Patent ID: 7887734
Filing Date: 2011-02-15
Classification: B29C,B29D,B33Y

Abstract:
1. A process of manufacturing a one-piece composite part, comprising the steps of: (a) fabricating a shape memory polymer (SMP) into the shape of a form for a one-piece composite part and then solidifying the polymer form into its glassy state, said form having a shape that does not draw from the composite part; (b) with the SMP form in its glassy state, laying up a composite material on the form; (c) solidifying the composite material to create a one-piece composite part; (d) heating the SMP form to transition from its glassy state to its elastomeric state without changing shape; and (e) drawing the form in its elastomeric state from the one-piece composite part thereby deforming the form as it is removed, said form returning to its original shape for the one-piece composite part upon removal.