Integrated Caul with Elastomeric Seals

Organization Name

Inventor(s)

Samuel Shane Brickey of Bellingham WA (US)

Julia Karolina Slusarski of Seattle WA (US)

Integrated Caul with Elastomeric Seals - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240262055 titled 'Integrated Caul with Elastomeric Seals

The patent application describes a method, apparatus, and system for applying a vacuum-based pressure on an uncured composite structure by using membranes with positive features that define vacuum channels.

Membranes are bonded to a boundary of a caul.
The membranes have positive features that define vacuum channels.
Membranes are spliced to each other, aligning the positive features that define the vacuum channels.
The membranes, spliced and bonded to the caul, form an integrated caul.
The integrated caul applies pressure on the uncured composite structure during operation.

Potential Applications: - Aerospace industry for manufacturing composite parts - Automotive industry for producing lightweight components - Construction industry for creating strong and durable structures

Problems Solved: - Ensures uniform pressure distribution on composite structures - Facilitates efficient curing process - Enhances the quality and strength of composite parts

Benefits: - Improved structural integrity - Cost-effective manufacturing process - Enhanced productivity and efficiency

Commercial Applications: Title: Advanced Vacuum Pressure System for Composite Manufacturing This technology can be used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction for the production of high-quality composite parts. It can lead to cost savings, improved product quality, and increased manufacturing efficiency.

Prior Art: Readers can explore prior patents related to vacuum pressure systems for composite manufacturing processes to understand the evolution of this technology.

Frequently Updated Research: Stay updated on the latest advancements in vacuum pressure systems for composite manufacturing to incorporate cutting-edge techniques and technologies into your processes.

Questions about the Technology: 1. How does the integrated caul ensure consistent pressure distribution during the curing process? 2. What are the key advantages of using vacuum-based pressure systems in composite manufacturing?

Original Abstract Submitted

a method, apparatus, and system for applying a vacuum-based pressure on an uncured composite structure. membranes are bonded to a boundary of a caul. the membranes include positive features that define vacuum channels. the membranes are spliced to each other. the positive features that define the vacuum channels in the membranes are aligned to each other during splicing of the membranes. the membranes spliced to each other and bonded to the caul to form an integrated caul. the integrated caul applies a pressure on the uncured composite structure during operation of the integrated caul.