Continuous production line manufacturing system and method for composite parts

Abstract

Continuous production line manufacturing systems and methods for composite parts are disclosed. A method for depositing composite material onto a tool using an automated machine. The method includes coupling a first mobile platform to a second mobile platform to form a coupled system, the first mobile platform supporting the automated machine and the second mobile platform supporting the tool. The method also includes indexing the automated machine relative to the tool. The method also includes depositing the composite material from the automated machine onto the tool as the coupled system moves along the production line.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to manufacturing, and more specifically to continuous flow manufacturing systems and related equipment and methods for controlling continuous flow manufacturing processes. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional manufacturing techniques for large parts such as wing spars, fuselage sections, wing structures, and other aircraft structures utilize large fixed-base machines and model-specific fixed-base tools. Traditional manufacturing techniques for composite parts utilize fixed-base tools and batch processing, where the composite part is not moved from one location to another until complete lamination of the part is finished, and the machine remains stationary. Neither of these manufacturing techniques is suitable for continuous flow manufacturing. Therefore, the stationary nature of current manufacturing systems limits the ability to increase production rates. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An apparatus for laminating composite components on a production line is disclosed.

[0004] In one example, the disclosed apparatus for laminating composite components on a production line includes an automated machine mounted on a first moving platform guided along the production line. The apparatus also includes tools mounted on a second moving platform guided along the production line. The apparatus further includes a coupling feature configured to connect the first and second moving platforms, such that the first and second moving platforms can travel as a coupled system along the production line. The apparatus also includes a motion controller and a controller coupled to the second moving platform. The controller is configured to detect the position of the first and second moving platforms and the state of the automated machine. The controller is also configured to control the state of the coupling feature, control the travel parameters of the first and second moving platforms, and control the travel parameters of the second moving platform. The first and second moving platforms are configured to travel independently of each other when in an uncoupled state.

[0005] A method for depositing composite materials onto tools using automated machines is also disclosed.

[0006] In one example, the disclosed method for depositing composite material onto a tool using an automated machine includes coupling a first mobile platform and a second mobile platform to form a coupling system, the first mobile platform supporting the automated machine and the second mobile platform supporting the tool. The method also includes indexing the automated machine relative to the tool. The method further includes depositing composite material from the automated machine onto the tool as the coupling system moves along a production line.

[0007] A manufacturing system was also disclosed.

[0008] In one example, the disclosed manufacturing system includes a production line, an automated machine located on a first mobile platform and configured to perform at least one manufacturing operation, tools located on a second mobile platform, and coupling features configured to connect the first and second mobile platforms to form a coupling system. The manufacturing system also includes the first and second mobile platforms configured to travel along the production line as a coupling system while the automated machine performs at least one manufacturing operation.

[0009] A method for laminating composite components onto a tool located on a second mobile platform using an automated machine located on a first mobile platform is also disclosed.

[0010] In one example, the disclosed method for laminating a composite component onto a tool located on a second mobile platform using an automated machine located on a first mobile platform includes moving the first mobile platform to a predetermined position, coupling the first mobile platform to the second mobile platform to form a coupling system, driving the coupling system along a continuous mobile production line via a motion controller, depositing the composite material from the automated machine onto the tool as the coupling system moves along the continuous mobile production line, disengaging the coupling system upon completion of deposition, returning the first mobile platform to the starting position along the continuous mobile production line, and advancing the second mobile platform to an autoclave.

[0011] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a method for manufacturing a workpiece includes:

[0012] The first mobile platform and the second mobile platform are connected to form a connection system, wherein the first mobile platform supports the automated machine and the second mobile platform supports the workpiece;

[0013] Compared to automated workpiece indexing machines;

[0014] Move along the production line; and

[0015] Transfer composite materials from automated machines to workpieces.

[0016] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a method for depositing composite materials onto a tool using an automated machine, the method comprising:

[0017] The first mobile platform and the second mobile platform are connected to form a connected system, wherein the first mobile platform supports automated machines and the second mobile platform supports tools;

[0018] Compared to automated workpiece indexing machines; and

[0019] As the coupling system moves along the production line, it deposits composite materials from automated machines onto the tools.

[0020] Advantageously, this method is one in which a second moving platform moves continuously along the production line.

[0021] Preferably, the method is one in which the second moving platform moves along the production line in a pulse manner.

[0022] Preferably, the method further includes disconnecting the connection system.

[0023] The method also includes advancing the second mobile platform to a predetermined position on the production line.

[0024] Preferably, the method is a method in which the predetermined position is an autoclave.

[0025] The method also includes returning the first mobile platform to its starting position on the production line.

[0026] Preferably, the method is a method in which the automated machine (110) is an automated fiber placement machine.

[0027] The method also includes connecting a third mobile platform to a second mobile platform to form a connected system, wherein the third mobile platform supports the second automated machine.

[0028] Preferably, the method is one in which joining and indexing are performed simultaneously.

[0029] Preferably, the method includes a method of receiving commands, wherein an automated machine located on a first mobile platform is indexed using a tool located on a second mobile platform.

[0030] Preferably, the method is a method in which the command is wireless.

[0031] Preferably, the method is one in which the production line is straight.

[0032] Preferably, the method is one in which the production line is bent.

[0033] Advantageously, this method is one in which the tools include sensors.

[0034] Preferably, the method is one in which the production line includes a track.

[0035] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a manufacturing system includes:

[0036] Production line;

[0037] An automated machine, located on a first mobile platform and configured to perform at least one manufacturing operation;

[0038] The workpiece is located on the second moving platform; and

[0039] The connecting feature is configured to connect the first mobile platform and the second mobile platform to form a connecting system.

[0040] The first and second mobile platforms are configured to travel along the production line as a connecting system while the automated machine performs at least one manufacturing operation.

[0041] Advantageously, the manufacturing system also includes indexing features configured to index the automated machine relative to the workpiece.

[0042] Preferably, the manufacturing system is a manufacturing system in which the indexing feature and the connecting feature are the same (same, same, identical).

[0043] Preferably, the manufacturing system is one in which the coupling system is configured to decouple upon completion of the at least one manufacturing operation.

[0044] Preferably, the manufacturing system is a system in which at least one manufacturing operation includes depositing the composite material onto the workpiece.

[0045] Preferably, the manufacturing system is a manufacturing system in which the connecting features include a latch.

[0046] Preferably, the manufacturing system is a system for connecting features, including clamps.

[0047] Preferably, the manufacturing system is a manufacturing system in which the connecting feature includes a cam lock.

[0048] Preferably, the manufacturing system is a manufacturing system in which the connecting features include cup-shaped parts and conical parts.

[0049] Preferably, the manufacturing system is a system for connecting features, including guide rails.

[0050] Preferably, the manufacturing system is a system in which the connecting feature includes a hook.

[0051] Preferably, the manufacturing system is a manufacturing system in which the connecting features include a trailer coupler.

[0052] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a method for laminating composite components onto a tool located on a second mobile platform using an automated machine located on a first mobile platform, the method comprising:

[0053] Move the first mobile platform to the designated location;

[0054] Connect the first mobile platform to the second mobile platform to form a connection system;

[0055] The connection system is driven along the continuously moving production line by a motion controller;

[0056] As the coupling system moves along a continuously moving production line, it deposits composite materials from automated machines onto tools;

[0057] Disconnect the coupling system upon completion of deposition;

[0058] The first mobile platform is returned to its starting position along the continuous moving production line; and

[0059] Move the second mobile platform forward to the autoclave.

[0060] Advantageously, the method is one in which the second moving platform moves continuously along a continuous moving production line.

[0061] Preferably, the method is one in which the second moving platform moves in a pulse manner along a continuously moving production line.

[0062] Preferably, the method is one in which the coupling system is driven by a motion controller located on a first mobile platform.

[0063] Preferably, the method is one in which the coupling system is driven by a motion controller located on a second mobile platform.

[0064] Preferably, the method further includes compaction and consolidation.

[0065] According to one aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus for laminating composite components on a production line, the apparatus comprising:

[0066] An automated machine is mounted on a first mobile platform, which is guided along the production line.

[0067] The tool is mounted on a second mobile platform, which is guided along the production line;

[0068] The connecting feature is configured to connect the first mobile platform to the second mobile platform, such that the first mobile platform and the second mobile platform can travel along the production line as a connecting system.

[0069] Motion controller, connected to the second mobile platform; and

[0070] The controller is configured to detect the position of the first moving platform, the position of the second moving platform, and the status of the automated machine.

[0071] The controller is configured to control the state of the connecting features, control the travel parameters of the first moving platform, and control the travel parameters of the second moving platform.

[0072] The first mobile platform and the second mobile platform are configured to move independently of each other when they are in an unconnected state.

[0073] Advantageously, the equipment is one in which the second moving platform moves continuously along the production line.

[0074] Preferably, the device is one in which the second moving platform moves along the production line in a pulse manner.

[0075] Preferably, the equipment is equipment in which the production line includes a track.

[0076] Preferably, the device is one in which the movement of the first mobile platform and the second mobile platform is controlled by a global positioning system.

[0077] Preferably, the device is one in which the movement of the first and second mobile platforms is controlled by a laser. Further examples of the disclosed devices, methods, and systems will become clear from the following detailed description, drawings, and appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0078] Examples of this disclosure are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements or elements of the same type.

[0079] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the manufacturing system in the illustrative example.

[0080] Figure 2 Is it possible to... Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of the equipment used in the manufacturing system shown.

[0081] Figure 3 Is it possible to... Figure 1 A perspective view of the first and second mobile platforms used together in the manufacturing system shown.

[0082] Figure 4 Is it possible to... Figure 1 A perspective view of the first and second mobile platforms used together in the manufacturing system shown.

