Continuous wound composite truss structures

摘要

Ultra-efficient composite truss structures and methods for manufacturing the same using low cost and high throughput winding processes are presented. The present disclosure describes combining the high structural efficiency of truss structures with the excellent mechanical properties of composite materials using processes that mitigate the high manufacturing costs typical of composite materials. The present disclosure further describes creating the members of the truss structure through continuous winding of either thermoset or thermoplastic matrix, fiber reinforced composite members around a central mandrel. The longitudinal chord members of the truss are held in position by the mandrel, and the web members are wrapped under the chord members, over them, or both. The web members are bonded to the chord members during manufacture to produce a single consolidated truss structure.

主权项

1. A truss structure manufactured using a winding process, the process comprising the steps of:
fastening at least two chord members in proximity to each other around at least one mandrel; operatively connecting the at least one mandrel and the at least two chord members to a winding apparatus; actuating the winding apparatus to rotate the at least one mandrel and the at least two chord members to wind material around at least the two chord members from a first location to a second location which is spaced apart from the first location wherein winding the material around the at least two chord members creates a portion of the truss structure; and removing each of the at least one mandrel after completion of the actuating step.