Inventors:
Allan T. Tucci - Orange CA
Assignee:
McDonnell Douglas Corporation - Long Beach CA
International Classification:
B29D 302, B29G 100, B29C 1714
Abstract:
The inventive method is used to make 3-Dimensional reinforced and flanged parts from filaments which are braided or wound flat (parallel to the surface of a mandrel).
The method comprises the steps of:
depositing a first layer of impregnated reinforcements on a mandrel parallel to the surface of the mandrel;
placing separators on a portion of said first layer;
depositing a second layer of impregnated reinforcements over the separators and said first layer;
cutting said layers at the separators;
removing said layers from the mandrel;
parting the layers along said separators;
removing said separators from said reinforcements;
placing said cut and partially separated layers in a mold;
conforming the layers to the shape of the mold;
curing said impregnated reinforcements into a composite part; and
removing said composite part from said mold.