[0083] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Is it possible to... Figure 1 A perspective view of the first and second mobile platforms used together in the manufacturing system shown.

[0084] Figure 6 Is it possible to... Figure 1 A perspective view of the first and second mobile platforms used together in the manufacturing system shown.

[0085] Figure 7 Is it possible to... Figure 1 A perspective view of the first and second mobile platforms used together in the manufacturing system shown.

[0086] Figure 8This illustrates the method for depositing composite materials onto... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The flowchart shows the method on the tool.

[0087] Figure 9 This illustrates a method for laminating composite components onto... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The flowchart shows the method on the tool.

[0088] Figure 10 It is possible to be with Figure 8 Methods and Figure 9 A block diagram of a manufacturing system using the methods described above.

[0089] Figure 11 It is a flowchart of aircraft manufacturing and maintenance methods.

[0090] Figure 12 It's a block diagram of an airplane.

[0091] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a workpiece.

[0092] Figure 14 yes Figure 8 A plan view of the flowchart of the method.

[0093] Figure 15 yes Figure 9 A plan view of the flowchart of the method. Detailed Implementation

[0094] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific examples of the present disclosure. Other examples with different structures and operations do not depart from the scope of this disclosure. In different drawings, the same reference numerals may refer to the same features, elements, or components.

[0095] The following are illustrative, non-exhaustive examples of the subject matter according to this disclosure, which may, but are not necessarily, claimed. Reference to “example” herein means that one or more features, structures, elements, components, characteristics, and / or operational steps described in connection with the example are included in at least one aspect, implementation, and / or mode of operation of the subject matter according to this disclosure. Therefore, the phrases “example,” “another example,” “one or more examples,” and similar language throughout this disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example. Furthermore, the subject matter characterizing any example may, but does not necessarily include the subject matter characterizing any other example. Moreover, the subject matter characterizing any example may, but does not necessarily, combine with the subject matter characterizing any other example.

[0096] As used herein, a system, apparatus, device, structure, article, element, component, or hardware "constructed to" perform a specified function is actually capable of performing the specified function without any alteration, and not merely has the potential to perform the specified function after further modification. In other words, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware "constructed for" performing a specified function is specifically selected, created, implemented, utilized, programmed, and / or designed for the purpose of performing the specified function. As used herein, "constructed to" means an existing characteristic of the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware that enables the system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware to perform the specified function without further modification. For the purposes of this disclosure, a system, apparatus, structure, article, element, component, or hardware described as "constructed for" performing a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as "adapted to" and / or "operated for" performing that function.

[0097] For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "coupled," "coupling," and similar terms refer to two or more elements that are combined, linked, fastened, attached, connected, communicated, or otherwise associated with each other (e.g., mechanically, electrically, fluidly, optically, electromagnetically). In various instances, the elements may be associated directly or indirectly. As an example, element A may be directly associated with element B. As another example, element A may be indirectly associated with element B, for example, via another element C. It will be understood that not all associations between the various disclosed elements need to be represented. Therefore, other connections besides those depicted in the figures may also exist.

[0098] As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximately,” and “generally” mean or indicate a condition that is close to (but not exactly) still performs the desired function or achieves the desired result. For example, the terms “about,” “approximately,” and “generally” mean a condition within acceptable predetermined tolerances or accuracy. For instance, the terms “about,” “approximately,” and “generally” mean a condition within 10% of the stated condition. However, the terms “about,” “approximately,” and “generally” do not exclude a condition that is exactly the stated condition.

[0099] References to features, advantages, or similar language used throughout this specification do not imply that all features and advantages that can be implemented using the examples disclosed herein should be or be in any single example. Rather, references to features and advantages are to be understood as meaning that a particular feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an example is included in at least one example. Thus, the discussion of features, advantages, and similar language used throughout this disclosure may, but does not necessarily, refer to the same examples.

[0100] Continuous flow manufacturing is a method of manufacturing products on a single production line from start to finish. It offers a different approach from traditional batch manufacturing, where products are either fully manufactured in a single manufacturing cell or partially manufactured in one cell and then moved to another for subsequent production. The benefits and advantages of continuous flow manufacturing include, but are not limited to, reduced workload, reduced floor space requirements, reduced inventory, increased efficiency, reduced product defects, and reduced cycle time.

[0101] Continuous flow manufacturing requires the integration of various components and processes within a production system to enable the continuous movement of workpieces through the system, without dividing them into batches or lots. Continuous flow manufacturing also requires the rapid and accurate movement of tools, workpieces, and machines from one location to another, and the management of process-related information along the process flow path to achieve consistent quality and repeatable processing times.

[0102] Overall reference Figures 1 to 11 By way of example, this disclosure is directed to manufacturing system 200, method 100 for depositing composite materials onto tool 130, method 300 for laminating composite components onto tool 130, and apparatus 320 for laminating composite components onto production line 160. Throughout this disclosure, manufacturing system 200 may also be generally referred to as system 200. Manufacturing system 200 facilitates the continuous production of workpiece 135, wherein workpiece 135 moves from one workflow or station 400 to another workflow or station in a single sequential flow on production line 160 (i.e., continuous flow manufacturing).

[0103] The system 200, apparatus 320, method 100, and method 300 disclosed herein utilize a controller 190 to perform process management at each stage of a continuous manufacturing process by recording and tracking process-related information, such as tool 130 information, workpiece 135 information, automated machine 110 information, and other work process information, and to make such process-related information available throughout the production line 160. One or more CNC programs 290 can be used to facilitate process-related information and movement throughout the manufacturing system 200 and related processes, methods, and apparatus.

[0104] System 200, device 320, method 100 and method 300 update process-related information at each stage of the continuous manufacturing process by tracking the movement of the manufactured workpiece 135 stage by stage during the continuous manufacturing process and associating process-related information with the corresponding workpiece 135.

[0105] System 200, equipment 320, method 100, and method 300 guide production by determining and retrieving the required inputs, required processes, and resulting outputs at each stage of a continuous manufacturing process via a controller corresponding to workpiece 135. Such information can be collected using one or more sensors 240.

[0106] Equipment 320 advantageously tracks, manages, and controls the flow of information, work processes, automated machines 110, and workpieces 135 within system 200, which facilitates the use of continuous flow manufacturing for various types of workpieces 135 (e.g., those that are not traditionally suitable for continuous flow manufacturing).

[0107] The systems 200, apparatus 320, method 100, and method 300 disclosed herein facilitate communication between various manufacturing stages of a continuous manufacturing process by maintaining process-related information throughout the production line 160. The systems 200 and method 100 disclosed herein facilitate continuous flow manufacturing of large components (such as wing spars, fuselage sections, wing structures, and other aircraft structures) and / or composite components by identifying and accurately locating non-fixed-base tools throughout the continuous manufacturing process. The systems 200 and method 100 disclosed herein further facilitate continuous flow manufacturing of large components and / or composite components by updating process-related information at each manufacturing stage and transmitting process-related information throughout the continuous manufacturing process.

[0108] In one or more instances, system 200, method 100, method 300, and apparatus 320 can be used to facilitate the manufacture of a composite component, i.e., workpiece 135. In one instance, the composite component (such as a carbon fiber reinforced polymer component) is first laminated into multiple layers, which together are referred to as a laminate or “preform.” The individual fibers within each layer of the laminate are aligned parallel to each other, but different layers may exhibit different fiber orientations to increase the strength of the resulting composite component along different dimensions. The laminate may include a viscous resin that cures to harden the laminate into a composite component (e.g., for use in aircraft). In one instance, system 200, method 100, method 300, and apparatus 320 can be used to facilitate the manufacture of a composite component composed of thermoplastic resin. In one instance, an automated machine 110 of system 200, method 100, method 300, and apparatus 320 is configured to perform at least one manufacturing operation 210. Figure 10 As shown, manufacturing operation 210 may include laying multiple composite plate layers of laminate in various orientations determined by one or more CNC programs 290.

[0109] Referring to the accompanying drawings, in one or more embodiments, the manufacturing system 200 includes a production line 160. The production line 160 may include a series of stations 400 arranged to enable continuous flow manufacturing. At least one manufacturing operation 210 may be performed at each station 400. In one embodiment, the manufacturing operation may include depositing composite material 139 onto a tool 130.

[0110] refer to Figure 10 In one or more instances, manufacturing system 200 includes a first moving platform 120 and a second moving platform 140. One or both of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140 are configured to move continuously along production line 160 via motion controller 195. In one or more instances, production line 160 includes a track 167 configured for the travel of the second moving platform 140 and the first moving platform 120, see [link to documentation]. Figure 1 In this example, manufacturing system 200 includes more than one second moving platform 140 along production line 160, see [link to example]. Figure 1 In one example, production line 160 is generally straight. In another example, production line 160 is generally curved, for example, in a loop configuration resembling a racetrack. Although the examples presented are designed for continuous flow systems, it is envisioned that in one or more examples, one or both of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140 are configured to move along production line 160 in a pulsed manner of any duration.

[0111] Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of the connection system 150 is shown. A first mobile platform 120 and a second mobile platform 140 are configured to be connected together and constitute the connection system 150 (see [link]). Figure 1 The platform moves along production line 160. In one or more instances, at least one coupling feature 170 may be used to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 to form a coupling system 150. Any suitable manner of coupling the platforms to each other can be implemented and utilized, as described below and some examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0112] See Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5A and Figure 5B , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In one or more instances, one or more means may be implemented and utilized to connect the first mobile platform 120 to the second mobile platform 140 via the connecting feature 170 to form a connecting system 150. Figure 3The illustration shows the use of four coupling features 170; however, one, two, three, or more coupling features 170 are conceivable and can be used in the manufacturing system 200. One or more sensors 240 may be included within the coupling features 170. A controller 190 may be configured to receive and analyze data collected from one or more sensors 240. The controller 190 may also be combined with one or more CNC programs 290 to utilize the data received from the one or more sensors to facilitate the coupling and movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140.

