摘要 |
A complex-shaped, three-dimensional fiber reinforced composite structure may be formed by using counteracting pressures applied to a structural lay-up of fiber plies. The fiber plies are arranged on a pressurizable member that may become an integral part of the final product, or may be removed before the product is finalized. The pressurizable member may take the form of a hollow molded thermoplastic component or even a metallic component having an opening such that the pressurizable member may be pressurized and thus expanded against the fiber plies. In addition, a number of the pressurizable members may be joined in fluid communication and arranged to form a large, complex-shaped lay-up surface for the fiber plies. The arrangement of the fiber plies onto the pressurizable members may produce integral I-Beam stiffeners, ribs, flanges, and other complex shaped structural components. The fluid medium employed for pressurization may be a gas or a liquid.
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