×

Partially automated fabrication of composite parts

  • US 8,088,317 B1
  • Filed: 11/17/2010
  • Issued: 01/03/2012
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/03/2008
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A method of producing a composite part of an aircraft, comprising in sequence:

  • manufacturing a low-temp male mold from a material selected from the group consisting of a soft plastic and a foam, the material permanently deforming at or below an upper limit temperature that is no greater than 180°

    F., using computer numerically controlled machining;

    adding a plurality of composite layers to the male mold to create a female tool and at least partially curing the female tool at a primary cure temperature below the upper limit temperature, while at least a portion of the female tool is coupled to at least a portion of the male mold;

    separating at least the portion of the female tool from the portion of the male mold;

    curing the female tool at a secondary cure temperature above the upper limit temperature;

    depositing a first composite material on the female tool, in a freestanding fashion, to create the composite part; and

    hand touching up the composite part to meet a specification.

View all claims
  • 0 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×