US 12,472,705 B2
Methods for configuring a shape of a tool and associated systems and methods for manufacturing a composite structure
Luis F. Velasquez, Ladson, SC (US); and Allen J. Halbritter, Summerville, SC (US)
Assigned to The Boeing Company, Arlington, VA (US)
Filed by The Boeing Company, Chicago, IL (US)
Filed on Apr. 1, 2022, as Appl. No. 17/711,194.
Prior Publication US 2023/0311431 A1, Oct. 5, 2023
Int. Cl. B29C 64/00 (2017.01); B29C 35/02 (2006.01); B29C 70/44 (2006.01)
CPC B29C 70/44 (2013.01) [B29C 35/02 (2013.01)] 20 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. A method for manufacturing a composite structure, the method comprising:
localized heating a portion of a tool to yield a heated portion of the tool;
mechanically manipulating the heated portion of the tool to change a shape of the tool from an initial shape to a reconfigured shape by engaging a shaping machine with the tool, wherein the shaping machine comprises at least one automated shaping member independently movable about a longitudinal axis, a vertical axis and a traverse axis;
positioning composite material on an outside surface of the tool to yield a composite layup;
positioning a vacuum bag into engagement with the composite layup;
picking up the composite layup;
mechanically manipulating the heated portion of the tool to change a shape of the tool from the reconfigured shape to another reconfigured shape by engaging the shaping machine with the tool; and
positioning another composite material on an outside surface of the tool having the another reconfigured shape to yield another composite layup.