Automated system and method for preparing a mandrel for use in composite stringer manufacturing
US11498654B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 18, 2020 |
| Grant date | Nov 15, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 15, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T50/40
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system includes a U-shaped chute, one or more feeder mechanisms, a sock application assembly, and a film application assembly. The chute has a chute inlet and a chute outlet and is configured to receive a mandrel having a mandrel length. The one or more feeder mechanisms are configured to move the mandrel into the chute inlet and through the chute. The sock application assembly has a sock material spool containing a breather sock in tubular form. The sock application assembly is configured to progressively apply the breather sock over the mandrel length as the mandrel exits the chute outlet. The film application assembly has a film material spool containing a film in tubular form. The film application assembly is configured to progressively apply the film over the breather sock covering the mandrel exiting the sock application assembly to thereby form a film-sock-mandrel assembly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.