The Boeing Company

Thomas J Falasco

Ethan W Hunter

Kurt M Swanson

Arthur J Lallo

The shape of a laminated composite structure is optimized using finite element analysis. The optimized shape minimizes the weight of the structure while satisfying minimum strength and stiffness requirements.

Optimizing the shape of a composite structure

This invention relates to an aerodynamic blade assembly and method by which the blade is formed in a single cure cycle. A foam core having an aerodynamic shape is provided on which an inner spar wrap member, an upper spar pack member, a lower spar pack member, a lower outer spar wrap member, an upper outer spar wrap member, a leading edge block and a trailing edge wedge are laid-up from fiber-reinforced composite material. The total lay-up assembly with the core is placed in a mold tool and the tool heated to thereby cure and structuralize the total lay-up assembly to form the blade.

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Broomall, PA, United States of America

Thomas J Falasco