[0113] Figure 3A cup-shaped member 172 and a conical member 174 are shown. In one example, the connecting feature 170 includes a cup-shaped member 172 and a conical member 174. The cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 may be attached to a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and configured to nest the first moving platform 120 with the second moving platform 140 and engage the first moving platform 120 with the second moving platform 140. In the example, the cup-shaped member 172 is concave and the conical member 174 is convex complementary to be embedded within the cup-shaped member. The cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 are shown as generally conical; however, other shapes are contemplated. In the example, the cup-shaped member 172 may be located on each of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, and the complementary conical member 174 may be located on the opposing moving platforms of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140. In one example, the cup-shaped member 172 may be located on the first moving platform 120 and the conical member 174 may be located on the second moving platform 140. In another example, the cup-shaped member 172 may be located on the second moving platform 140 and the conical member may be located on the first moving platform 120. The cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled by instructions from a controller 190. In another example, the cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 may be configured such that one or both may protrude from a retracted position within the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, respectively, and engage with each other. In yet another example, the cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 may be configured such that one or both may extend from the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, respectively, and engage with each other when properly aligned. The coupling feature 170 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use that data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the cup-shaped member 172 and the cone-shaped member 174 can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290. In an example, the controller 190 can use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the cup-shaped member 172 and the cone-shaped member 174.

[0114] Figure 3Hook 184 is shown. In one or more instances, the connecting feature 170 includes hook 184. Hook 184 may include a first hook portion 184a and a second hook portion 184b. The first hook portion 184a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and has a retractable ball hook configuration. The second hook portion 184b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first hook portion 184a is located and may have a dome shape complementary to the ball hook configuration (such as a connector configuration) of the first hook portion 184a. The first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to connect the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140 to form a connecting system 150. The first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be made of Figure 10 The connection can be made manually by operator 330 or automatically by instructions from controller 190. In one example, the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be configured such that one or both can protrude from retracted or hinged positions within the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, respectively, and engage with each other. In another example, the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be configured such that one or both can extend from the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, respectively, and engage or nest with each other when properly aligned. The connection feature 170 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b. Controller 190 may receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use that data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290. In this example, controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in the feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b.

[0115] Figure 3A trailer connector 176 is shown. In one or more instances, the connector feature 170 includes a trailer connector 176. The trailer connector 176 may include a first connector portion 176a and a second connector portion 176b. The first connector portion 176a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second connector portion 176b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first connector portion 176a is located. The first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b may be generally "C"-shaped and may be configured to nest or engage by any suitable means to connect the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 to form a connector system 150. The first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b may be manually connected by an operator 330 or automatically connected by instructions from a controller 190. The trailer connector 176 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b. In one example, the first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b may be configured such that one or both can protrude from a retracted or hinged position within the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, respectively, and engage with each other. In another example, the first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b may be configured such that one or both can extend from the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, respectively, and engage with each other when properly aligned. The controller 190 may receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use that data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290. In another example, the controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b.

[0116] Figure 4The diagram illustrates the use of two coupling features 170. In one or more instances, the coupling feature 170 includes a latch 188. The latch 188 may include a first latch portion 188a and a second latch portion 188b. The first latch portion 188a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second latch portion 188b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first latch portion 188a is located. The first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140. The first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled by instructions from a controller 190. The latch 188 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b. In one example, the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be configured such that one or both can protrude from a retracted or hinged position within the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, respectively, and engage with each other. In another example, the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be configured such that one or both can extend from the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, respectively, and engage with each other when properly aligned. The controller 190 may receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use that data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b can be engaged and disengaged based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290. In another example, the controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b.

[0117] In one or more instances, such as Figure 4 As shown, the connecting feature 170 includes a gripper 178. The gripper 178 may include a gripping portion 178a and an indexing portion 178b. The gripping portion 178a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and may include one or more indexing structures 179a. In one example, the gripping portion 178a may be configured to slide to engage with the indexing portion 178b. In one example, the indexing portion 178b may be configured to slide upwards onto the gripping portion 178a to engage or clamp the two together. In one example, one or more indexing structures 179a may have an interlocking cantilever structure configuration. The indexing portion 178b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the gripping portion 178a is located and may include one or more connecting structures 179b. Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown, the indexing structure 179a can be configured to align with and embed with the connecting structure 179b to connect the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140. The connecting structure 179b can be a pin configuration for interlocking with the indexing structure 179a, and the indexing structure 179a can have a hole or slot configuration. The clamping portion 178a and the indexing portion 178b can be connected manually by the operator 330 or automatically by instructions from the controller 190, for example, by sliding into position so that the indexing portion 178b is clamped within the clamping portion 178a. The clamp 178 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the indexing structure 179a and the connecting structure 179b when the indexing portion 178b is clamped within the clamping portion 178a. In this example, the indexing structure 179a can be retractable, allowing it to extend from the clamping portion 178a into the connecting structure 179b for alignment. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use that data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the clamping portion 178a and the indexing portion 178b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290. In an example, the controller 190 can use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the clamping portion 178a and the indexing portion 178b.

[0118] Figure 6The use of a coupling feature 170 is illustrated. In one or more instances, the coupling feature 170 includes a cam lock 186. The cam lock 186 may include a first locking portion 186a and a second locking portion 186b. The first locking portion 186a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and may have a cantilevered linear structure in the form of a cam configuration. The second locking portion 186b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first locking portion 186a is located and may have a base configuration for receiving the first locking portion 186a. The second locking portion 186b may be configured to lock the first locking portion 186a into place when rotated. The first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b may be configured to connect or lock the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 by any suitable means. The first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b may be manually connected by an operator 330 or automatically connected by instructions from a controller 190. The cam lock 186 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b. The controller 190 may receive data collected from the one or more sensors 240 and use that data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b can be engaged and disengaged based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290. In an example, the controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b.

[0119] Figure 7The use of a coupling feature 170 is illustrated. In one or more instances, the coupling feature 170 includes a guide rail 182. The guide rail 182 may include a guide rail portion 182a and a receiving portion 182b. The guide rail portion 182a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and may be mounted by any suitable coupling method, such as by means of a cantilever or coupler mechanism (not shown). The receiving portion 182b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the guide rail portion 182a is located. The guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140. In one instance, the guide rail portion 182a may slide into and slide along the receiving portion 182b to nest together. The guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b may be coupled manually by an operator 330 or automatically by instructions from a controller 190. The guide rail 182 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the guide rail portion 182a with the receiving portion 182b. The controller 190 may receive data collected from the one or more sensors 240 and use that data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b can be coupled and disengaged based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290. In one example, the controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the guide rail portion 182a into the receiving portion 182b.

[0120] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 11 In one or more instances, the manufacturing system 200 includes an automated machine 110 mounted on a first mobile platform 120. The automated machine 110 is configured to perform at least one manufacturing operation 210. In one or more instances, the automated machine 110 may be an automated fiber placement machine configured to deposit composite material 139. In one or more instances, the manufacturing system 200 includes a tool 130 mounted on a second mobile platform 140. In one instance, the second mobile platform 140 carries a workpiece 135, while the first mobile platform 120 carries the automated machine 110 configured to perform operations on the workpiece 135 on the second mobile platform 140. Figure 2 The tool 130 shown may include a mandrel 137 configured to hold a workpiece 135. An automated machine 110 may be configured to deposit a composite material 139 onto the workpiece 135, which may be located on the tool 130.

[0121] In one or more instances, manufacturing system 200 includes an indexing feature 175. The indexing feature 175 may be configured to index automated machine 110 relative to tool 130 or workpiece 135. The indexing feature 175 may include one or more of a gripper 178, a latch 188, a cup-shaped part 172 and a tapered part 174, a hook 184, a cam lock 186, a guide rail 182, and a trailer connector 176. In one or more instances, the indexing feature 175 and the coupling feature 170 are identical. In one or more instances, the coupling system 150 of manufacturing system 200 includes a combination of the indexing feature 175 and the coupling feature 170. A controller 190 may be configured to instruct the indexing and coupling of any manufactured workpiece 135 of any laying configuration, including but not limited to barrel sections, wing panels, fuselages, and any combinations thereof that move continuously along production line 160 in any order. For example, the manufacturing system 200 can support the manufacturing of wing panels as the wing panel travels along production line 160, followed by the barrel section traveling along production line 160 behind the wing.

[0122] Figure 4 A gripper 178 is shown. In one or more instances, the indexing feature 175 includes a gripper 178. The gripper 178 may include a gripping portion 178a and an indexing portion 178b. The gripping portion 178a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and may include, for example, Figure 5A One or more indexing structures 179a are shown. The indexing portion 178b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the clamping portion 178a is located, and may include one or more connecting structures 179b. The indexing structure 179a may be configured to align and nest with the connecting structure 179b to index the automated machine 110 relative to the tool 130, such as... Figure 5B As shown. The indexing can be performed manually by operator 330 or automatically via instructions from controller 190. In this example, controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in the feedback control loop to guide the alignment of clamping portions 178a and indexing portions 178b.

[0123] Figure 4A latch 188 is shown. In one or more instances, the indexing feature 175 includes a latch 188. The latch 188 may include a first latch portion 188a and a second latch portion 188b. The first latch portion 188a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second latch portion 188b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first latch portion 188a is located. The first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be configured to be nested or combined in any suitable manner to index the automated machine 110 relative to tool 130. Indexing may be performed manually by operator 330 or automatically by instructions from controller 190. In one instance, controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b.

