Device for stabilizing a localised dome reinforcement

Abstract

An assembly (20) is configured for use in a system for forming a filament winding (26) on a container (30), the container having a periphery and a length. The assembly (20) includes an annular belt (24) and a first roller (22) and a second roller (22). The annular belt (24) is configured to partially wrap around the periphery of the container (30) to contact the filament winding (26) disposed on the outer surface of the container (30) and apply pressure to the filament winding (26). The annular belt (24) moves around the first roller (22) and the second roller (22). A space (44) is provided between the first roller (22) and the second roller (22) to allow the filament winding eye (32) of the system to move along the length of the container (30) in a reciprocating motion. A method for forming a filament winding (26) on a container (30) using a machine (40) is also described.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Pressure vessels are typically used to contain a variety of pressurized fluids, such as hydrogen, oxygen, natural gas, nitrogen, propane, methane, and other fuels. For example, pressure vessels can generally be of any size or configuration, heavy or light, single-use (e.g., disposable), reusable, resistant to high pressures (e.g., greater than 50 psi (344.7 kPa)), resistant to low pressures (e.g., less than 50 psi (344.7 kPa)), or used for storing fluids at high or low temperatures.

[0002] Pressure vessels can be damaged during transport and use due to factors such as collisions with other objects or drops. The vessel's ability to hold fluid at the desired pressure can be impaired by such damage. One existing method of mitigating damage is to attach a protective cap to one end of the vessel. However, caps that are simply attached to the vessel may detach during use. Other methods include increasing the shell thickness, applying an elastomeric shell coating, and adding a protective layer or end cap that is completely covered or encapsulated by additional shell material. For more details, see commonly owned U.S. Patent 5,476,189 entitled "Pressure Vessel with Damage Mitigating System" and commonly owned U.S. Patent 10,627,049 entitled "Wound-In End Protection Component for Pressure Vessel". Because additional coatings or layers typically completely cover the damage mitigation component or the entire vessel, some methods have the disadvantage of significantly increasing material usage and manufacturing complexity. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect, a component is configured for use in a system for forming a filament winding on a container having a periphery and a length. The component includes an annular belt and a first roller and a second roller. The annular belt is configured to partially wrap around the periphery of the container to contact the filament winding disposed on an outer surface of the container and apply pressure to the filament winding. The annular belt moves around the first roller and the second roller. A space is provided between the first roller and the second roller to allow the filament winding eye of the system to move along the length of the container in a reciprocating motion.

[0004] In another aspect, a method for forming a filament winding on a container using a machine is described, the container having a perimeter and a length. The method includes rotating the container on a rotation axis; stacking the filament winding on the outer surface of the container while moving the filament winding eye in a reciprocating motion along the length of the container; and partially wrapping an annular belt assembly around the perimeter of the container to contact the filament winding and apply pressure to it. Spaces are provided in the assembly at the outer surface of the container to allow the filament winding eye to pass through.

[0005] The various combinations of this disclosure can also be characterized by the following list of items:

[0006] 1. A component configured for use in a system for forming a filament winding on a container having a periphery and a length, the component comprising:

[0007] An annular belt, configured to partially wrap around the periphery of the container to contact a filament winding disposed on the outer surface of the container and apply pressure to the filament winding; and

[0008] A first roller and a second roller, the annular belt moving around the first roller and the second roller;

[0009] A space is provided between the first roller and the second roller to allow the filament winding eye of the system to move along the length of the container in a reciprocating motion.

[0010] 2. The component according to item 1 includes a third roller and a fourth roller, and the annular belt moves around the third roller and the fourth roller.

[0011] 3. The components according to Project 2, wherein:

[0012] The first roller and the third roller are attached to a first arm, which is configured to connect to the frame of the system; and

[0013] The second roller and the fourth roller are attached to the second arm, which is configured to be connected to the frame.

[0014] 4. The component according to item 3, wherein the first arm includes a channel and the third roller is configured to roll along the channel.

[0015] 5. The components described in item 1 or 2, including:

[0016] A first arm, attached to the first roller, and configured to connect to the frame of the system; and

[0017] The second arm is attached to the second roller and is configured to connect to the frame.

[0018] 6. The component according to any one of items 3 to 5, comprising:

[0019] A first extendable actuator is disposed between the first arm and the frame; and

[0020] A second extendable actuator is disposed between the second arm and the frame.

[0021] 7. The components according to Project 6, wherein:

[0022] The first extendable actuator is pivotally attached to the first arm;

[0023] The second extendable actuator is pivotally attached to the second arm.

[0024] 8. The component according to item 6 or 7, wherein:

[0025] The first extendable actuator is pivotally attached to the frame;

[0026] The second extendable actuator is pivotally attached to the frame.

[0027] 9. The component according to any one of items 3 to 8, wherein the first arm and the second arm are movable between two configurations:

[0028] In a first configuration, the first roller and the second roller position the annular belt in contact with the outer surface of the container and the filament winding disposed on the outer surface of the container; and

[0029] In the second configuration, the first roller and the second roller remove the annular belt from contact with the outer surface of the container and the filament winding disposed on the outer surface of the container.

