Compacting uncured composite members on contoured mandrel surfaces

摘要

An uncured composite member is formed over a mandrel having a contour using a flexible compactor. Forming is performed outwardly from the apex of the contour.

主权项

1. A method of compacting an uncured composite member against a mandrel surface having a longitudinal contour and curing, comprising:
adhering the uncured composite member to a flexible elongate compactor using a suction force; using the compactor to align the uncured composite member with the longitudinal contour of the mandrel surface; using the compactor to bring the uncured composite member initially into contact with the mandrel surface at an apex of the longitudinal contour; forming the uncured composite member over the contour of the mandrel surface outwardly from the apex; using the compactor to compact the uncured composite member against the mandrel surface; and curing the uncured composite member between the mandrel surface and the compactor.