The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
May. 04, 2010
Filed:
Jan. 16, 2009
Michael A. Lee, Kent, WA (US);
Kurtis S. Willden, Kent, WA (US);
Darrell D. Jones, Mill Creek, WA (US);
Richard B. Evans, Maple Valley, WA (US);
Michael A. Lee, Kent, WA (US);
Kurtis S. Willden, Kent, WA (US);
Darrell D. Jones, Mill Creek, WA (US);
Richard B. Evans, Maple Valley, WA (US);
The Boeing Company, Chicago, IL (US);
Abstract
A method and associated apparatus for forming a composite structural member from a charge are provided. The charge can be disposed on a first die of the apparatus and formed to a desired configuration defined by a recess of the die by inserting a second die or a tool into the recess. In some cases, the first die can include two portions that are adjustable in a transverse direction so that the recess can be opened by the insertion of the second die or tool. The second die or tool can be a substantially rigid member or an inflatable bladder. In either case, the charge can be disposed on the first die, formed, and then further processed on the first die, thereby facilitating indexing of the charge for each operation.