[0030] 10. The component according to item 9, wherein, in the first configuration, the distance between the first arm and the second arm near the first roller and the second roller is less than the distance between the first arm and the second arm near the frame.

[0031] 11. The component according to item 9 or 10, wherein, in the second configuration, the first arm and the second arm are collinearly aligned.

[0032] 12. A method for forming a filament winding on a container using a machine, the container having a perimeter and a length, the method comprising:

[0033] The container is rotated on the rotation axis;

[0034] While moving the filament winding eye along the length of the container in a reciprocating motion, the filament winding is piled up on the outer surface of the container; and

[0035] The annular belt assembly is partially wrapped around the periphery of the container to contact the filament winding and apply pressure to the filament winding;

[0036] The component at the outer surface of the container has a space provided to allow the filament winding eye to pass through.

[0037] 13. The method of claim 12, comprising extending a belt in the annular belt assembly around the first roller and the second roller, the belt moving around the first roller and the second roller.

[0038] 14. The method of claim 13, wherein partially wrapping the annular belt assembly around the periphery of the container comprises:

[0039] The first arm attached to the first roller extends from the frame of the machine; and

[0040] The second arm, which is attached to the second roller, extends out from the frame of the machine.

[0041] 15. The method according to item 14, comprising retracting the first arm and the second arm to remove the belt from contact with the outer surface of the container and the filament winding disposed on the outer surface of the container.

[0042] 16. The method of claim 15, wherein retracting the first arm comprises extending a cylinder pivotally connected to a frame of the first arm and the machine.

[0043] 17. The method according to any one of items 14 to 16, comprising changing the effective length of the belt around the periphery of the container in contact with the filament winding between the first roller and the second roller.

[0044] 18. The method of claim 17, comprising extending the belt around the third roller and the fourth roller, the belt moving around the third roller and the fourth roller.

[0045] 19. The method of item 18, wherein changing the effective length of the belt between the first roller and the second roller comprises moving the third roller along the first arm.

[0046] 20. The method according to item 18 or 19, wherein changing the effective length of the belt between the first roller and the second roller comprises moving the first arm.

[0047] The present invention is provided to introduce concepts in a simplified form, which will be further described in the detailed description below. The present invention is not intended to identify key or essential features of the disclosed or claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to describe every disclosed embodiment or implementation of the disclosed or claimed subject matter. Specifically, features disclosed herein with respect to one embodiment may be equally applicable to another embodiment. Furthermore, the present invention is not intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Many other novel advantages, features, and relationships will become apparent as this description proceeds. The following drawings and description illustrate embodiments in more detail by way of example. Attached Figure Description

[0048] The disclosed subject matter will now be further explained with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar structural or system elements are indicated by similar reference numerals in various views. Unless otherwise stated, all descriptions apply to similar and analogous structures in various embodiments.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of components of a pressure vessel and an exemplary device for stabilizing a localized dome reinforcement on the pressure vessel. The winding eye of the filament winding machine is in the left-hand position.

[0050] Figure 2 From Figure 1 The right end of the cut Figure 1 End view of the component.

[0051] Figure 3 It is similar to Figure 1 The perspective view of the components, but the wrapped eye is in the middle position.

[0052] Figure 4 It is similar to Figure 1 The perspective view of the component, but the wrapped eye is on the right side.

[0053] Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the dome of a pressure vessel with an open pattern of locally domed reinforcing filament strips.

[0054] Figure 6 It is a perspective view of the dome of a pressure vessel with a closed pattern of locally dome-shaped reinforcing filament strips forming a dome cap.

[0055] Figure 7 It is a perspective view of a filament winding machine suitable for use with the described stabilizing device.

[0056] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A magnified view of the central section.

[0057] Figure 9 Similar to Figure 8 Furthermore, an exemplary embodiment of the described stabilizing device with a belt and roller assembly extending around the pressure vessel is shown.

[0058] Figure 10 From Figure 9 The left-hand end front view shows the pressure vessel and the extension device.

[0059] Figure 11 From Figure 9 The right-hand side cut-off front view shows the extension device in the case of a filament winding machine.

[0060] Figure 12 Similar to Figure 9 However, an exemplary stabilizing device is shown that retracts the belt and roller assembly from the pressure vessel.

[0061] Figure 13 From Figure 12 The left-hand side view of the end shows the pressure vessel and the retraction device.

[0062] Figure 14 From Figure 12 The right-hand side cut-off front view shows the retraction device in the case of a filament winding machine.

[0063] Figure 15 It has support such as Figure 9 Additional frame structure of the stabilizing device in Figure 7 A top view of a filament winding machine.

[0064] Figure 16A From Figure 9 The left-hand truncated end view shows a small pressure vessel and an extension device.

[0065] Figure 16B Similar to Figure 16A However, it shows a large pressure vessel and a device with an extension cylinder to position the support arm together close to the extension cylinder.

