Design & Tooling
Free-form surfacing optimizes free-style kayak
The 6-ft/1.8m-long Project 54cx kayak, made using aramid and carbon fabric-reinforced composites, weighs only 19 lb/8.6 kg.
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Optimizing the Ares V payload shroud
Sizing software allows rapid analysis of candidate composite architecture for highly loaded and weight-sensitive launch vehicle component.
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Simulation simplifies fabrication of all-composite crew module
Specialized simulation software shortens development cycle on first all-composite crew module demonstrator for NASA space program.
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Compression platens and subpresses
Dr. Don Adams discusses the use of compression platens (fixed and spherical seat) and subpresses to ensure reliable test frame operation.
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Direct manufacturing of military aircraft parts
 Laser sintering process shortens lead time, simplifies production of complex, high-performance parts.
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Solvent-free release a good match for wind blade molding
Wind power’s reputation as a “green” technology belies the fact that production of turbine components requires many materials and products that aren’t green.
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Team-built bus body bests all
OEM meets tight development schedule on superlight multipart molded shell to offset propulsion system weight in fuel cell-powered transit bus.
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Challenge of engineering retrofit blades
Myriad interrelated design factors are considered in new blades for turbines originally built for high-wind regimes.
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Lightweight, stable large-tool concept requires no master model
After two years of testing, partners Advanced Composites Group (ACG, Tulsa, Okla.) and GrafTech (Parma, Ohio) are commercializing the ACG GRAFOAM FPA-20 tooling system, a new concept in dimensionally stable, low-mass, high-temperature-compatible composite tooling. The system’s foundation is carbon foam.
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C-Scan inspection facility cuts cost for commercial copter
Bell Helicopter Textron’s (Ft. Worth, Texas) 429 helicopter, first revealed in 2008, is targeted to individual, corporate and emergency-services customers.
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