METHODS AND DEVICES FOR SUPPORTING A VARIETY OF COMPOSITE STRINGERS

Provided are methods and devices for supporting of variety of different composite stringers after forming and prior to curing. A post-forming processing device (100) comprises a base (110) with a channel (112) for receiving hat portions of different stringers. The device (100) also comprises a support structure (120), at least partially extending within the channel (112). The support structure (120) is configured to conform to different hat portions (191) and to retain the shape of these hat portions. For example, the support structure (120) is made from a flexible material, which conforms to any shape variations. In some examples, the support structure is made from a jamming material that is reshaped together with each of the pre-cured composite stringers. A post-forming processing device (100) is used for supporting different composite stringers while various operations are performed on these stringers, such as stringer trimming, inspection, installation of bladders and noodles, and the like.