A flexible molding component used with a base mold improves on existing
methods of forming fiber reinforced composite parts. The molding
component is formed of a flexible body structure having an interfacing
surface and a perimeter region including a perimeter seal configured for
sealing engagement with the base mold. Resin and vacuum distribution
channels are formed in the interfacing surface to deliver resin to a
fiber lay up disposed on the base mold and draw the resin across and
through the lay up, respectively, to properly mix the resin/fiber
combination which forms the desired part. Application of the vacuum
causes the perimeter seal of the flexible body structure to sealingly
engage with the base mold to enclose materials between the body structure
and the mold, as well as causing the interfacing surface to draw against
the resin/fiber combination and the mold to shape the combination into
the desired part.