Composite structure manufacturing method and apparatus

摘要

A manufacturing apparatus employs three-dimensional (3D) printing technology and computer numerical controlled (CNC) positioning technology that creates composite structures of any size. The composite structures exhibit predefined characteristics suitable for different applications. The composite structures consist of plastic sheathing melded together to form bladders, as well as fabric impregnated with one or more resin-based compounds. The composite structures assume any of a myriad of predefined shapes. The composite structures exhibit fire-resistance, water-resistance, water containment, phase-change capability, ballistic protection, low weight, and may further be operable as a solar panel or be electrically conductive. The composite structures are optionally constructed with vias or pathways, through which pipes, electrical conduit, and other building materials may be threaded. The 3D printing and CNC technologies create the composite structures by printing them, already inpregnated and selectively cured. The composite structures are optionally inflated so as to take on an intended shape.

主权项

1. A composite structure manufacturing method to create a composite structure, the method comprising:
stacking at least two sheaths comprising a predefined shape; melding the at least two sheaths in a pattern by applying heat and pressure to form a bladder capable of inflation; cutting away an area of the bladder to form a hole in the bladder; overlaying fabrics covering the hole on both faces of the bladder; impregnating at least the portion of the fabrics covering the hole with a resin-based compound to form impregnated fabric layers; making contact between the impregnated fabric layers to form a contact point; selectively curing the resin-based compound at the contact point to form a flat composite structure.