[0124] Figure 3 A cup-shaped part 172 and a conical part 174 are shown. In one or more instances, the indexing feature 175 includes a cup-shaped part 172 and a conical part 174. The cup-shaped part 172 and the conical part 174 may be attached to a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and configured to nest together to index the automated machine 110 relative to the tool 130. In one instance, the cup-shaped part 172 may be located on the first moving platform 120 and the conical part 174 may be located on the second moving platform 140. In another instance, the cup-shaped part 172 may be located on the second moving platform 140 and the conical part may be located on the first moving platform 120. The cup-shaped part 172 and the conical part 174 may be indexed manually by an operator 330 or automatically by instructions from a controller 190. In one instance, the controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the cup-shaped part 172 and the conical part 174.

[0125] Figure 3Hook 184 is shown. In one or more instances, the indexing feature 175 includes hook 184. Hook 184 may include a first hook portion 184a and a second hook portion 184b. The first hook portion 184a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second hook portion 184b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first hook portion 184a is located. The first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to index the automated machine 110 relative to tool 130. The first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be indexed manually by operator 330 or automatically by instructions from controller 190. In one instance, controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b.

[0126] Figure 6 A cam lock 186 is shown. In one or more instances, the indexing feature 175 includes a cam lock 186. The cam lock 186 may include a first locking portion 186a and a second locking portion 186b. The first locking portion 186a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second locking portion 186b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first locking portion 186a is located. The first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b may be configured to be connected or locked by any suitable means to index the automated machine 110 relative to the tool 130. The first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b may be indexed manually by an operator 330 or automatically by instructions from a controller 190. In one instance, the controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b.

[0127] Figure 7A guide rail is shown. In one or more instances, the indexing feature 175 includes a guide rail 182. The guide rail 182 may include a guide rail portion 182a and a receiving portion 182b. The guide rail portion 182a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The receiving portion 182b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the guide rail portion 182a is located. The guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b may be configured to be nested or combined in any suitable manner to index the automated machine 110 relative to the tool 130. The guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b may be indexed manually by an operator 330 or automatically by instructions from a controller 190. In one instance, the controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b.

[0128] Figure 3 A trailer connector is shown. In one or more instances, the indexing feature 175 includes a trailer connector 176. The trailer connector 176 may include a first connector portion 176a and a second connector portion 176b. The first connector portion 176a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second connector portion 176b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first connector portion 176a is located. The first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b may be configured to be nested or combined in any suitable manner to index the automated machine 110 relative to the tool 130. The first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b may be indexed manually by an operator 330 or automatically by instructions from a controller 190. In one instance, the controller 190 may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 in a feedback control loop to guide the alignment of the first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b.

[0129] In one or more instances, tool 130 may include one or more sensors 240. Sensors 240 may be configured to facilitate the indexing of automated machine 110 using tool 130 based on commands 250 received from controller 190. Controller 190 may analyze data received from one or more sensors 240 and instruct movement of a first moving platform 120 and a second moving platform 140 based on one or more numerical control programs 290.

[0130] In one example, the automated machine 110 may include one or more sensors 240. The sensors 240 may be configured to facilitate indexing of the automated machine 110 relative to the tool 130 based on commands 250 received from the controller 190. The controller 190 may analyze the data received from the one or more sensors 240 and instruct movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140 based on one or more numerical control programs 290. In one example, the one or more sensors 240 may include barcodes, RDIF tags with associated readers, optical sensors, or any other means adapted to collect data on the position and location of at least the workpiece 135, the tool 130, the automated machine 110, the coupling feature 170, the indexing feature 175, and any objects positioned along the production line 160.

[0131] In one or more instances, the indexing feature 175 and the connecting feature 170 are identical. Indexing and connecting can occur simultaneously. In one or more instances, the manufacturing system 200 may include more than one indexing feature 175 and more than one connecting feature 170, such that some are identical and some are different. In one instance, the connecting feature 170 can be used to engage the first moving platform 120 with the second moving platform 140, and the indexing feature 175 can be used for alignment, such that the composite material 139 is accurately transferred to each workpiece 135.

[0132] In one or more instances, the manufacturing system 200 may be configured such that the automated machine 110 performs at least one manufacturing operation 210 while the coupling system 150 travels along the production line 160. In one instance, the coupling system 150 may continuously travel along the production line 160 while the automated machine 110 performs at least one manufacturing operation 210. Figure 2 In the example shown, at least one manufacturing operation 210 includes depositing composite material 139. Controller 190 can determine parameters of at least one manufacturing operation 210, including at least the type of operation performed, the amount of composite material 139 to be deposited, the location of the composite material 139 deposition on tool 130, the duration of composite material 139 deposition, and other parameters. First moving platform 120 and second moving platform 140 can be configured in any size or shape required for a particular workpiece 135 and automated machine 110, respectively. The disclosed manufacturing system 200 provides a hook-hiker arrangement in which tooling and techniques are coupled to the structure currently being processed, and the structure is advanced at a low rate while at least one manufacturing operation 210 is performed on the structure. The coupling system 150 is configured to subsequently disengage downstream and then return or recycle to the point of coupling or hooking with another tool on the second moving platform 140.

[0133] Reference Figure 8In one or more instances, a method 100 for depositing composite material 139 onto tool 130 is disclosed. Method 100 may include depositing composite material 139 onto tool 130 using at least one automated machine 110. In one or more instances, the automated machine is an automated fiber placement machine.

[0134] In one or more instances, method 100 includes coupling 104 of a first mobile platform 120 to a second mobile platform 140, as shown and described above and in the accompanying drawings. The coupling can be performed manually by operator 330 or automatically via command 250 received from controller 190. Controller 190 may utilize one or more CNC programs 290 to determine when and how to perform the coupling. Any means suitable for coupling the first mobile platform 120 to the second mobile platform 140 may be used. Examples shown and described above and in the accompanying drawings include the use of one or more coupling features 170, which may include one or more of a clamp 178, a latch 188, a cup-shaped member 172 and a tapered member 174, a hook 184, a cam lock 186, a guide rail 182, and a trailer coupling 176. In the example, coupling 104 is used to combine the first mobile platform 120 with the second mobile platform 140.

[0135] In this example, the coupling feature 170 may include a gripper 178. The gripper 178 may include a gripping portion 178a and an indexing portion 178b. The gripping portion 178a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and may include one or more indexing structures 179a. The indexing portion 178b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the gripping portion 178a is located and may include one or more connecting structures 179b. The indexing structure 179a may be configured to align and nest with the connecting structure 179b to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 and achieve coupling 104. The gripping portion 178a and the indexing portion 178b may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled via instructions from a controller 190. The gripper 178 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the indexing structure 179a and the connecting structure 179b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the clamping part 178a and the indexing part 178b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0136] In this example, the coupling feature 170 may include a latch 188. The latch 188 may include a first latch portion 188a and a second latch portion 188b. The first latch portion 188a may be located on either a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second latch portion 188b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first latch portion 188a is located. The first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be configured to be nested or combined in any suitable manner to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 and achieve coupling 104. The first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled via instructions from a controller 190. The latch 188 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more numerical control programs 290.

[0137] Figure 3 A cup-shaped component 172 and a cone-shaped component 174 are shown. In an example, the connecting feature 170 may include the cup-shaped component 172 and the cone-shaped component 174. The cup-shaped component 172 and the cone-shaped component 174 may be attached to a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and configured to nest the first moving platform 120 with the second moving platform 140 and combine the first moving platform 120 with the second moving platform 140. In one example, the cup-shaped component 172 may be located on the first moving platform 120 and the cone-shaped component 174 may be located on the second moving platform 140 to achieve connection 104. In another example, the cup-shaped component 172 may be located on the second moving platform 140 and the cone-shaped component may be located on the first moving platform 120. The cup-shaped component 172 and the cone-shaped component 174 may be manually connected by an operator 330 or automatically connected by instructions from a controller 190. The coupling feature 170 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174. The controller 190 may receive data collected from the one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 may be coupled and decoupled based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0138] Figure 3Hook 184 is shown. In this example, the coupling feature 170 may include hook 184. Hook 184 may include a first hook portion 184a and a second hook portion 184b. The first hook portion 184a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second hook portion 184b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first hook portion 184a is located. The first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 to form coupling system 106 150 and achieve coupling 104. The first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be coupled manually by operator 330 or automatically by instructions from controller 190. The coupling feature 170 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0139] Figure 6 A cam lock 186 is shown. In this example, the coupling feature 170 may include the cam lock 186. The cam lock 186 may include a first locking portion 186a and a second locking portion 186b. The first locking portion 186a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second locking portion 186b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first locking portion 186a is located. The first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b may be configured to be connected or locked by any suitable means to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 and achieve coupling 104. The first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled by instructions from a controller 190. The cam lock 186 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first locking part 186a and the second locking part 186b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0140] Figure 7Guide rail 182 is shown. In this example, coupling feature 170 may include guide rail 182. Guide rail 182 may include guide rail portion 182a and receiving portion 182b. Guide rail portion 182a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. Receiving portion 182b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where guide rail portion 182a is located. Guide rail portion 182a and receiving portion 182b may be configured to be nested or combined in any suitable manner to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 and achieve coupling 104. Guide rail portion 182a and receiving portion 182b may be coupled manually by operator 330 or automatically by instructions from controller 190. Guide rail 182 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of guide rail portion 182a and receiving portion 182b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0141] Figure 3 Trailer connector 176 is shown. In this example, connector feature 170 may include trailer connector 176. Trailer connector 176 may include a first connector portion 176a and a second connector portion 176b. The first connector portion 176a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second connector portion 176b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first connector portion 176a is located. The first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to connect the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 to achieve connector 104 and form connector system 150 106. The first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b may be manually connected by operator 330 or automatically connected by instructions from controller 190. Trailer connector 176 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0142] The formation of the connection system 150 (106) may occur upon completion of connection 104. In one or more instances, the first moving platform 120 of the connection system 150 may support at least one automated machine 110. A second moving platform may support either tool 130 or workpiece 135 independently of tool 130.

