A jig and processing method for pre-formed carbon fiber wheels.

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of carbon fiber preforming technology, and discloses a fixture and processing method for air-blown preformed carbon fiber wheel rims. The fixture includes: a lower mold, an upper mold snapped onto the top of the lower mold, a cavity inside the lower mold, a power pump on the outside of the lower mold, a mating groove inside the lower mold, multiple flexible arc-shaped blocks inside the cavity, a flexible column fixedly mounted on the top of each flexible arc-shaped block, and a small airbag fixedly mounted on the top of each flexible column, all positioned within the cavity formed by the upper and lower molds. This invention addresses fixture reliability issues through mechanical interlocking, strict and uniform low-pressure mold locking, and an irreversible safety process of adaptive high-pressure molding. Furthermore, the intelligent following of the mold locking force with internal molding pressure and dynamic matching of internal and external pressures ensure both safety and energy efficiency. Finally, the sensing and feedback of the gridded airbags enable adaptive and uniform pressure application to complex wheel rim cross-sections.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of carbon fiber product preforming technology, specifically to a fixture and processing method for air-blown preformed carbon fiber wheel rims. Background Technology

[0002] Carbon fiber composite wheel rims, with their high strength, lightweight, and excellent fatigue resistance, have become important components in high-performance bicycles, motorcycles, and even automobiles. In the manufacturing process of carbon fiber wheel rims, to ensure their mechanical properties and dimensional accuracy, the industry commonly uses fluid pressure, such as vacuum bags, airbags, or autoclave pressure, to pre-compact and pre-form the carbon fiber preform laid on the mold. Specifically, when it comes to the pre-formed shape of the wheel rim, the most common practice is to lay the carbon fiber preform in a mandrel with a wheel rim cross-sectional shape, and then place an inflatable airbag inside and fill it with compressed gas. The uniform pressure generated by the expansion of the airbag makes the carbon fiber preform fit tightly against the mold cavity. However, there are still some limitations in practical applications.

[0003] For example, during use, for wheel rim structures with complex shapes and varied cross-sections, the fit between the conventional airbag and the carbon fiber preform and the inner wall of the mold may be inconsistent when the airbag is inflated. This is especially true at the spoke connections and grooves of the wheel rim, where insufficient or concentrated pressure transmission can easily occur. This can easily lead to insufficient compaction of the carbon fiber preform in these areas, resulting in wrinkles and affecting the density uniformity of the preform. Consequently, it may reduce the overall quality during subsequent curing. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a fixture and processing method for air-blown pre-formed carbon fiber wheel rims. By utilizing the combined effect of adjusting the angle of the gas and the soft material, wrinkles and insufficient compaction caused by uneven pressure distribution during the pre-forming process of complex cross-section carbon fiber wheel rims are resolved. Furthermore, the locking reliability of the mold is improved, and the reliance on manual experience in operation is reduced.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows:

[0006] In a first aspect, a fixture for pre-forming carbon fiber wheels includes: a lower mold, an upper mold snapped onto the top of the lower mold, a cavity inside the lower mold, a power pump disposed on the outer side of the lower mold, a mating groove inside the lower mold, multiple flexible arc-shaped blocks disposed inside the cavity, a flexible column fixedly mounted on the top of each flexible arc-shaped block, and a small airbag fixedly mounted on the top of each flexible column.

[0007] The pressure equalization section is located inside the cavity formed by the upper and lower molds. It is used to adaptively fit different areas of the complex cross section of the wheel rim by independently expanding and contracting multiple small airbags, thereby achieving uniform pressure control of the carbon fiber preform.

[0008] The pressure equalization part includes a locking component and an adjusting component. The locking component is disposed inside the cavity and is connected to the adjusting component. The adjusting component is disposed above the flexible arc-shaped block.

[0009] The locking part is located on the outside of the lower mold and can cooperate with the upper mold to improve reliability;

[0010] The locking part includes an insert and a clamping member. The insert is disposed between the upper mold and the lower mold. The insert and the clamping member are connected. The clamping member is disposed on the outside of the mating surface between the lower mold and the upper mold.

