The Boeing Company
Continous-Line Fabrication for Composite Parts

Abstract:

Systems and methods are provided for forming a laminate. The method includes indexing a layup mandrel to a lamination machine disposed at a first location, transporting the lamination machine and the layup mandrel in a process direction from the first location towards a second location, laying up a laminate comprising layers of fiber-reinforced material onto the layup mandrel via the lamination machine while the lamination machine and the layup mandrel are transported in the process direction, removing the layup mandrel and the laminate at the second location, and returning the lamination machine to the first location for laying up another laminate onto another mandrel.