Innovative Manufacturing of Advanced Composite Components.

1Low cost, automated fabrication of composite components for submarine use is proposed that allows limited quantities of parts to be produced in an efficient and cost effective manner. The method relies on intergration of computer based automated pattern fabrication technology such as stereolithography (SLA) with "prototype" chemically bonded ceramic (CBC) matched die tooling to flammability, outgassing and seawater resistance requirements. Canditate composite materials and submaring components will be reviewed and items identified that can be made using this technology. A general cost analysis will be performed on the proposed fabrication method and a detailed analysis will be done on a selected component. Due to the low cost associated with the methods proposed, a small component will be selected and made as part of the technology demonstration. Full integration of the production process from computer aided design through manufacture will allow short run production to be accomplished for unit prices comparable to mass production.