[0066] Figure 17A From Figure 9The left-hand truncated front view shows a small pressure vessel with an extension device having rollers that can move along a support arm channel.

[0067] Figure 17B Similar to Figure 17A However, it shows rollers in different positions in the channel and has a large pressure vessel.

[0068] Figure 18A From Figure 9 The left-hand truncated end front view shows a small pressure vessel with an extension device, in which two-piece support arms extend and retract separately via position actuators.

[0069] Figure 18B Similar to Figure 18A However, the two-piece support arms extend and retract together through the contraction of the position actuator to accommodate large pressure vessels.

[0070] Figure 19A From Figure 9 The left-hand truncated front view of the end shows a small pressure vessel with an extension device, wherein an additional roller is attached to the actuator in the retracted position.

[0071] Figure 19B Similar to Figure 19A However, it shows a position actuator in an extended configuration to accommodate a large pressure vessel.

[0072] While the foregoing figures illustrate one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, other embodiments are also contemplated as described in this disclosure. In all instances, the disclosed subject matter is presented in an illustrative rather than limiting manner. It should be understood that many other modifications and embodiments falling within the scope of the principles of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0073] The accompanying drawings may not be drawn to scale. In particular, for clarity, some features may be enlarged relative to others. Furthermore, in the use of terms such as above, below, on top, under, top, bottom, side, right, left, vertical, and horizontal, it should be understood that these terms are used merely for ease of understanding of the description. It is conceivable that the structure may be oriented in other ways.

[0074] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments and is not intended to be limiting. Unless otherwise stated, serial numbers (e.g., first, second, third, etc.) are used to distinguish or identify different elements or steps within a group of elements or steps and do not provide a sequence or numerical limitation on the elements or steps of an embodiment. For example, the elements or steps “first,” “second,” and “third” need not appear in that order, and embodiments are not necessarily limited to three elements or steps. Unless otherwise stated, any labels such as “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “up,” “down,” “forward,” “reverse,” “clockwise,” “counterclockwise,” “upward,” “downward,” or other similar terms (such as “upper,” “lower,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “proximal,” “farthest,” “middle,” etc.) are used for convenience and do not imply, for example, any particular fixed position, orientation, or direction. Rather, these labels are used to reflect, for example, relative position, orientation, or direction. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” also include the plural forms. Detailed Implementation

[0075] This disclosure recognizes the desire to protect pressure vessels from damage in a reliable and cost-effective manner. Protecting the ends of pressure vessels is particularly important because they are often most vulnerable to damage due to their location and typically hemispherical shape. In an exemplary embodiment, the dome cap is formed from resin-impregnated composite filaments that wrap around the end of the vessel. The dome cap can be attached to the vessel during manufacturing or can be retrofitted to an existing pressure vessel later. Compared to some existing protection systems where the entire vessel is covered with a layer of composite material, the disclosed concept uses fewer filaments and less resin. Furthermore, forming the end cap by curing the wound filaments is more robust than bonding the protective cap to the end of the vessel.

[0076] Figure 1 An elongated pressure vessel 30 is shown, such as the pressure vessel disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,476,189 entitled "Pressure Vessel with Damage Mitigating System". This pressure vessel 30 is typically used to store pressurized fluids. The vessel 30 has a generally cylindrical body portion 70 with a rounded apex 28. When the vessel 30 is fully formed, bosses are typically provided at one or both ends of the vessel 30 to provide ports for communication with the interior of the vessel 30. The vessel 30 may be formed with an impermeable liner for the internal fluid, covered by an outer composite material shell. The vessel end 28 typically has a hemispherical or dome shape.

[0077] Suitable pressure vessel shell materials include metals, such as steel; or composite materials, such as laminates formed from layers of wound glass fiber filaments or other synthetic filaments bonded together by a heat-setting resin or thermoplastic resin. Composite material construction of vessels offers numerous advantages, such as light weight, corrosion resistance, fatigue resistance, and prevention of sudden failure. These properties are at least in part attributed to the high specific strength of the reinforcing fibers or filaments, which are typically oriented in the dominant direction of the composite pressure vessel's construction. Composite shells address structural load-bearing problems on ships.

[0078] Gaskets or bladders are typically disposed within the shell of a composite pressure vessel to act as a fluid permeation barrier, thereby sealing the vessel. Such gaskets are typically formed of a non-metallic, elastic material (e.g., a polymer) and prevent internal fluids from contacting the composite material. Details relating to the formation of the exemplary pressure vessel 30 are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,838,971, entitled “Filament Winding Process and Apparatus.”

