End effector and methods for constructing composite members
US7785433B2 · kind B2 · utility
3Cited by
11References
7Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 31, 2007 |
| Grant date | Aug 31, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 31, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T156/1795
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An end effector, and methods for constructing composite members, in which a compaction roller and redirect rollers translate synchronously along the compaction axis. Additionally, the end effector includes an advantageous arrangement of spools and rollers that directs tow to the redirect rollers at substantially a right angle. Movement of the compaction roller along the compaction axis induces little, if any, changes in tow tension. The substantially constant tow tension advantageously reduces rewinding of the tow supply spools, which can degrade the quality of the lay up and contribute to despooling problems.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.