[0143] In one or more instances, method 100 includes indexing 102 of an automated machine relative to tool 130 prior to the transfer or deposition of composite material 139, to provide precise alignment of the automated machine 110 with respect to tool 130. Indexing 102 can be implemented by any suitable means, including the use of at least one indexing feature 175. Once the coupling system 150 is formed, indexing 102 can be used to fine-tune the alignment of workpiece 135 with the automated machine 110 for proper transfer of composite material 139 and workpiece 135 placement. In one or more instances, indexing 102 can be implemented using one or more sensors 240. In some instances, indexing 102 and coupling 104 can occur simultaneously. In some instances, indexing 102 and coupling 104 can be implemented using the same means, such that indexing feature 175 and coupling feature 170 are the same feature and simultaneously achieve the generation of coupling system 150 and alignment of workpiece 135 with automated machine 110. In one or more instances, indexing 102 can be implemented using at least one indexing feature 175 and at least one sensor 240. In this example, at least one sensor 240 may be located on one or more of the first moving platform 120, the second moving platform 140, the automated machine 110, and the tool 130. The indexing feature 175 may include at least one of a gripper 178, a latch 188, a cup-shaped member 172 and a tapered member 174, a hook 184, a cam lock 186, a guide rail 182, and a trailer connector 176. In this example, any of the aforementioned connecting devices may be used in conjunction with any of the aforementioned indexing devices via the same or different means.

[0144] In one or more instances, the automated machine 110 utilizing tool 130 indexing 102 includes receiving command 250. In one instance, command 250 may originate from controller 190. Controller 190 may communicate with one or more of the indexing feature 175, coupling feature 170, automated machine 110, first moving platform 120, and second moving platform 140. Controller 190 may utilize one or more Global Positioning System (GPS) 220, sensors 240, lasers 230, numerical control programs 290, barcodes 197, or any other suitable means for determining the correct alignment of automated machine 110 relative to tool 130. In other words, the movement of the first moving platform (120) and the second moving platform (140) may be controlled by GPS 220, sensors 240, lasers 230, numerical control programs 290, barcodes 197, etc. In one instance, command 250 may be transmitted wirelessly.

[0145] In one or more instances, method 100 may include depositing 108 of composite material 139 from automated machine 110 onto tool 130. Deposition 108 may occur as coupling system 150 travels along production line 160. In one or more instances, coupling system 150 may move continuously along production line 160. Coupling system 150 may be driven along production line 160 by a second moving platform 140 via motion controller 195. In one instance, coupling system 150 may be driven along production line 160 by a first moving platform 120 via motion controller 195, the motion controller being configured to guide and direct coupling system 150, first moving platform 120, or second moving platform 140 to a desired position. Motion controller 195 may be indicated using one or more sensors 240, CNC program 290, or any other input from controller 190 or operator 330. In one instance, coupling system 150 may move along production line 160 in a pulsed manner.

[0146] In one or more instances, method 100 may include decoupling 112 of the coupling system 150. Decoupling 112 may be performed when the coupling system 150 moves continuously along the production line 160, or when the coupling system 150 moves along the production line 160 in a pulsed manner. In one instance, decoupling 112 may occur in response to a command 250 transmitted from a controller 190. The controller may use data collected from one or more sensors 240 to determine when decoupling 112 occurs. In one instance, controller 190 may use one or more CNC programs 290 to determine when decoupling 112 occurs. In one instance, decoupling 112 may be performed manually by an operator 330. See also Figure 14 .

[0147] In one or more instances, method 100 further includes advancing a second mobile platform 140 114 to a predetermined position 169 on production line 160. In one instance, the predetermined position 169 may be an autoclave 260. The predetermined position 169 may be located at a subsequent station 400 along production line 160. In one instance, controller 190 may be configured to determine when advancing 114 occurs and where the predetermined position 169 is located. Controller 190 may also initiate advancing 114 via transmission command 250. Controller 190 may determine when advancing occurs based on data received from one or more sensors 240. In one instance, controller 190 may determine when advancing 114 occurs based on one or more CNC programs 290. In one instance, advancing 114 is performed manually by operator 330. See also Figure 14 .

[0148] In one or more instances, method 100 further includes returning the first mobile platform 120 116 to a starting position 165 along the production line 160. In one instance, the first mobile platform 120 may be moved to a predetermined position 169. Once the first mobile platform 120 has returned to the starting position or been moved to the predetermined position 169, it may be configured to be coupled 104 to a different mobile platform for performing additional manufacturing operations 210.

[0149] In one or more instances, method 100 includes connecting a third mobile platform 180 to a second mobile platform 140 by a coupling 104 to form a coupling system 150. The coupling 104 can occur through any combination of the aforementioned coupling features 170. In one instance, the third mobile platform 180 may support an automated machine 110. Method 100 may also include indexing the second automated machine using tool 130 before depositing composite material 139 108 onto tool 130. In one instance, the automated machine 110, located on the first mobile platform 120 and the second mobile platform 140, may simultaneously deposit composite material 139 onto tool 130. In one instance, the first mobile platform 120 and the third mobile platform 180 may be disconnected from the second mobile platform 140 simultaneously or at different times by a coupling 112. When the first mobile platform 120 and the third mobile platform 180 are not simultaneously disconnected, the mobile platform still connected to the second mobile platform 140 after the other mobile platform has been disconnected may continue depositing composite material 139 while the unconnected mobile platform moves to a predetermined position 169. In this example, the predetermined position 169 can be the starting position 165.

[0150] refer to Figure 9In one or more embodiments, a method 300 is disclosed for laminating a composite component onto a tool 130 located on a second mobile platform 140 using an automated machine 110 located on a first mobile platform 120. In one embodiment, method 300 includes moving the first mobile platform 120 302 to a predetermined position 169. Movement 302 may occur via a motion controller 195 coupled to the first mobile platform 120. In one embodiment, the predetermined position 169 may be close to the second mobile platform 140 located in a station 400. In one embodiment, one or more sensors 240 may be disposed on the first mobile platform 120, the second mobile platform 140, the motion controller 195, or a combination thereof. The controller 190 may be configured to receive data collected from the one or more sensors and determine the positions of the tool 130, the automated machine 110, the first mobile platform 120, and the second mobile platform 140. The controller 190 may transmit a command 250 to initiate movement 302 of the first mobile platform 120 to the predetermined position 169. See also Figure 15 .

[0151] In one or more instances, method 300 may further include coupling 304 of the first mobile platform 120 to the second mobile platform 140 to form a coupling system 150. Coupling 304 may be implemented using coupling features 170. Coupling features 170 may include one or more of a clamp 178, a latch 188, a cup-shaped member 172 and a tapered member 174, a hook 184, a cam lock 186, a guide rail 182, and a trailer connector 176. See also Figure 15 .

[0152] In one example, the coupling feature 170 includes a cup-shaped member 172 and a conical member 174. The cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 may be attached to a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and configured to nest and combine the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140 to achieve coupling 304. In one example, the cup-shaped member 172 may be located on the first moving platform 120 and the conical member 174 may be located on the second moving platform 140. In another example, the cup-shaped member 172 may be located on the second moving platform 140 and the conical member may be located on the first moving platform 120. The cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 may be coupled manually by an operator 330 or automatically by instructions from a controller 190. The coupling feature 170 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0153] In one or more instances, the coupling feature 170 includes a hook 184. The hook 184 may include a first hook portion 184a and a second hook portion 184b. The first hook portion 184a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second hook portion 184b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first hook portion 184a is located. The first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 to form a coupling system 150 and achieve coupling 304. The first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be coupled manually by an operator 330 or automatically by instructions from a controller 190. The coupling feature 170 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0154] In one or more instances, the coupling feature 170 includes a trailer coupler 176. The trailer coupler 176 may include a first coupler portion 176a and a second coupler portion 176b. The first coupler portion 176a may be located on a first mobile platform 120 or a second mobile platform 140. The second coupler portion 176b may be located on a mobile platform opposite to the mobile platform where the first coupler portion 176a is located. The first coupler portion 176a and the second coupler portion 176b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to couple the first mobile platform 120 to the second mobile platform 140 to form a coupling system 150 and achieve coupling 304. The first coupler portion 176a and the second coupler portion 176b may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled by instructions from a controller 190. The trailer coupler 176 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first coupler portion 176a and the second coupler portion 176b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0155] In one or more instances, the coupling feature 170 includes a latch 188. The latch 188 may include a first latch portion 188a and a second latch portion 188b. The first latch portion 188a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second latch portion 188b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first latch portion 188a is located. The first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 and achieve coupling 304. The first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be coupled manually by an operator 330 or automatically by instructions from a controller 190. The latch 188 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more numerical control programs 290.

