Patent ID: 9272767
Filing Date: 2016-03-01
CPC Classification: B29C,B29D,B64C,Y02T,Y10T

Claim Text:
1. A method of compacting an uncured composite member against a mandrel surface having a longitudinal contour and curing, comprising: adhering the uncured composite member to a flexible elongate compactor using a suction force; using the compactor to align the uncured composite member with the longitudinal contour of the mandrel surface; using the compactor to bring the uncured composite member initially into contact with the mandrel surface at an apex of the longitudinal contour; forming the uncured composite member over the contour of the mandrel surface outwardly from the apex; using the compactor to compact the uncured composite member against the mandrel surface; and curing the uncured composite member between the mandrel surface and the compactor.