Patent ID: 8168023
Filing Date: 2012-05-01
Classification: B29C,B29D,B29L,B64C,B64F,Y02T,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method for manufacturing a shell structure, the method comprising: applying composite material to an interior mold surface of a tool to form a skin lay-up extending 360 degrees around an axis; positioning a plurality of stiffeners on a stiffener placement tool; moving the stiffener placement tool toward an inner surface of the skin lay-up to press the plurality of stiffeners against the inner surface of the skin lay-up; moving the stiffener placement tool away from the plurality of stiffeners, leaving the plurality of stiffeners in position on the inner surface of the skin lay-up; applying a vacuum bag over the plurality of stiffeners positioned on the inner surface of the skin lay-up; and at least partially cocuring the skin lay-up and the plurality of stiffeners to bond the plurality of stiffeners to the skin lay-up.