[0156] In one or more instances, the coupling feature 170 includes a gripper 178. The gripper 178 may include a gripping portion 178a and an indexing portion 178b. The gripping portion 178a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and may include one or more indexing structures 179a. The indexing portion 178b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the gripping portion 178a is located and may include one or more connecting structures 179b. The indexing structure 179a may be configured to align with and nest with the connecting structure 179b to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 and achieve coupling 304. The gripping portion 178a and the indexing portion 178b may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled via instructions from a controller 190. The gripper 178 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the indexing structure 179a and the connecting structure 179b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the clamping part 178a and the indexing part 178b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0157] In one or more instances, the coupling feature 170 includes a cam lock 186. The cam lock 186 may include a first locking portion 186a and a second locking portion 186b. The first locking portion 186a may be located on either the first moving platform 120 or the second moving platform 140. The second locking portion 186b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first locking portion 186a is located. The first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b may be configured to connect or lock by any suitable means to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 and achieve coupling 304. The first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b may be manually connected by an operator 330 or automatically connected by instructions from a controller 190. The cam lock 186 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first locking part 186a and the second locking part 186b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0158] In one or more instances, the connecting feature 170 includes a guide rail 182. The guide rail 182 may include a guide rail portion 182a and a receiving portion 182b. The guide rail portion 182a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The receiving portion 182b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the guide rail portion 182a is located. The guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b may be configured to be nested or combined in any suitable manner to connect the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 and achieve connection 304. The guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b may be manually connected by an operator 330 or automatically connected by instructions from a controller 190. The guide rail 182 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0159] Method 300 may also include an automated machine 110 with respect to tool 130 indexing 303. Indexing 303 may be implemented using indexing feature 175. In an example, indexing 303 may also utilize one or more sensors 240. Indexing feature 175 may include one or more of gripper 178, latch 188, cup-shaped part 172 and tapered part 174, hook 184, cam lock 186, guide rail 182 and trailer connector 176, as shown and described above and in the figures. In an example, indexing 303 and coupling 304 may occur simultaneously. In an example, indexing feature 175 and coupling feature 170 may be the same.

[0160] Method 300 may further include driving 306 of the coupling system 150 along production line 160 via one or more motion controllers 195. Production line 160 may be continuously moving. Motion controllers 195 may be coupled to a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 such that the coupling system 150 can be driven by either the first moving platform 120 or the second moving platform 140. In an example, motion controllers 195 may be coupled to both the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140. One or more motion controllers 195 may communicate with controller 190. In an example, controller 190 may utilize one or more sensors 240 to determine when the drive 306 occurs, the duration of the drive 306, and where the coupling system 150 is driven. In an example, controller 190 may utilize one or more CNC programs 290 to determine how long the drive 306 occurs and where the coupling system 150 is driven. In an example, the drive 306 is manually generated by operator 330.

[0161] In one or more instances, method 300 includes depositing composite material 139 from automated machine 110 to tool 130 via a drive coupling system 150 (drive 306) along production line 160. Deposition 308 may include laying down composite material 139 to form a composite structure of workpiece 135. In instances, coupling system 150 may move continuously along production line 160 or move in a pulsed manner along production line 160. Controller 190 may be configured to determine the amount of composite material 139 to be deposited and the position on tool 130 for deposition 308. Controller 190 may utilize one or more sensors 240 to determine deposition 308 parameters. In instances, controller 190 may utilize one or more numerical control programs 290 to determine deposition 308 parameters.

[0162] In one or more instances, method 300 includes disconnecting the coupling system 150 310 upon completion of deposition 308 of composite material 139. Disconnection 310 may be performed manually by operator 330 or automatically based on command 250 received from controller 190. Controller 190 may use data received from one or more sensors 240 to determine when disconnection 310 occurs. In one instance, controller 190 utilizes one or more numerical control programs 290 to determine when disconnection 310 occurs. Controller 190 may utilize a combination of data collected from one or more sensors 240 and one or more numerical control programs 290 to determine when disconnection 310 occurs.

[0163] In one example, method 300 may further include returning the first moving platform 120 314 to a starting position 165 along production line 160. In another example, the return 314 of method 300 may include moving the first moving platform 120 to a predetermined position 169. The return 314 may occur via one or more motion controllers 195. In another example, controller 195 may determine when the return 314 occurs based on inputs received from one or more sensors 240, one or more CNC programs 290, or a combination thereof. In another example, the return 314 may be performed manually by operator 330.

[0164] In an example, method 300 may further include advancing the second mobile platform 140 312 to a predetermined position 169. Advancing 312 may be driven by a motion controller 195. The motion controller 195 may initiate advancing 312 based on a command 250 received from a controller 190. The controller 190 may determine when advancing 312 occurs based on inputs received from one or more sensors 240, one or more CNC programs 290, or a combination thereof. In an example, advancing 312 may be performed manually by an operator 330. The predetermined position 169 may be an autoclave 260. In an example, method 300 may further include compaction 270 and consolidation 280 of the deposited composite material 139.

[0165] In one or more instances, Figure 1 and Figure 2 An apparatus 320 for laminating composite components on a production line 160 is shown. Production line 160 may be a continuous flow production line. The apparatus 320 may include an automated machine 110. The automated machine 110 may be positioned and mounted on a first moving platform 120. The first moving platform 120 may be configured to travel continuously or in a pulsed manner along production line 160. The first moving platform may be driven by a motion controller 195. In an example, the controller 190 may utilize a numerical control program 290 to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 along production line 160.

[0166] In one example, device 320 may include tool 130 located on and mounted on a second moving platform 140. The second moving platform 140 may be configured to travel continuously or in pulses along production line 160. The second moving platform may be driven by motion controller 195. In one example, controller 190 may utilize CNC program 290 to control the movement of the second moving platform 140 along production line 160.

[0167] In one example, device 320 may include a coupling feature 170. The coupling feature 170 may be configured to couple a first moving platform 120 to a second moving platform 140 such that the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140 can travel along production line 160 as a coupling system 150. The coupling feature 170 may include one or more of a gripper 178, a latch 188, a cup-shaped member 172 and a tapered member 174, a hook 184, a cam lock 186, a guide rail 182, and a trailer connector 176. In one example, the coupling feature 170 includes one or more sensors 240 to facilitate accuracy when coupling the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140.

[0168] In this example, the coupling feature 170 may include a gripper 178. The gripper 178 may include a gripping portion 178a and an indexing portion 178b. The gripping portion 178a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and may include one or more indexing structures 179a. The indexing portion 178b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the gripping portion 178a is located and may include one or more connecting structures 179b. The indexing structure 179a may be configured to align with and nest with the connecting structure 179b to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140. The gripping portion 178a and the indexing portion 178b may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled via instructions from a controller 190. The gripper 178 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the indexing structure 179a and the connecting structure 179b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the clamping part 178a and the indexing part 178b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0169] In this example, the coupling feature 170 may include a latch 188. The latch 188 may include a first latch portion 188a and a second latch portion 188b. The first latch portion 188a may be located on either a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second latch portion 188b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first latch portion 188a is located. The first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140. The first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled via instructions from a controller 190. The latch 188 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first latch portion 188a and the second latch portion 188b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more numerical control programs 290.

[0170] In one example, the coupling feature 170 may include a cup-shaped member 172 and a conical member 174. The cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 may be attached to a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140 and configured to nest the first moving platform 120 with the second moving platform 140 and to combine the first moving platform 120 with the second moving platform 140. In one example, the cup-shaped member 172 may be located on the first moving platform 120 and the conical member 174 may be located on the second moving platform 140. In another example, the cup-shaped member 172 may be located on the second moving platform 140 and the conical member may be located on the first moving platform 120. The cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled by instructions from a controller 190. The coupling feature 170 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the cup-shaped member 172 and the conical member 174 can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0171] In this example, the coupling feature 170 may include a hook 184. The hook 184 may include a first hook portion 184a and a second hook portion 184b. The first hook portion 184a may be located on a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The second hook portion 184b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first hook portion 184a is located. The first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140 to form a coupling system 106 150. The first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled via instructions from a controller 190. The coupling feature 170 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the first hook portion 184a and the second hook portion 184b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0172] In this example, the coupling feature 170 may include a cam lock 186. The cam lock 186 may include a first locking portion 186a and a second locking portion 186b. The first locking portion 186a may be located on either the first moving platform 120 or the second moving platform 140. The second locking portion 186b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the first locking portion 186a is located. The first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b may be configured to connect or lock by any suitable means to couple the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140. The first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b may be manually connected by an operator 330 or automatically connected by instructions from a controller 190. The cam lock 186 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first locking portion 186a and the second locking portion 186b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first locking part 186a and the second locking part 186b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0173] In this example, the connecting feature 170 may include a guide rail 182. The guide rail 182 may include a guide rail portion 182a and a receiving portion 182b. The guide rail portion 182a may be located on either a first moving platform 120 or a second moving platform 140. The receiving portion 182b may be located on a moving platform opposite to the moving platform where the guide rail portion 182a is located. The guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b may be configured to be nested or combined in any suitable manner to connect the first moving platform 120 to the second moving platform 140. The guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b may be manually connected by an operator 330 or automatically connected via instructions from a controller 190. The guide rail 182 may also include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, so that the guide rail portion 182a and the receiving portion 182b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0174] In this example, the coupling feature 170 may include a trailer coupler 176. The trailer coupler 176 may include a first coupler portion 176a and a second coupler portion 176b. The first coupler portion 176a may be located on a first mobile platform 120 or a second mobile platform 140. The second coupler portion 176b may be located on a mobile platform opposite to the mobile platform where the first coupler portion 176a is located. The first coupler portion 176a and the second coupler portion 176b may be configured to nest or combine in any suitable manner to couple the first mobile platform 120 to the second mobile platform 140 and form a coupling system 106 150. The first coupler portion 176a and the second coupler portion 176b may be manually coupled by an operator 330 or automatically coupled by instructions from a controller 190. The trailer coupler 176 may include one or more sensors 240 to facilitate proper alignment of the first coupler portion 176a and the second coupler portion 176b. The controller 190 can receive data collected from one or more sensors 240 and use the data to control the movement of the first moving platform 120 and the second moving platform 140, such that the first connector portion 176a and the second connector portion 176b can be connected and disconnected based on instructions from one or more CNC programs 290.

