US Patent 11059235 Reconfigurable manufacturing system and method for manufacturing composite laminates

A manufacturing system includes a first mandrel, a second mandrel, and laminate securing mechanisms. The first mandrel has a first mandrel surface and a first mandrel surface edge. The second mandrel has a second mandrel surface and a second mandrel surface edge, and is positionable in a closed position in which the first mandrel surface edge and the second mandrel surface edge are in contact to form a continuous mandrel surface collectively defined by the first mandrel surface and the second mandrel surface. The second mandrel translates to an open position defining a gap between the first mandrel surface edge and the second mandrel surface edge for receiving a forming die. The laminate securing mechanisms secure the composite laminate on at least one of the first mandrel and the second mandrel during trimming and/or forming of the composite laminate.