Abstract: A stamp-forming system includes a lower die formed of elastomeric material and having lower die lateral sides. In addition, the stamp-forming system includes a die wall configured to encircle the lower die lateral sides, and move vertically relative to the lower die. Also included in the stamp-forming system is an upper die configured to move between an open position in which the upper die is separated from the die wall and the lower die, and a clamped position in which the upper die is in contact with the die wall and applying clamping pressure to a blank against the lower die, to thereby form the blank into a formed article. The die wall is sized and configured to prevent lateral expansion of the lower die when the lower die is vertically compressed by the clamping pressure applied by the upper die.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a wrinkle coupon includes providing a thermoplastic laminate having a laminate outer surface and opposing laminate side edges, and comprised of multiple plies. Each ply is comprised of reinforcing fibers pre-impregnated with thermoplastic resin. The method additionally includes placing a wrinkle-forming element across the laminate outer surface such that the wrinkle-forming element extends between the laminate side edges. In addition, the method includes applying heat to the thermoplastic laminate, and applying compaction pressure on the wrinkle-forming element against the laminate outer surface in a manner urging the wrinkle-forming element into the thermoplastic laminate, and causing the wrinkle-forming element to form a wrinkle as an out-of-plane deformation in one or more of the plies. The method also includes allowing the thermoplastic laminate to cool, and cutting a wrinkle coupon out of a region of the thermoplastic laminate containing the wrinkle.