Abstract: A complex-shaped, three-dimensional fiber reinforced composite structure may be formed by using counteracting pressures applied to a structural lay-up of fiber plies. The fiber plies are arranged on a pressurizable member that may become an integral part of the final product, or may be removed before the product is finalized. The pressurizable member may take the form of a hollow blow molded or rotomolded thermoplastic component or a superplastic formed metallic component having an opening such that the pressurizable member may be vented or pressurized and thus expanded against the fiber plies. In addition, a number of the pressurizable members may be joined in fluid communication, where they may each have different configurations, yet be arranged to form a large, complex-shaped lay-up surface for the fiber plies. The arrangement of the fiber plies onto the pressurizable members may produce integral I-Beam stiffeners, ribs, flanges, and other complex shaped structural components.

Abstract: A complex-shaped, three-dimensional fiber reinforced composite structure may be formed by using counteracting pressures applied to a structural lay-up of fiber plies. The fiber plies are arranged on a pressurizable member that may become an integral part of the final product, or may be removed before the product is finalized. The pressurizable member may take the form of a hollow molded thermoplastic component or even a metallic component having an opening such that the pressurizable member may be pressurized and thus expanded against the fiber plies. In addition, a number of the pressurizable members may be joined in fluid communication and arranged to form a large, complex-shaped lay-up surface for the fiber plies. The arrangement of the fiber plies onto the pressurizable members may produce integral I-Beam stiffeners, ribs, flanges, and other complex shaped structural components. The fluid medium employed for pressurization may be a gas or a liquid.

Abstract: A glide slope antenna for receiving information transmitted from the ground, including elevation guidance for the final approach. The glide slope antenna is integrated with the aft nose wheel well door and utilizes the inherent electrical properties associated with the graphite/epoxy composite door.

Abstract: A fluid such as a fluidized bed or a molten bath, is heated to a temperature sufficiently high to soften a substantially rigid body of material and sufficiently low to avoid damage to the material. While maintaining the fluid at this temperature, the body is immersed in the fluid to heat the body uniformly. Pressure is applied to the heated body to form it into a desired three-dimensional configuration. The heated body is removed from the fluid either before, after, and/or while the pressure is applied. The body is allowed to cool and harden into its desired configuration. The body is preferably formed between a flexible member and a mold surface. The method may be used to form various types of material, including honeycomb core, laminated sheets of plastic, plastic tubing, and titanium. The body may be precut and indexed and secured to a mold which is immersed in the fluid with the body.

Abstract: A method for curing fiber-reinforced resin matrix composite materials (22) includes the steps of providing a form (14) and positioning uncured composite material (22) on the form (14) substantially into a desired shape. The composite material (22) is then cured by providing a fluid bath (10) heated to a predetermined temperature, and heating the composite material (22) by immersing the positioned composite material (22) on the form (14) into the fluid bath (10) for a predetermined time. The predetermined time is sufficient to allow the composite material (22) to become cured and to heat the composite material (22) at a rate sufficient to provide resin flow prior to hardening. Compressive pressure is provided on the composite material (22) while it is immersed in the fluid bath (10).