Patents by Inventor Stuart A. Smith

Stuart A. Smith has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Mandrel and method for manufacturing composite structures
    Patent number: 7138031
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for retaining composite structures, such as composite honeycomb structures, during manufacture are provided. The composite structure is cured on a mandrel that defines a layup surface with a grip feature. The grip feature is configured to engage the composite structure during manufacture and retain the structure in a predetermined configuration. A film adhesive can be provided between the grip feature and a tiedown ply that extends from the composite structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Dave G. Erickson, Panagiotis E. George, Ryan C. Mortensen, Stuart A. Smith
  • Method for reducing core crush
    Patent number: 6698484
    Abstract: We reduce core crush in honeycomb sandwich structure by using a peripheral tiedown ply, generally in combination with a scrim-reinforced barrier film, between the composite laminate and the core along the panel chamfer to prevent slipping of the barrier film and outer laminates relative to the core during curing. We produce superior panels with lighter weights, improved mechanical properties, and more predictable structural performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Darrell H. Corbett, Stuart A. Smith
  • Tiedown ply for reducing core crush in composite honeycomb sandwich structure
    Patent number: 5895699
    Abstract: We reduce core crush in honeycomb sandwich structure by using a peripheral tiedown ply, generally in combination with a scrim-reinforced barrier film, between the composite laminate and the core along the panel chamfer to prevent slipping of the barrier film and outer laminates relative to the core during curing. We produce superior panels with lighter weights, improved mechanical properties, and more predictable structural performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Darrell H. Corbett, Stuart A. Smith