Patent ID: 7622069

Claim:
A molding method, comprising: inserting a preform having a predetermined part shape into an external mold having the predetermined part shape, the preform having therein: a perforated shape memory polymer mandrel in its temporary shape, the shape memory polymer mandrel having i) the predetermined part shape as the temporary shape and ii) a shrunken shape as its permanent shape, wherein the shrunken shape is configured such that it is removable from the predetermined part shape; and a bladder positioned within the perforated shape memory polymer mandrel; configuring the bladder such that it substantially blocks perforations of the mandrel in its temporary shape; injecting resin into the external mold between an inner surface of the external mold and an outer surface of the preform such that the resin impregnates the preform; and curing the injected resin, thereby forming a molded part.