Method and apparatus for contouring composite pre-preg articles

摘要

A forming tool and method for its use with flat pre-preg composite laminate assemblies which incorporates a mandrel segmented into multiple forming blocks, the forming blocks sized to receive a draped composite laminate assembly with all portions of the composite laminate assembly spaced from a shaping surface on each block. A spline plate engages the shaping surface of the forming blocks to provide a neutral axis for maintaining the entire composite laminate assembly in tension during forming. In the exemplary embodiments, the draped composite laminate assembly is formed to the forming blocks from the flat composite laminate assembly and maintained in contact with the forming blocks using a vacuum bag. The mandrel forming blocks arc then displaced to a desired curvature on the spline plate.

主权项

1. A method for forming of pre-preg structural members comprising the steps of:
providing a mandrel having a plurality of forming blocks in segments, said forming blocks sized to receive a draped composite laminate assembly; draping the composite laminate assembly on the mandrel maintaining all portions of the composite laminate assembly spaced from at least one shaping surface on each block during draping; providing a saddle with at least one spline plate; mounting the mandrel on the saddle; maintaining the draped composite laminate assembly in contact with the forming blocks; and, relaxing the shaping surfaces of the forming blocks onto the at least one spline plate, the forming blocks conforming to a curvature of the at least one spline plate to maintain the composite laminate assembly in tension.