Apparatus and method for manufacturing liquid molded composites using a discrete network of tool surface resin distribution grooves

    公开(公告)号:US10807324B2

    公开(公告)日:2020-10-20

    申请号:US16054106

    申请日:2018-08-03

    摘要: A tool and its method of use direct a flow of liquid resin through a preform. The tool has a tool surface with a channel recessed into the tool surface to a bottom surface of the channel. A plate is positioned on the tool surface covering over the channel with the plate being supported by the tool in the channel spaced above the bottom surface of the channel and with the top surface of the plate positioned coplanar with the tool surface of the tool. A preform is positioned on the tool surface with the preform covering over the plate. A flow of liquid resin is supplied to the tool surface and a pressure differential communicating with the tool surface draws the flow of liquid resin into the channel, through the channel and through a plurality of perforations through the plate and into the preform.

    Modular tool inserts for composite part manufacturing and related methods

    公开(公告)号:US11285678B2

    公开(公告)日:2022-03-29

    申请号:US16161878

    申请日:2018-10-16

    摘要: Modular tool inserts for composite part manufacturing and related methods are described herein. An example method includes disposing a preform and a diaphragm assembly above a tool housing and disposing the diaphragm assembly on an upper perimeter surface of the tool housing that defines a cavity. The tool housing includes a docking station and a modular tool insert removably coupled to the docking station. The modular tool insert includes a mold disposed within the cavity. The method includes applying a vacuum within the cavity that pulls the diaphragm assembly, along with the preform, into the cavity such that the preform conforms to a shape of the mold. The method includes removing excess portions of the diaphragm assembly from around the modular tool insert and removing the modular tool insert, along with the diaphragm assembly and the preform, from the docking station.