Patent ID: 9573355
Date: 2017-02-21
CPC Classifications: B29C,B32B,Y10T

Claim:
1. A method for forming of pre-preg structural members comprising the steps of: providing a mandrel having a plurality of forming blocks in segments, said forming blocks sized to receive a draped composite laminate assembly; draping the composite laminate assembly on the mandrel maintaining all portions of the composite laminate assembly spaced from at least one shaping surface on each block during draping; providing a saddle with at least one spline plate; mounting the mandrel on the saddle; maintaining the draped composite laminate assembly in contact with the forming blocks; and, relaxing the shaping surfaces of the forming blocks onto the at least one spline plate, the forming blocks conforming to a curvature of the at least one spline plate to maintain the composite laminate assembly in tension.