Abstract:
A method for repeatably fabricating a test specimen assembly comprising a pair of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) test specimens adhesively bonded together, the bonded joint having respective areas of substantially different, but consistent variable adhesive bond strengths suitable as a calibration standard. The method comprises fabricating a first FRP test specimen having a bonding surface with first and second areas that have substantially different bonded joint performance-governing characteristics and then using adhesive to bond the bonding surface of the first FRP test specimen to the bonding surface of a second FRP test specimen. The different bonded joint performance-governing characteristics are achieved by treating first and second areas of the surface of the first FRP test specimen using different respective surface preparation techniques.
Abstract:
Composite sections for aircraft fuselages and other structures, and methods and systems for manufacturing such sections, are disclosed herein. A method for manufacturing a shell structure in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes applying composite material to an interior mold surface of a tool to form a skin extending 360 degrees around an axis. The method can further include positioning a plurality of stiffeners on an inner surface of the skin. After the stiffeners have been positioned, a vacuum bag can be installed over the stiffeners and evacuated to press the stiffeners and the skin outwardly against the interior mold surface of the tool. Next, the skin/stiffener combination can be cocured to bond the stiffeners to the skin and harden the shell structure.
Abstract:
A laminated composite rod includes a rod body having a generally circular or oval cross-section and comprising a plurality of laminated composite plies disposed at various orientations with respect to each other.
Abstract:
Laminate structures and methods for forming same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a laminate structure includes a metal-polymer composite lamina. The metal-polymer composite lamina has a first face and a second face spaced apart, and extends to a terminal edge. The lamina includes a ply of fiber-reinforced polymer that extends between the first face and the second face and has an interior edge. The interior edge defines at least one cutout. A ply of metal foil extends between the first face and the second face substantially from the interior edge filling the at least one cutout.
Abstract:
Composite panels used in aircraft are formed by a sandwich including a lightweight honeycomb core reinforced by a solid plank in medial regions of the panel. The plank is bonded to the honeycomb and forms an integral part of the core where a strut is attached to the panel. The plank distributes point loads imposed on the panel by the strut.
Abstract:
Embodiments of methods and apparatus for providing a double shear joint for bonding in structural applications are disclosed. In one embodiment, a bonded composite joint includes a base having a foot configured to couple to a member, the base including a flange extending outward from the foot. The joint further includes a panel having a core configured between opposing skins, the skins having inner walls proximate the core, the skins extending outward beyond the core on at least one end of the panel to define a recess between the skins, the recess configured to receive the flange. A bonding agent is used to couple the flange to the inner walls of the panel.
Abstract:
A bonded composite joint may include a base having a foot configured to couple to a member. The base may include a flange extending outward from the foot. The joint further may include a panel having a core positioned between opposing skins, where the skins have inner walls proximate the core and the skins extend outward beyond the core on at least one end of the panel to define a recess between the skins. The recess between the skins may receive the flange. A bonding agent may be used to couple the flange to the inner walls of the panel.
Abstract:
An airplane fairing panel adjustable fitting assembly allows for installation and removal of a fairing panel from outside the fairing. Blind retention features are provided and a pivoting link structure is facilitated to accommodate flexing of an aircraft structure in use. Kits and methods of attaching fairing panels are also disclosed.
Abstract:
An airplane fairing panel adjustable fitting assembly allows for installation and removal of a fairing panel from outside the fairing. Blind retention features are provided and a pivoting link structure is facilitated to accommodate flexing of an aircraft structure in use. Kits and methods of attaching fairing panels are also disclosed.