20240017850. METHOD FOR PRODUCING A PERFORATED NACELLE INLET ASSEMBLY simplified abstract (The Boeing Company)

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METHOD FOR PRODUCING A PERFORATED NACELLE INLET ASSEMBLY

Organization Name

The Boeing Company

Inventor(s)

Charles William Rust of Seattle WA (US)

John Alfred Weidler of Lynnwood WA (US)

Martin Wood of Newcastle Upon Tyne (GB)

METHOD FOR PRODUCING A PERFORATED NACELLE INLET ASSEMBLY - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240017850 titled 'METHOD FOR PRODUCING A PERFORATED NACELLE INLET ASSEMBLY

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes a method for producing a nacelle inlet assembly, which involves forming a curved composite panel with a carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) material. A metallic coating is then applied to the composite panel to create a lipskin, where the metallic coating defines the exterior surface and the composite panel defines the interior surface. Laser drilling is used to create perforations through the lipskin, with the laser beam penetrating the CFRP material before exiting through the exterior surface.

  • The method involves forming a curved composite panel with a CFRP material.
  • A metallic coating is applied to the composite panel to create a lipskin.
  • Laser drilling is used to create perforations through the lipskin.
  • The laser beam penetrates the CFRP material before exiting through the exterior surface.

Potential applications of this technology:

  • Aerospace industry: The nacelle inlet assembly can be used in aircraft engines to improve airflow and reduce drag.
  • Wind energy: The technology can be applied to wind turbine nacelles to enhance performance and efficiency.

Problems solved by this technology:

  • Improved aerodynamics: The curved contour of the composite panel and the perforations in the lipskin help optimize airflow, reducing drag and improving overall efficiency.
  • Lightweight construction: The use of CFRP material and the composite panel design allow for a lightweight and durable nacelle inlet assembly.

Benefits of this technology:

  • Enhanced performance: The optimized airflow and reduced drag result in improved engine or turbine performance.
  • Fuel efficiency: The lightweight construction of the nacelle inlet assembly contributes to fuel savings.
  • Durability: The use of CFRP material and the composite panel design provide a durable and long-lasting solution.


Original Abstract Submitted

a method for producing a nacelle inlet assembly includes forming a composite panel that has a carbon fiber reinforced polymer (cfrp) material. the composite panel is formed to have a curved contour that represents at least a portion of an annular barrel shape. the method includes applying a metallic coating to the composite panel to form a lipskin. the metallic coating is applied such that the metallic coating defines an exterior surface of the lipskin and the composite panel defines an interior surface of the lipskin. the method includes laser drilling a plurality of perforations through the lipskin. the laser drilling involves emitting a laser beam that impinges upon the interior surface of the lipskin and penetrates the cfrp material of the composite panel before penetrating the metallic coating and exiting the lipskin through the exterior surface.