[0079] like Figure 1-4 As shown, an exemplary device 20 for stabilizing a partial dome reinforcement of a pressure vessel includes rollers 22 and a belt 24. Device 20 can be used to clamp the filamentous resin strip 26 during application and press the filamentous resin strip against the outer surface of the dome 28 of the pressure vessel 30. In an exemplary method of using device 20, the winding eye 32 of the winding machine 40 (as shown) Figure 7 and Figure 15 As shown, resin-impregnated fine filament strips 26 are laid layer by layer to form a dome cap 34 for localized dome reinforcement, such as... Figure 6 As shown. The filament winding may comprise a composite material made of fibers or filaments contained in a resin, such as carbon, graphite, or aramid. In this context, "composite material" refers, for example, a fiber-reinforced resin matrix material used to form the filament winding laminate structure.

[0080] like Figure 1 As shown, the fine filament strip 26 has been laid on the rounded top 28 through the winding eyelet 32. Figure 2 As shown, when the wrapped eye 32 moves to the left and right (as... Figure 1 , 3 As shown in Figure 4), the pressure vessel 30 rotates along direction 36 on a rotation axis 39 attached to the boss 38 (e.g., in...). Figure 9 and 12 (as marked in the text). Figure 2On the left side, the top roller 22 applies pressure to a portion of the strip 26 to prevent the strip from sliding toward the smaller diameter portion of the rounded tip 28 near the boss 38. Figure 2 On the right side, band 24 applies pressure to a portion of strip 26 to similarly prevent the strip from slipping toward the smaller diameter rounded tip. Although the specification refers to filament strips for ease of illustration and description, it is conceivable that filament windings of any structure can be used, including monofilament windings.

[0081] like Figure 1-4 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment, the belt 24 is configured as an annular belt surrounding two rollers 22. In an exemplary embodiment, the roller and belt assembly has two ends 42 with a gap space 44 between the two ends. In some configurations, the compression belt 24 is configured to tensionally hold the annular belt surrounding the rollers 22 and 60 (e.g., Figure 9-14 (As shown in the illustration). In an exemplary embodiment, the compression belt 24 has a textured surface facing the pressure vessel 30 to clamp and press against the pressure vessel 30 and / or the surface of the filament strip 26 in contact with the compression belt 24. For example, this surface texture can be provided by integrally forming clamping elements on the belt or by providing additional structures (e.g., surface studs).

[0082] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the winding eye 32 moves left and right through the gap space 44 in a reciprocating motion. Simultaneously, the pressure vessel 30 rotates along the axis 39 (e.g., at...). Figure 9 and 12 Rotate along direction 36 (as marked in the text) to form an open, overlapping serpentine pattern of strips 26, as shown in the image. Figure 5 As shown. In the exemplary method, the winding continues, such that the strip 26 layers on itself to form a dome-shaped cap 34 of a closed pattern, as... Figure 6 As shown. Although a specific rotation direction 36 is depicted in the diagram, it should be understood that the opposite rotation direction can also be used.

[0083] By bracket 52 ( Figure 9 The reciprocating left-right movement of the winding eye 32 is repeated, thus circulating through as... Figure 1-4 The positions shown are used to form as follows: Figure 5 The pattern of the dome-shaped reinforcing strips is shown. Continuing to deposit the filament material in this manner eventually produces a closed pattern of filament strips 26 forming the dome-shaped cap 34, as shown. Figure 6 As shown. Figure 4 As shown, for example, the compression belt 24 simultaneously clamps the filament strip 26 at multiple locations on the pressure vessel 30.

[0084] The dome cap 34 can be applied to the pressure vessel 30 at any stage of formation. For example, the dome cap 34 can be applied to the liner before the remainder of the composite shell is applied to the polymer liner of the pressure vessel. In other examples, the dome cap 34 can be applied to a complete pressure vessel that already includes a composite shell. Furthermore, the dome cap 34 can be applied to many different materials and constructions of metal pressure vessels and substantially cylindrical vessels.

[0085] Compared to covering the entire pressure vessel with an additional layer of composite filaments, providing a localized reinforcement at the curved dome 28 of the pressure vessel offers savings in cost and manufacturing time. The disclosed apparatus and method for reinforcing the pressure vessel 30 are suitable for forming a dome cap 34 formed of filament strips 26 comprising a resin with a relatively long service life, which can be cleaned from the compression belt 24. Suitable resins are commercially available from Huntsman Corporation, Woodland, Texas, such as Araldite epoxy resin LY1135.

[0086] like Figure 6 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment, the dome cap 34 completely covers the dome apex 28 of the pressure vessel 30 and extends to the generally cylindrical portion 70 of the pressure vessel 30 disposed between the two dome apex 28. The dome cap 34 is securely bonded to the pressure vessel 30 because the filament strips 26 of the dome cap 34 are pressed onto the pressure vessel 30 (achieved by a combination of rollers 22 and belt 24) and cured onto the pressure vessel 30 by pressure. Furthermore, additional filament-wound composite resin strands can be provided on the dome cap 34 and the pressure vessel 30 to... Figure 6 Another composite material shell is formed on the container shown.

