IMPROVEMENTS RELATING TO THE FORMATION OF REINFORCED STRUCTURES

摘要

An open mould portion (1) is formed with channels (2) within which are laid fibres under controlled tension. The fibres are passed throughout all portions of the channel (2) and are positioned about posts (3) within the channels (2), at strategic points. A suitable resin is then poured into the open mould (1) to impregnate the fibres. A closure portion (4) for the mould is then laid on top of the open mould (1) so that the posts (3) pass through openings (5) within the closure portion (4). As the mould is closed the fibres wound around the posts (3) are compressed downwardly into the open mould (1) and the resin is also compressed. Excess resin and air will escape through the joint line or breather holes (not shown). The resin is then cured (possibly using heat) and the mould is opened so that the formed component can be extracted. The flexibility of the parts of the component can vary depending upon the ratio of resin to fibres, the degree of compression achieved and the thickness created for those parts.