System and method for bending towpreg
US11485097B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 26, 2021 |
| Grant date | Nov 1, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 26, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29C2043/3411
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method for bending towpreg to yield a desired amount of axial force during bending to form a preform is provided including inserting towpreg into a bending die, applying an initial axial force to the towpreg, and moving the gripped end of the towpreg in an involute path using a cam, a cam follower and a gripper, the gripper disposed on the cam follower. Axial force between the gripped end and the stationary end of the towpreg from a point where the towpreg contacts a surface of the bending die is applied tangent to the surface of the bending die while bending the towpreg. An apparatus for bending towpreg to form a preform is provided including bending dies disposed in fixed positions, and a follower. Axial involute cam mechanism having a drive shaft, a cam, a cam follower that follows an involute path around the cam, a gripper and a clamp.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.