[0087] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a winding machine 40 suitable for use with the described apparatus 20. Typically, the winding machine 40 includes a frame 46 configured to support the pressure vessel 30 on a rotating shaft 39. The winding machine 40 also includes a controller 48 operably connected to a user interface 50 for receiving commands regarding the reciprocating linear motion of the support 52 supporting the winding eye 32, the rotation of the rotating shaft 39, and the layup speed and volume of the resin-impregnated filament material to form a filament strip 26 on the rounded tip 28 of the pressure vessel 30. Therefore, different patterns and structural characteristics of the filament strip 26 can be formed according to commands as designed and desired. Figure 11 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the winding machine 40 is modified to have an additional component with a frame 46 to support the components of the device 20.

[0088] The disclosed stabilizing device 20 uses a belt 24 that moves with the rotation of the pressure vessel 30 to apply pressure to the vessel surface and allows for localized reciprocating motion along the path of the winding eyelet 32 ​​to deposit fibers (e.g., in the form of filament strips 26) while preventing fibers from slipping off the vessel surface. This stabilizing device can take many different forms by using different numbers of rollers, support devices, and motion mechanisms as shown. Figures 9-19B An exemplary embodiment of a stabilizing device 20 used with a winding machine 40 is shown, the stabilizing device further comprising an arm 54 connected at a pivot joint 58 to a corresponding position actuator 56. Figure 9 In the exemplary configuration shown, the inner layer of the annular belt 24 contacts the outer surface of the pressure vessel 30 and wraps around the roller 22 near the gap space 44. The outer layer of the annular belt 24 is held against the support arm 54 by the roller 60.

[0089] With this arrangement, a portion of the annular belt 24 extends around the diameter of the pressure vessel 30, while a larger portion extends around the roller 22 and abuts against and between the support arms 54. Utilizing this structure of the stabilizing device 20, the effective length of the belt 24 surrounding and in contact with the pressure vessel 30 can be adjusted in various ways. This adjustment can be used to accommodate variations in the pressure vessel diameter because the thickness of the filament strip 26 is formed beneath the inner layer of the belt 24. Additionally or alternatively, the effective length of the belt 24 surrounding and in contact with the pressure vessel 30 can be adjusted to accommodate different diameters of the pressure vessel positioned in the winding machine 40 to receive dome-shaped reinforcing filaments thereon. Figure 16A-19B Four different configurations are shown in which device 20 can provide effective belt length adjustability around different dimensions of pressure vessel 30. It should be understood that the structures of all these embodiments are described with reference to configurations in which device 20 extends over pressure vessel 30. While each of these configurations is not specifically illustrated, as... Figure 12-14 As shown, these devices can also be retracted from the pressure vessel 30.

[0090] exist Figure 16A and Figure 16B The first adjustment arrangement is shown in the figure, wherein reference Figure 16A The configuration for a pressure vessel 30 with a smaller diameter is described, and references are made. Figure 16B The structure shown illustrates the configuration for a pressure vessel with a larger diameter. Figure 16A and Figure 10 Very similar, and Figure 10 The description applies accordingly. Figure 16BThe position actuator 56 is shown in the extended position to shorten the length of the belt 24 between the rollers 60. Therefore, the increased length of the belt 24 can be wrapped around the larger pressure vessel 30.

[0091] exist Figure 17A and Figure 17B The second adjustment arrangement is shown in the figure, wherein reference Figure 17A A configuration for a pressure vessel 30 with a smaller diameter is described, and references are made. Figure 17B The structure shown illustrates the configuration for a pressure vessel with a larger diameter. Figure 17A The arrangement of the roller 60's shaft 74 slidably received within the slot 72 of the channel 62 is shown. Figure 17B As shown, in order to accommodate a larger diameter pressure vessel 30, the roller 60 slides to another point within the channel 62 to increase the effective length of the belt 24 wrapped around the pressure vessel 30. Although not specifically shown, this roller movement can be supported and controlled by an additional set of hydraulic and / or pneumatic cylinders.

[0092] exist Figure 18A and Figure 18B The third adjustment arrangement is shown in the figure, wherein the reference is Figure 18A A configuration for a pressure vessel 30 with a smaller diameter is described, and references are made. Figure 18B The structure shown illustrates the configuration for a pressure vessel 30 with a larger diameter. Figure 18A and Figure 18B In the middle, the support arm 54 is configured as two parts, arm portions 54a and 54b, which slide and extend against each other. Figure 18A An apparatus 20 with a small pressure vessel 30 is shown. Because the relatively short length of the belt 24 surrounds the pressure vessel 30, the actuator 76 extends to increase the distance between the rollers 24 and 60. The longer effective length of the support arm 54 is achieved by sliding the arm portion 54b along the arm portion 54a. In the illustrated embodiment, the ends of each actuator 76 are attached to the support arm portions 54a and 54b, respectively. Figure 18B In the middle, actuator 56 is extended to accommodate the shorter arm 54.

