Abstract: A preform suitable for use in a resin transfer molding process comprising (1) one or more layers of a non-woven random mat and (2) one or more layers of a series of tows of unidirectional fibers held together by a polymeric curable resin film grid. The polymeric resin film is in the form of a grid, such that only a fraction of the surface area of the fibers contacts the resin film.

Abstract: A process for preparing a matrix resin composite contains the steps of: (1) preparing a preform containing multiple layer of reinforcing material and a crosslinkable tackifier by (a) applying the tackifier onto the reinforcing material, (b) compressing the layers of reinforcing material and partially crosslinking the tackifier under a pressure sufficient to compact the tackified, reinforcing layers to a volume which is less than their volume in the finished composite part and in a manner such that at least one surface of each of the reinforcing layers is or will be, during partially crosslinking, in direct contact with the tackifier, and (2) contacting the preform with a matrix resin.

Abstract: Links (48-50) tangential to the rotorshaft (30) and connected to the inner swashplate ring (38) center the swashplate and restrain it from rotating (in the case of a stationary inner ring) by attachment to gearbox lugs (34-36), or drive it in unison with the rotorshaft (in the case of a rotating inner ring) by attachment to rotorshaft flanges. Spherical (rod-end) bearings (52-54, 56-58) so that the links can accommodate collective and cyclic swashplate attitude changes by moving out of plane.Links (70-72) tangential to the outer swashplate ring (64) and connected thereto and to the airframe (74) perform a similar function in restraining, centering and allowing for collective/cyclic movement of a stationary outer swashplate ring.