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The invention disclosed herein relates to hollow fiber reinforced
composite material parts having one or more selectively positioned core,
structural insert, or veneer pieces integrally associated therewith. In
one embodiment, the composite part defines a first shape and the method
comprises at least the following steps: providing a mandrel that is
substantially the same as but sized smaller than the first shape of the
composite material part, wherein the mandrel has one or more selectively
positioned complementary recesses; forming an elastic layer about the
mandrel to define an elastic bladder; applying a vacuum in between the
bladder and the mandrel to thereby force and conform the bladder against
the exterior surface of the mandrel; applying a resin and a fiber
material about the bladder, and positioning at least one of the one or
more core, structural insert, or veneer pieces adjacent and proximate to
one of the one or more selectively positioned recesses to define an
uncured part; placing the uncured part into a mold; applying a fluid or
gas pressure in between the mandrel and the uncured part to thereby force
and conform the uncured part against the interior surface of the mold;
and heating the mold to a temperature and for a period of time sufficient
to cure the resin to thereby define the hollow composite material part.
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< Composites, method of manufacture thereof, and articles formed therefrom
> Sonar dome
> System, method, and apparatus for production-worthy, low cost composite tool fabrication
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~ 00569
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