Originally Posted by
olnico
Thanks guys.
This is the future of aerospace design.
For example, consider the manufacture of a propeller. Being able to print an inner core that is 3D honeycomb, ballistic grade and conforms to the mold shape by 2/10 mm opens a new area in composite design.
BTW the CAD software we use to compute composite aero structure resistance are not able to modelize such a material yet. So the gain in weight and resistance for very complex parts and whole assemblies is unknown yet!
Oliver, future is here. They are being experimented on Heli Rotor Blades at this moment, which are currently made of composite honeycomb. Many folks dont realize the technology inside a helicopter blade/propeller, specifically when it comes to the application of smart materials. Stuff that used to be mechanically controlled can now be controlled by material selection. Selective Additive Mfg is a game changer! Not to mention the impact on manufacturing!!!