[0093] exist Figure 19A and Figure 19B The fourth adjustment arrangement is shown in the figure, wherein the reference is Figure 19A A configuration for a pressure vessel 30 with a smaller diameter is described, and references are made. Figure 19B The structure shown illustrates the configuration of the pressure vessel 30 with a larger diameter. Figure 19A and Figure 19B The arrangement of additional rollers 78 on the portion of the belt 24 spanning between rollers 60 is shown. Figure 19AAs shown, the effective length of the belt 24 between the rollers 60 is increased by the retraction actuator 80. Figure 19B As shown, actuator 80 extends to reduce the length of belt 24 between rollers 60 and increase the effective length of belt 24 around large pressure vessel 30.

[0094] Figures 12-14 The device 20 is shown in a retracted configuration, wherein the roller 22 is lifted away from the pressure vessel 30, as shown in Figure 2 The direction 64 shown indicates lifting away from the pressure vessel 30. Although not shown in some figures to avoid obscuring the view of the described components, the end 66 of each position actuator 56 is pivotally attached to the frame 46 or other support of the modified winding machine 40. In an exemplary embodiment, the position actuator 56 is an extendable cylinder, which can be actuated by means, for example, including devices using electronic equipment or hydraulic or pneumatic fluids. Figures 12-14 As shown, when the positioning actuator 56 extends, the roller 22 and belt 24 retract away from the pressure vessel 30. In an exemplary embodiment, this change in configuration is caused by the pivoting of the end 66 of the positioning actuator 56 at the connection between the end 66 and the frame 46, and the pivoting of the support arm 54 at the opposite pivot joint 58 of the positioning actuator 56. Figures 12-14 The retracted position of the stabilizing device 20 shown allows for the insertion, removal, and other positional adjustments of the pressure vessel 30 within the winding machine 40.

[0095] Figures 9-11 The extended device 20 shown and Figures 12-14 The positional changes between the retracted devices 20 shown can be automatically influenced by software running on the controller 48 and / or manually controlled by user input to the user interface 50. Although not specifically illustrated, any user interface can be used, including keyboards, monitors, touchscreens, knobs, buttons, or joysticks.

[0096] like Figures 9-11 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment of device 20, when roller 22 is extended such that the inner layer of the annular belt 24 contacts a portion of the outer periphery of pressure vessel 30, the arms 54 are tilted such that the distance between a pair of arms 54 at the point of contact with roller 22 is less than the distance between a pair of arms 54 near roller 60 (which are not in contact with pressure vessel 30). Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, as... Figure 11 As shown, the distance between the pair of arms 54 near the contact roller 22 is smaller than the distance between the pair of arms 54 near the frame 46.

[0097] In this way, the gap space 44 is maintained at a relatively small distance, sufficient to allow the winding eye 32 to move linearly left and right via the movement of the support 52. This configuration brings the inner layer of the annular belt 24 into contact with most of the periphery of the pressure vessel 30. Therefore, pressure is maintained on the filament strip 26 laid on the pressure vessel surface by means of the roller 22 and the belt 24 to compress the resin-impregnated filaments to the pressure vessel surface and to promote bonding between the filament strip 26 and the underlying pressure vessel surface and the underlying filament strip. By configuring the compression belt 24 as an annular belt around the roller 22 (and in some embodiments, also a roller 60), the belt surface moves together with the pressure vessel 30 around the rollers 22, 60 as the pressure vessel 30 rotates on the rotation axis 38. Therefore, there is no relative movement at the contact points of the belt 24 on the underlying pressure vessel surface or on the filament strip 26. Therefore, uniform compression is applied to the pressure vessel 30 and the newly stacked filament strip 26, without any slippage between the compression belt 24 and the underlying filament strip 26 or the surface of the pressure vessel 30.

[0098] Slippage between the belt 24 and the liner or composite shell of the underlying container 30 would cause displacement of the composite material of the filament strip 26 and could compromise the strength of the material. Therefore, the belt 24 is held taut to maintain a relatively high level of contact pressure with the liner or composite shell of the underlying container 30. This higher contact pressure also serves to prevent the ends of the filament strip 26 from being pulled out from under the belt 24 when the winding strip 26 is pulled open under tension. The effective length of the belt 24 in contact with the container 30 and the pressure applied to the belt 24 are selected by how the device 20 is positioned around the container 30. In one embodiment, all rollers 22, 60 are free-rotating (not driven); rotating the container 30 provides the driving rotational force to the system. In an alternative embodiment, the rollers 22 may be driven and rotated at slightly different rates to generate additional tension in the belt 24 in the area in contact with the liner or composite shell of the underlying container 30.

[0099] The consistent pressure applied by the belt 24 and rollers 22, with very few moving parts, provides simplicity and reliability in manufacturing. As the winding eye 32 of the winding machine 40 moves left and right, the stabilizing device 20 remains in this consistent extended position, while the pressure vessel 30 simultaneously rotates on the rotating shaft 38 in the direction of rotation 36 to form... Figure 5 The dome-reinforced pattern shown ultimately produces the closed pattern of the dome cap 34, as... Figure 6 As shown. Figures 9-14As shown, roller 22 and belt 24 are movable to a position abutting against pressure vessel 30, and movable out of the position abutting against pressure vessel 30. After the formation of dome cap 34 is completed, stabilizing device 20 can be removed from pressure vessel 30, for example by retracting roller 22 and attached belt 24 in direction 64 (e.g. Figure 2 (As shown).

