The Boeing Company
Noodle comprised of a matrix of discontinuous filaments

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for manufacturing a filler for a composite structure. The apparatus may comprise a filler. The filler may comprise a fiber matrix that is uniform in all directions. The fiber matrix may comprise a first plurality of discontinuous filaments and a second plurality of discontinuous filaments. Each filament of the first plurality of discontinuous filaments may be comprised of a stiffening material. Each filament of the second plurality of discontinuous filaments may be comprised of a binding material. Discontinuous filaments of both the first plurality of discontinuous filaments and the second plurality of discontinuous filaments may be randomly oriented and entangled with each other.