[0175] In one or more instances, device 320 may include an indexing feature 175. The indexing feature 175 may be configured to index and align with the automated machine 110 relative to tool 130. The indexing feature 175 may include one or more of a gripper 178, a latch 188, a cup-shaped part 172 and a tapered part 174, a hook 184, a cam lock 186, a guide rail 182, and a trailer connector 176, as shown and described above and in the figures. In one instance, the indexing feature 175 and the coupling feature 170 are identical, such that coupling and indexing occur simultaneously. In another instance, the indexing feature 175 includes one or more sensors 240.

[0176] In one or more instances, device 320 includes a motion controller 195 coupled to a first mobile platform 120 or a second mobile platform 140. In one instance, device 320 includes a controller 190 configured to detect the position of the first mobile platform 120, the position of the second mobile platform 140, and the state of the automated machine 110 via one or more sensors 240 located at various locations on device 320. The controller 190 may also be configured to analyze data collected from the sensors 240 located on device 320.

[0177] In this example, controller 190 is configured to control the state of coupling feature 170, control the travel parameters of the first mobile platform 120, and control the travel parameters of the second mobile platform 140. Controller 190 may utilize CNC program 290, sensor 240, GPS 220, laser 230, barcode 197, or any other suitable means of collecting and analyzing data to determine travel parameters. In this example, the first mobile platform 120 and the second mobile platform 140 are configured to travel independently of each other using one or more motion controllers 195 when in an uncoupled state.

[0178] Figure 13 An exemplary flowchart of method 500 is shown. In one or more instances, method 500 for manufacturing workpiece 135 is disclosed. In one instance, method 500 includes coupling a first mobile platform 120 to a second mobile platform 140 502 to form a coupling system 150. In one instance, the first mobile platform 120 may support or hold an automated machine 110. In one instance, the second mobile platform 140 may support workpiece 135. Workpiece 135 may be located on a tool 130. Method 500 may also include indexing 504 of the automated machine 110 relative to workpiece 135. In one instance, method 500 includes movement 506 along a production line 160. The movement may be continuous 506a or pulsed 506b. In one instance, method 500 includes transferring composite material 139 from the automated machine 110 508 onto workpiece 135.

[0179] It is possible to do as Figure 11 The aircraft manufacturing and maintenance methods shown in 1100 and as follows Figure 12 Examples of this disclosure are described in the background of the illustrated aircraft 1102. During pre-production, aircraft manufacturing and maintenance methods 1100 may include the specification and design 1104 of the aircraft 1102 and material procurement 1106. During production, component / sub-component manufacturing 1108 and system integration 1110 of the aircraft 1102 are carried out. Thereafter, the aircraft 1102 can be certified and delivered 1112 for entry into service 1114. When used by the customer, the aircraft 1102 is scheduled for routine maintenance and servicing 1116, which may also include modifications, remodeling, refurbishment, etc.

[0180] Each step of Method 1100 may be performed or implemented by a system integrator, a third party, and / or an operator (e.g., a customer). For the purposes of this specification, a system integrator may include, but is not limited to, any number of aircraft manufacturers and main system subcontractors; a third party may include, but is not limited to, any number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers; and an operator may be an airline, leasing company, military entity, service organization, etc.

[0181] like Figure 12 As shown, an aircraft 1102 produced by exemplary method 1100 may include an airframe 1118, multiple systems 1120, and an interior 1122. Examples of the multiple systems 1120 may include one or more of a propulsion system 1124, an electrical system 1126, a hydraulic system 1128, and an environmental system 1130. Any number of other systems may be included.

[0182] The disclosed methods and systems can be used during any one or more stages of the aircraft manufacturing and maintenance method 1100. As an example, components or sub-components corresponding to component / sub-component manufacturing 1108, system integration 1110, and / or maintenance and servicing 1116 can be assembled using the disclosed methods and systems. As another example, airframe 1118 can be constructed using the disclosed methods and systems. Furthermore, one or more examples of apparatus, methods, or combinations thereof can be utilized during component / sub-component manufacturing 1108 and / or system integration 1110, for example, by significantly accelerating the assembly of aircraft 1102 (such as airframe 1118 and / or interior 1122) or reducing its cost. Similarly, one or more of the system examples, method examples, or combinations thereof can be utilized during the use of aircraft 1102, for example, but not limited to maintenance and servicing 1116.

[0183] The aspects of the disclosed examples can be implemented in software, hardware, firmware, or a combination thereof. The various elements of the system (individually or in combination) can be implemented as a computer program product tangibly embodied in a machine-readable storage device for execution by a processor. The various steps of the examples can be executed by a computer processor that executes the program tangibly embodied on a computer-readable medium to perform functions by manipulating inputs and generating outputs. The computer-readable medium can be, for example, a memory, a transferable medium such as an optical disk or flash drive, such that the computer program embodying the aspects of the disclosed examples can be loaded onto a computer.

[0184] The methods and systems described above are set in the context of aircraft. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the disclosed methods and systems are suitable for a wide range of applications, and that this disclosure is not limited to aircraft manufacturing applications. For example, the disclosed methods and systems can be implemented in various types of vehicles, including, for example, helicopters, passenger ships, automobiles, marine products (ships, motors, etc.). Non-vehicle applications are also envisioned.

[0185] Furthermore, although the above description describes methods and systems that can be used to manufacture aircraft or aircraft components in the aerospace industry according to various regulations (e.g., commercial, military, etc.), it is conceivable that the disclosed methods and systems can be implemented to facilitate the manufacture of parts in any industry according to applicable industrial standards. Specific methods and systems can be selected and customized according to specific applications.

[0186] The following items are also provided here, which relate to:

[0187] 1. A method (500) for manufacturing a workpiece (135), the method (500) comprising:

[0188] The first mobile platform (120) and the second mobile platform (140) are connected (502) to form a connection system (150), wherein the first mobile platform (120) supports the automated machine (110) and the second mobile platform (140) supports the workpiece (135);

[0189] Relative to the workpiece (135) indexing (504) automated machine (110);

[0190] Move (506) along the production line (160); and

[0191] The composite material (139) is transferred (508) from the automated machine (110) onto the workpiece (135).

[0192] 2. A method (100) for depositing composite material onto a tool (130) using an automated machine (110), the method (100) comprising:

[0193] The first mobile platform (120) and the second mobile platform (140) are connected (104) to form a connection system (150), wherein the first mobile platform (120) supports the automated machine (110) and the second mobile platform (140) supports the tool (130);

[0194] Relative to tool (130) indexing (102) automated machine (110); and

[0195] As the coupling system (150) moves along the production line (160), it deposits (108) composite material (139) from the automated machine (110) onto the tool (130).

[0196] 3. The method (100) according to item 2, wherein the second moving platform (140) moves continuously along the production line (160).

[0197] 4. The method (100) according to item 2 or 3, wherein the second moving platform (140) moves along the production line (160) in a pulse manner.

[0198] 5. The method according to any one of items 2 to 4 further includes disconnecting (112) the connection system (150).

[0199] 6. The method (100) according to any one of items 2 to 5 further includes advancing (114) the second mobile platform (140) to a predetermined position (169) on the production line (160).

[0200] 7. The method (100) according to item 6, wherein the predetermined position (169) is an autoclave (260).

[0201] 8. The method (100) according to any one of items 2 to 7, wherein the method includes returning the first moving platform (120) (116) to the starting position on the production line (160).

[0202] 9. The method (100) according to any one of items 2 to 8, wherein the automated machine (110) is an automated fiber placement machine.

[0203] 10. The method (100) according to any one of items 2 to 9 further includes connecting the third mobile platform (180) to the second mobile platform (140) to form a connection system (150), wherein the third mobile platform (180) supports the second automated machine (110).

[0204] 11. The method (100) according to any one of items 2 to 10, wherein the joining (104) and the indexing (102) are performed simultaneously.

[0205] 12. The method (100) according to any one of items 2 to 11, wherein indexing of the automated machine (110) located on the first mobile platform (120) with respect to the tool (130) located on the second mobile platform (140) includes receiving a command (250).

[0206] 13. The method (100) according to item 12, wherein the command (250) is wireless.

[0207] 14. The method (100) according to item 2, wherein the production line (160) is straight.

[0208] 15. The method (100) according to item 2, wherein the production line (160) is curved.

[0209] 16. The method (100) according to item 2, wherein the tool (130) includes a sensor (240).

[0210] 17. The method (100) according to item 2, wherein the production line (160) includes a track (167).

[0211] 18. A manufacturing system (200), comprising:

[0212] Production line (160);

[0213] An automated machine (110) is located on a first mobile platform (120) and is configured to perform at least one manufacturing operation (210);

[0214] The workpiece (135) is located on the second moving platform (140); and

[0215] The connecting feature (170) is configured to connect the first mobile platform (120) and the second mobile platform (140) to form a connecting system (150).

[0216] The first mobile platform (120) and the second mobile platform (140) are configured to travel along the production line (160) as a connecting system (150) while the automated machine (110) performs at least one manufacturing operation (210).

[0217] 19. The manufacturing system (200) according to item 18 further includes an indexing feature (175) configured to index the automated machine (110) relative to the workpiece (135).

[0218] 20. The manufacturing system (200) according to item 19, wherein the indexing feature (175) and the connecting feature (170) are identical.

[0219] 21. The manufacturing system (200) according to any one of items 18 to 20, wherein the coupling system (150) is configured to decouple upon completion of at least one manufacturing operation (210).

[0220] 22. The manufacturing system (200) according to any one of items 18 to 21, wherein at least one manufacturing operation (210) includes depositing a composite material (139) onto a workpiece (135).

[0221] 23. The manufacturing system (200) according to any one of items 18 to 22, wherein the connecting feature (170) includes a latch (188).

[0222] 24. The manufacturing system (200) according to any one of items 18 to 23, wherein the connecting feature (170) includes a clamp (178).

[0223] 25. The manufacturing system (200) according to any one of items 18 to 24, wherein the connecting feature (170) includes a cam lock (186).

