Apparatus and methods for gripping flexible materials
US10800710B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 10, 2018 |
| Grant date | Oct 13, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 26, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49801
- WIPO fieldMaterials, metallurgy
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A ceramic fiber processing apparatus and method for processing ceramic fibers for the manufacture of ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) is provided. The apparatus includes a frame including a plurality of unidirectional ceramic fibers wound thereabout and extending across a void therein the frame to define a first planar array of ceramic fibers and a second planar array of ceramic fibers. During use, the frame is disposed in the ceramic fiber processing apparatus in a manner to enable gripping of the first planar array of ceramic fibers with a first gripper assembly and gripping of the second planar array of ceramic fibers with a second gripper assembly. A cutting mechanism provides cutting of the plurality of unidirectional ceramic fibers to separate the first planar array of ceramic fibers and the second planar array of ceramic fibers from one another.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.