System, method, apparatus, and applications for open cell woven structural supports

摘要

An open cell or highly porous woven composite truss utilizes fibers of carbon, glass, ceramic, or the like that are woven together in a loom. The warps or tow are woven with the wefts, while the fibers are impregnated with resin. The resin impregnation step may be performed before or after the weaving step. The truss is then cured on the loom and later may be machined as needed. A rigid foam material may be used to stabilize the shape of the truss prior to curing and while machining. The foam may be later chemically dissolved or otherwise disposed of.