Abstract: Systems and methods for curing complex fiber-reinforced composite structures utilize two distinct heat sources. A first heat source is utilized for heating a complex fiber-reinforced composite structure from within an internal portion of the complex fiber-reinforced composite structure. A second heat source is utilized for heating the complex fiber-reinforced composite structure from an external surface of the complex fiber-reinforced composite structure.

Abstract: A structural core and associated method of forming such structure is disclosed. The structure includes a single layer of at least two rows of hollow pyramid-like structures. The hollow pyramid-like structures dampen acoustic noise and provide a truss-like structure that provides a high level of stiffness against transverse loads, shear stresses and side-loading. The hollow pyramid-like structures preferably have upward facing and downward facing open bases, and are formed in rows and columns. To aid in sound attenuation, the single layer is formed from a partially porous material, a woven thermoplastic, woven carbon fiber, fiberglass and paper. To provide additional structural integrity, the single layer is formed from a solid non-porous material such as a metal. The structural core may be included within outer panels to form acoustical or structural panels.

Abstract: Systems and methods for curing complex fiber-reinforced composite structures utilize two distinct heat sources. A first heat source is utilized for heating a complex fiber-reinforced composite structure from within an internal portion of the complex fiber-reinforced composite structure. A second heat source is utilized for heating the complex fiber-reinforced composite structure from an external surface of the complex fiber-reinforced composite structure.

Abstract: A structural core and associated method of forming such structure is disclosed. The structure includes a single layer of at least two rows of hollow pyramid-like structures. The hollow pyramid-like structures dampen acoustic noise and provide a truss-like structure that provides a high level of stiffness against transverse loads, shear stresses and side-loading. The hollow pyramid-like structures preferably have upward facing and downward facing open bases, and are formed in rows and columns. To aid in sound attenuation, the single layer is formed from a partially porous material, a woven thermoplastic, woven carbon fiber, fiberglass and paper. To provide additional structural integrity, the single layer is formed from a solid non-porous material such as a metal. The structural core may be included within outer panels to form acoustical or structural panels.

Abstract: A blade stringer for a composite panel having an inside surface includes a proximal section, comprising a web attached to and extending approximately perpendicularly from the inside surface of the panel, and a free distal end. The web has a thickness and a height, and includes a plurality of continuous composite plies. The free distal end has a plurality of local plies interleaved and co-cured with the continuous plies, the distal end defining a bulb having a thickness that is greater than the web thickness and less than about a third of the web height.

Abstract: A folded core panel disclosed herein that includes a folded core having peaks and valleys characterized by a corrugated zigzag pattern. The folded core may include an airflow channel. The airflow channel may provide an egress to reduce the concentration of moisture in the folded core. The folded core may be formed from a single piece of material. The folded core may have varying face slopes depending on the force distribution requirements at the location of the peak. One or more folded cores may be stacked to form a stacked core.