Self-tooling composite structure
OwnerAbe Kareminventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Composite structures with internal cavities are constructed with relatively stiff walls that can support additional composite laminate layers, creating a self-tooling structure. The structure is subsequently simulcured, preferably in combination with elevated temperatures or pressures. Preferred structures are long and slender, and are constructed with one or more internal cells. Rotor blades are especially suited to the preferred construction methods. The walls can be advantageously constructed using composite sandwich panels, having an exterior laminate layer. In preferred embodiments, additional composite layers can be added before or after the simulcuring process.
Claims11
A method of producing a laminated object having an elongated core box that defines a cavity, comprising:
- producing first, second, third, and fourth partially cured composite self-supporting sandwich panels, each of the panels having two long edges, and each of the panels comprising at least 2 mm of core material surrounded by a composite face sheet having at least a thickness of 0.1 mm;
- joining the first, second, third and fourth panels such that the long edges of the panels form the four corners of the elongated core box;
- using the elongated box as a scaffold to add a composite layer that is at least partially not self-supporting;
- and
- simulcuring the box and the composite layers.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.