[0100] In such Figures 12-14 In the exemplary retracted configuration shown, the support arms 54 are linearly aligned with each other in a substantially vertical configuration. This retraction moves the attached rollers 22 and belt 24 away from the surface of the pressure vessel 30. Therefore, the position of the pressure vessel 30 relative to the winding machine 40 can be adjusted, including removing the pressure vessel 30 from the winding machine 40. In an exemplary method of reinforcing the rounded tip 28 of the pressure vessel 30, after forming a dome cap 34, the pressure vessel 30 is rotated such that another rounded tip 28 of the pressure vessel 30 is positioned thereon to receive the filament strip 26 stacked by the winding eye 32. Thus, the exemplary completed pressure vessel 30 will have a dome cap 34 at each of the two opposite ends 28 of the pressure vessel 30. In another method, the winding eye support 52 and the device 20 are moved to a second end 28 of the pressure vessel 30 so that the vessel does not need to be repositioned within the machine 40. Although Figures 12-14 The illustration shows... Figures 16A-16B The arrangement of adjustments, but Figures 17A-17B , Figures 18A-18B or Figures 19A-19B The adjustment arrangement can also be configured such that, in the retracted configuration, the support arms 54 are linearly aligned with each other in the substantially vertical configuration.

[0101] Figure 15 This is a top view of an exemplary winding machine 40, which has been modified to support a stabilizing device 20, shown as being in... Figures 9-11 The extended position is shown. For example, as shown... Figure 1-5 As shown, the winding eye 32 on the support 52 (in direction 68) moves left and right to deposit the filament strip 26 on the pressure vessel 30 in a low-angle, spiral winding pattern. In one embodiment, the stabilizing device 20 may be attached to another support (e.g., at the pivot end 66), and thus also move in direction 68. Therefore, the position of the compression strip 24 along the length of the pressure vessel 30 can be adjusted according to the size of the pressure vessel 30 and the configuration of the rounded tip 28 of the pressure vessel 30.

[0102] Exemplary, non-limiting embodiments of components and methods are described. For example, an component configured for forming a filament winding 26 on a container 30 having a periphery and a length includes an annular belt 24 and a first roller 22 and a second roller 22. The annular belt 24 is configured to partially wrap around the periphery of the container 30 to contact the filament winding 26 disposed on the outer surface of the container 30 and apply pressure to the filament winding 26. The annular belt 24 moves around the first roller 22 and the second roller 22. A space 44 is provided between the first roller 22 and the second roller 22 to allow a filament winding eye 32 of the system to pass through, the filament winding eye 32 being configured to move in a reciprocating motion 68 along the length of the container 30.

[0103] In an exemplary embodiment, the annular belt 24 moves around the third roller 60 and the fourth roller 60. In an exemplary embodiment, the first roller 22 and the third roller 60 are attached to a first arm 54, which is configured to connect to the system frame 46. Furthermore, the second roller 22 and the fourth roller 60 are attached to a second arm 54, which is configured to connect to the frame 46. In an exemplary embodiment, the first arm 54 includes a channel 62 along which the third roller 60 is configured to roll.

[0104] In an exemplary embodiment, a first arm 54 is attached to a first roller 22 and configured to connect to a frame 46 of the system, and a second arm 54 is attached to a second roller 22 and configured to connect to the frame 46. In an exemplary embodiment, a first extendable actuator 56 is disposed between the first arm 54 and the frame 46, and a second extendable actuator 56 is disposed between the second arm 54 and the frame 46. In an exemplary embodiment, the first extendable actuator 56 is pivotally attached to the first arm 54, and the second extendable actuator 56 is pivotally attached to the second arm 54. In an exemplary embodiment, the first extendable actuator 56 is pivotally attached to the frame 46, and the second extendable actuator 56 is pivotally attached to the frame 46.

[0105] In an exemplary embodiment, the first arm 54 and the second arm 54 are capable of Figures 9-11 and Figure 15 The first configuration shown is Figures 12-14The movement occurs between the two configurations shown. In the first configuration, the first roller 22 and the second roller 22 position the annular belt 24 into contact with the outer surface of the container 30 and the filament winding 26 disposed on the outer surface of the container 30. In the second configuration, the first roller 22 and the second roller 22 remove the annular belt 24 from contact with the outer surface of the container 30 and the filament winding 26 disposed on the outer surface of the container 30. In an exemplary embodiment, in the first configuration, the distance between the first arm 54 and the second arm 54 near the first roller 22 and the second roller 22 is less than the distance between the first arm 54 and the second arm 54 near the frame 46. In an exemplary embodiment, in the second configuration, the first arm 54 and the second arm 54 are collinearly aligned.

