Patent ID: 8206823

Claim:
An integrated lightning strike protection system adapted for controlled automated placement by a contour tape laying machine (CTLM) directly on a composite structure or tool and designed as a stand alone system that meets electromagnetic effects protection, the system comprising: a surfacing layer with a fiber reinforcement material layer; a conductive layer comprising an expanded metal foil, the conductive layer adjacent the surfacing layer, wherein the conductive layer has a weight in the range of 0.086 psf to 0.100 psf; a tack layer adjacent the conductive layer; and, a carrier layer adjacent the tack layer, wherein each of the surfacing, conductive, tack, and carrier layers have one or more parameters selected from the group consisting of flexibility, tack, lightning strike protection, and environmental performance, the parameters for each layer being optimized for automated manufacturing, and further wherein the system provides an integrated material that works seamlessly with the contour tape laying machine (CTLM).