be a substantially rigid member or an inflatable bladder. In either case, the charge can be disposed on the first die, formed, and then further processed on the first die, thereby facilitating indexing of the charge for each operation.

Claims10

Dependent claims

A method for forming a fiber-reinforced resin composite structural member from a charge, the method comprising:

providing first and second incompressible dies extending in a longitudinal direction, the first die having first and second portions, the portions being adjustable in transverse directions between first and second positions and being structured in the second position to cooperatively define a recess between the portions configured to at least partially receive the second die;
disposing a charge between the first and second dies;
and
inserting the second die at least partially into the recess defined by the first die, wherein inserting the second die comprises causing the portions of the first die to move transversely outward and away from one another as a result of inserting the second die at least partially into the recess with the charge being formed between the first and second dies to the configuration of the structural member.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Method and apparatus for forming structural members

Life of this patent

Method and apparatus for forming structural members

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims10