Inverted Vantage
Formerly Unknown Target
- Joined
- Jun 19, 2008
- Messages
- 1,116
So, after a restless night I happened upon an idea; I remember reading at one point (I don't know where) that different mixtures of resin and hardener in a composite matrix could lead to different flexibility properties within the cured part; different resins also could produce this effect (I think I remember reading something about bamboo?).
Anyway, my question is this; what is the feasibility of using a carbon (or glass) core within a semi-flexible matrix as a replacement for a standard mechanical hinge in, say, an aileron joint?*
*EDIT: I thought I should expand upon the possible advantage I'm seeing in simplifying construction. Standard mechanical hinges don't interface well with composite structures, requiring extensive build-up around bolt-holes and attachment points. Using a flexible "membrane" in place of a mechanical joint has the potential to streamline the production process and reduce the possibility of error. I see a long strip of flexible carbon/epoxy being attached much how tape joints are done on R/C aircraft.
EDIT2: Whoops, I guess this should go in the composites sub-forum. Like I said, no sleep. Sorry admins.
Anyway, my question is this; what is the feasibility of using a carbon (or glass) core within a semi-flexible matrix as a replacement for a standard mechanical hinge in, say, an aileron joint?*
*EDIT: I thought I should expand upon the possible advantage I'm seeing in simplifying construction. Standard mechanical hinges don't interface well with composite structures, requiring extensive build-up around bolt-holes and attachment points. Using a flexible "membrane" in place of a mechanical joint has the potential to streamline the production process and reduce the possibility of error. I see a long strip of flexible carbon/epoxy being attached much how tape joints are done on R/C aircraft.
EDIT2: Whoops, I guess this should go in the composites sub-forum. Like I said, no sleep. Sorry admins.
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