[0106] In an exemplary embodiment, a method for forming a filament winding on a container 30 having a periphery and a length is described using a machine 40. In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes rotating the container 30 on a rotation axis 39; moving a filament winding eye 32 along the length of the container 30 via a reciprocating motion 68 while accumulating a filament winding 26 on the outer surface of the container 30; and partially winding annular tape assemblies 22, 24 around the periphery of the container 30 to contact the filament winding 26 and apply pressure to the filament winding 26. In an exemplary embodiment, a space 44 is provided in the assemblies 22, 24 at the outer surface of the container 30 to allow the filament winding eye 32 to pass through.

[0107] In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes extending a belt 24 of an annular belt assembly around a first roller 22 and a second roller 22, wherein the belt 24 moves around the first roller 22 and the second roller 22. In an exemplary embodiment, partially wrapping the annular belt assembly around the periphery of the container 30 includes extending a first arm 54 attached to the first roller 22 from a frame 46 of the machine 40, and extending a second arm 54 attached to the second roller 22 from the frame 46 of the machine 40. In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes retracting the first arm 54 and the second arm 54 to remove the belt 24 from contact with the outer surface of the container 30 and the filament winding 26 disposed on the outer surface of the container 30. In an exemplary embodiment, retracting the first arm 54 includes extending a cylinder 56 pivotally connected to the first arm 54 and the frame 46 of the machine 40.

[0108] In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes changing the effective length of the belt 24 in contact with the filament winding 26 between the first roller 22 and the second roller 22, around the periphery of the container 30. In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes extending the belt 24 around the third roller 60 and the fourth roller 60, wherein the annular belt 24 moves around the third roller 60 and the fourth roller 60. In an exemplary embodiment, changing the effective length of the belt 24 between the first roller 22 and the second roller 22 includes moving the third roller 60 along the first arm 54.

[0109] Although the subject matter of this disclosure has been described with reference to several embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, any feature disclosed with respect to one embodiment may be included in other embodiments, and vice versa.

Claims

1. A component configured for use in a system for forming a filament winding on a container having a periphery and a length, the component comprising: An annular belt, configured to partially wrap around the periphery of the container to contact a filament winding disposed on the outer surface of the container and apply pressure to the filament winding; and A first roller and a second roller, the annular belt moving around the first roller and the second roller; A space is provided between the first roller and the second roller to allow the filament winding eye of the system to move along the length of the container in a reciprocating motion.

2. The component of claim 1, comprising a third roller and a fourth roller, wherein the annular belt moves around the third roller and the fourth roller.

3. The component according to claim 2, wherein: The first roller and the third roller are attached to a first arm, which is configured to connect to the frame of the system; and The second roller and the fourth roller are attached to the second arm, which is configured to be connected to the frame.

4. The component according to claim 3, wherein, The first arm includes a channel, and the third roller is configured to roll along the channel.

5. The component according to claim 1, comprising: The first arm is attached to the first roller and is configured to be connected to the frame of the system; and The second arm is attached to the second roller and is configured to connect to the frame.

6. The component of claim 5, comprising: A first extendable actuator is disposed between the first arm and the frame; and A second extendable actuator is disposed between the second arm and the frame.

7. The component according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The first arm and the second arm are capable of moving between the following two configurations: In a first configuration, the first roller and the second roller place the annular belt into contact with the outer surface of the container and the filament winding disposed on the outer surface of the container; as well as In the second configuration, the first roller and the second roller remove the annular belt from contact with the outer surface of the container and the filament winding disposed on the outer surface of the container.

8. The component according to claim 7, wherein, In the first configuration, the distance between the first arm and the second arm closest to the first roller and the second roller is less than the distance between the first arm and the second arm closest to the frame.

9. The component according to claim 7, wherein, In the second configuration, the first arm and the second arm are aligned collinearly.

10. A method for forming a filament winding on a container using a machine, the container having a perimeter and a length, the method comprising: The container is rotated on the rotation axis; While moving the filament winding eye along the length of the container in a reciprocating motion, the filament winding is piled up on the outer surface of the container; as well as The annular belt assembly is partially wrapped around the periphery of the container to contact the filament winding and apply pressure to the filament winding; The annular belt assembly on the outer surface of the container has a space provided to allow the filament winding eye to pass through.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the annular belt assembly includes a first roller and a second roller, the method comprising extending a belt in the annular belt assembly around the first roller and the second roller, the belt moving around the first roller and the second roller.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, Partially wrapping the annular belt assembly around the periphery of the container includes: The first arm attached to the first roller extends from the frame of the machine; and The second arm, which is attached to the second roller, extends out from the frame of the machine.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising retracting the first arm and the second arm to remove the belt from contact with the outer surface of the container and the filament winding disposed on the outer surface of the container.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein retracting the first arm comprises extending a cylinder pivotally connected to the frame of the first arm and the machine.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, comprising changing the effective length of the belt around the periphery of the container in contact with the filament winding between the first roller and the second roller.

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