[0224] 26. The manufacturing system (200) according to any one of items 18 to 25, wherein the connecting feature (170) comprises a cup-shaped part (172) and a tapered part (174).

[0225] 27. The manufacturing system (200) according to any one of items 18 to 26, wherein the connecting feature (170) includes a guide rail (182).

[0226] 28. The manufacturing system (200) according to any one of items 18 to 27, wherein the connecting feature (170) includes a hook (184).

[0227] 29. The manufacturing system (200) according to any one of items 18 to 28, wherein the connecting feature (170) includes a trailer connector (176).

[0228] 30. A method (300) for laminating a composite component onto a tool (130) located on a second mobile platform (140) using an automated machine (110) located on a first mobile platform (120), the method comprising:

[0229] Move the first mobile platform (120) (302) to the predetermined position (169);

[0230] The first mobile platform (120) is connected (304) to the second mobile platform (140) to form a connection system (150);

[0231] The motion controller (195) drives (306) the coupling system (150) along the continuous moving production line (160);

[0232] As the coupling system (150) moves along the continuous moving production line (160), it deposits (308) the composite material (139) from the automated machine (110) onto the tool (130);

[0233] Upon completion of deposition (308), disconnect the coupling system (150) (310);

[0234] The first moving platform (120) is returned (314) along the continuous moving production line (160) to the starting position (165); and

[0235] The second moving platform (140) is advanced (312) to the autoclave (260).

[0236] 31. The method (300) according to item 30, wherein the second moving platform (140) moves continuously along the continuous moving production line (160).

[0237] 32. The method (300) according to item 30 or item 31, wherein the second moving platform (140) moves in a pulse manner along the continuous moving production line (160).

[0238] 33. The method (300) according to items 30 to 32, wherein the coupling system (150) is driven by a motion controller (195) located on the first mobile platform (120).

[0239] 34. The method (300) according to items 30 to 33, wherein the coupling system (150) is driven by a motion controller (195) located on the second mobile platform (140).

[0240] 35. The method (300) according to items 30 to 34 further includes compaction (270) and consolidation (280).

[0241] 36. An apparatus (320) for laminating composite components on a production line (160), the apparatus (320) comprising:

[0242] An automated machine (110) is mounted on a first mobile platform (140), wherein the first mobile platform (120) is guided along the production line (160);

[0243] A tool (130) is mounted on a second mobile platform (140), which is guided along the production line (160);

[0244] The connecting feature (170) is configured to connect the first moving platform (120) and the second moving platform (140) so that the first moving platform (120) and the second moving platform (140) can travel along the production line (160) as a connecting system (150);

[0245] A motion controller (195) is connected to a second mobile platform (140); and

[0246] The controller (190) is configured to detect the position of the first moving platform (120), the position of the second moving platform (140), and the status of the automated machine (110).

[0247] The controller (190) is configured to control the state of the connecting feature (170), control the travel parameters of the first moving platform (120), and control the travel parameters of the second moving platform (140).

[0248] The first mobile platform (120) and the second mobile platform (140) are configured to move independently of each other when in an unconnected state.

[0249] 37. The device (320) according to item 36, wherein the second moving platform (140) moves continuously along the production line (160).

[0250] 38. The device (320) according to item 36 or 37, wherein the second moving platform (140) moves along the production line (160) in a pulse manner.

[0251] 39. The equipment (320) according to items 36 to 38, wherein the production line (160) includes a track (167).

[0252] 40. The device (320) according to items 36 to 39, wherein the movement of the first mobile platform (120) and the second mobile platform (140) is controlled by a global positioning system (220).

[0253] 41. The device (320) according to items 36 to 40, wherein the movement of the first moving platform (120) and the second moving platform (140) is controlled by a laser (230).

[0254] The features, advantages, and characteristics described in one instance can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more other instances. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the instances described herein can be practiced without the presence of one or more specific features or advantages in a particular instance. In other cases, additional features and advantages that may not be present in all instances may be recognized in certain instances. Furthermore, while various instances of manufacturing system 200, apparatus 320, method 300, and method 100 have been shown and described, modifications will be conceived by those skilled in the art upon reading the specification, and this application includes such modifications and is limited only by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method (500) for manufacturing a workpiece (135), the method (500) comprising: A second moving platform (140) is moved along the continuous production line. The second moving platform (140) is supported by a mandrel (137) that holds the workpiece (135). The first mobile platform (120) and the third mobile platform (180) are connected to the second mobile platform (140) to form a connection system (150), wherein the first mobile platform (120) and the third mobile platform (180) both support an automated fiber placement machine (110). Move the connecting system (150) along the continuous production line. While the coupling system (150) moves along the continuous production line, the automated fiber placement machine (110) on the first moving platform (120) and the third moving platform (180) deposits the composite material (139) onto the workpiece (135). as well as The first mobile platform (120) is disconnected from the coupling system, wherein the third mobile platform (180) continues to deposit the composite material (139) on the workpiece (135) after the first mobile platform (120) is disconnected.

2. A method (100) for depositing composite material onto a tool (130) using an automated machine (110), the method (100) comprising: The second moving platform (140) is moved along the production line, and the second moving platform (140) supports the tool (130). The first mobile platform (120) and the third mobile platform (180) are connected to the second mobile platform (140) to form a connection system (150), wherein the first mobile platform (120) and the third mobile platform (180) both support the automated machine (110) and; The automated machine (110) is indexed relative to the tool (130); and As the coupling system (150) moves along the production line (160), the automated machine (110) on the first moving platform (120) and the third moving platform (180) deposits the composite material (139) onto the tool (130). The first mobile platform (120) is disconnected from the connection system, wherein the third mobile platform (180) continues to deposit the composite material (139) on the tool (130) after the first mobile platform (120) is disconnected.

3. The method (100) according to claim 2, wherein, The second mobile platform (140) moves continuously along the production line (160).

4. The method (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The second mobile platform (140) moves along the production line (160) in a pulse manner.

5. The method according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising advancing the second mobile platform (140) to a predetermined position (169) on the production line (160) and returning the first mobile platform (120) to a starting position (165) on the production line (160).

6. The method (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The automated machine (110) is an automated fiber placement machine.

7. The method (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The connection and the division are performed simultaneously.

8. A manufacturing system (200), comprising: Production line (160); A first automated machine is located on a first mobile platform (120) and configured to perform at least one manufacturing operation (210). The second automated machine is located on the third mobile platform (180) and is configured to perform at least one manufacturing operation (210). The workpiece (135) is located on the second moving platform (140); as well as The connecting feature (170) is configured to connect the first mobile platform (120) and the third mobile platform (180) to the second mobile platform (140) to form a connecting system (150). The first mobile platform (120), the third mobile platform (180), and the second mobile platform (140) are configured to travel as the coupling system (150) along the production line (160) when the automated machine (110) performs the at least one manufacturing operation (210). The third mobile platform (180) continues to perform the at least one manufacturing operation (210) after the first mobile platform (120) is disconnected from the connection system (150).

9. The manufacturing system (200) according to claim 8 further includes an indexing feature (175) configured to index the automated machine (110) relative to the workpiece (135).

10. The manufacturing system (200) according to claim 9, wherein, The indexing feature (175) and the connecting feature (170) are the same.

11. A method (300) for laminating a composite component onto a tool (130) located on a second mobile platform (140) using an automated machine (110) located on a first mobile platform (120) and a third mobile platform (180), the method comprising: Move the first mobile platform (120) and the third mobile platform (180) to the predetermined position (169). The first mobile platform (120) and the third mobile platform (180) are connected to the second mobile platform (140) to form a connection system (150). The coupling system (150) is driven along the continuous moving production line (160) by a motion controller (195). As the coupling system (150) moves along the continuous moving production line (160), composite material (139) is deposited from the automated machine (110) on the first moving platform (120) and the third moving platform (180) onto the tool (130). The first mobile platform (120) is disconnected from the connection system, wherein the third mobile platform (180) continues to deposit the composite material (139) on the tool (130) after the first mobile platform (120) is disconnected. Upon completion of the deposition, the connection system (150) is disconnected (310). The first mobile platform (120) is returned to its starting position (165) along the continuous moving production line (160); and The second moving platform (140) is moved forward to the autoclave (260).

12. The method (300) according to claim 11, wherein, The connection system (150) is driven by a motion controller (195) located on the first mobile platform (120).

13. The method (300) according to claim 11 or 12 further includes compaction and consolidation.

14. An apparatus (320) for laminating composite components on a production line (160), the apparatus (320) comprising: An automated machine (110) is mounted on a first mobile platform (120) and a third mobile platform (180), wherein the first mobile platform (120) and the third mobile platform (180) are guided along the production line (160); A tool (130) is mounted on a second mobile platform (140), which is guided along the production line (160); The connecting feature (170) is configured to connect the first mobile platform (120) and the third mobile platform (180) to the second mobile platform (140), such that the first mobile platform (120), the third mobile platform (180) and the second mobile platform (140) travel along the production line (160) as a connecting system (150), wherein, as the connecting system (150) moves along the production line (160), the automated machine (110) on the first mobile platform (120) and the third mobile platform (180) deposits the composite material (139) onto the tool (130). Motion controller (195), connected to the second mobile platform (140); and The controller (190) is configured to detect the position of the first mobile platform (120), the position of the second mobile platform (140), and the state of the automated machine (110). The controller (190) is configured to control the state of the connecting feature (170), control the travel parameters of the first mobile platform (120), and control the travel parameters of the second mobile platform (140). The first mobile platform (120), the third mobile platform (180), and the second mobile platform (140) are configured to move independently of each other when in an unconnected state. The third mobile platform (180) continues to deposit the composite material (139) on the tool (130) after the first mobile platform (120) is disconnected from the connection system.

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