Inventors:
Bryan Bergsma - Spokane WA, US
Tom Courrier - Coeur D Alene ID, US
W. Forrest Frantz - North Bend WA, US
John Hennessy - Cheney WA, US
Assignee:
The Boeing Company - Chicago IL
International Classification:
B29C 53/04
US Classification:
425363, 425373, 425392, 425DIG 14
Abstract:
There are provided apparatuses and related methods for forming sheets. The formed sheets can be formed of a thermoplastic material, such as flat sheets of reinforced thermoplastic, which can be lightweight, strong, and perform well in flammability, smoke, and toxicity tests. The apparatus includes a heater for heating the sheet to a processing temperature and a structure for configuring the sheet to a desired shape using one or more rollers, shapers, longitudinal members, and/or support members.