[0011] The auxiliary connecting part is located on the outside of the lower mold and is used to control the action sequence of the pressure equalization part and the locking part. It drives and coordinates the two in sequence so that the pressure equalization part is molded only after the locking part has completed reliable locking.

[0012] The auxiliary connection unit includes a drive component and a control component. The drive component is located on one side of the power pump and is connected to the control component. The control component is also connected to a dual-way diversion valve.

[0013] Furthermore, the locking component includes:

[0014] The male connector buckle is located on one side of the flexible arc-shaped block;

[0015] The other side of the flexible arc-shaped block is provided with a female connector groove that matches the male connector buckle;

[0016] A deformable sheet is positioned above the flexible column;

[0017] The flexible arc-shaped block has a hollow interior.

[0018] Furthermore, the adjusting member includes:

[0019] The conduit is installed inside the flexible arc-shaped block;

[0020] A fixing screw is positioned above the flexible arc-shaped block and below the small airbag;

[0021] The inner bottom wall of the small airbag is made of rigid material, while the outer side is made of flexible rubber material.

[0022] A gas collection block is positioned below the flexible arc-shaped block;

[0023] The main gas line connector is located at the bottom of the gas collection block;

[0024] The air inlet pipe is located on one side of the main air line connector;

[0025] The exhaust pipe is located at one end of the air inlet pipe.

[0026] Furthermore, the embedding includes:

[0027] A bellows is installed at one end of the discharge pipe;

[0028] The lever is fixedly installed inside the flexible arc-shaped block;

[0029] The lever and bellows work together to form a pressure sensor;

[0030] The torsion support is located on one side of the lever and is connected to the lower support rod located at the bottom.

[0031] Furthermore, the embedding also includes:

[0032] The base plate is located at the bottom end of the lower support rod;

[0033] The flow control valve is located inside the base plate;

[0034] A thin tube is installed on one side of the flow control valve, and the other end is connected to the air inlet pipe;

[0035] Furthermore, the clamping element includes:

[0036] The bronchus is located on one side of the main air line connector;

[0037] A return spring is located on one side of the bronchus, with the other end connected to the inside of the lower mold.

[0038] A wedge-shaped retaining plate is set at one end of the return spring, and its bottom end is connected to the outer edge of the inner side of the lower mold;

[0039] The lower mold ring strip is located on the outer side of the lower mold and has stepped recessed grooves inside, which facilitates friction when the upper and lower molds are closed, preventing slippage over time.

[0040] The base is fixedly installed on the outside of the lower mold and located below the ring edge strip of the lower mold;

[0041] The anti-blocking strip is set inside the stepped recessed groove of the lower mold ring edge strip, which facilitates the re-pressurization during air blowing to form a secondary fixation;

[0042] Furthermore, the driving element includes:

[0043] The motor is located on one side of the power pump;

[0044] A pipe and an air storage tank are provided on one side of the power pump;

[0045] A rotating shaft is located at one end of the motor;

[0046] A dual-flow diverter valve is located at one end of the rotating shaft;

[0047] An energy storage compensation chamber is located below the air inlet pipe;

[0048] The outer side of the energy storage compensation chamber is also equipped with a switch and a detector for real-time detection of pressure and gas.

[0049] The main air pipe is located at the bottom of the energy storage compensation chamber and is connected to the power pump.

[0050] Furthermore, the driving component also includes:

[0051] A connecting pipe is installed at one end of the power pump;

[0052] A sequence valve is installed below the dual-flow diversion valve, which is a key component used to control the sequence of actions.

[0053] The dual-way diversion valve is equipped with a coupling to prevent the motor shaft and the power pump shaft from being slightly misaligned, to prevent jamming and wear, and to play a role in buffering and correcting alignment. It also assists the motor in driving the power pump through the coupling.

[0054] A regulator is installed on the outside of the dual-way diversion valve to receive the pressure of the internal expansion branch of the dual-way diversion valve. After adjusting the pressure, it is delivered to each partition inside multiple flexible arc blocks. At the same time, the pressure sensor located in the middle provides feedback signals to adjust the pressure regulation parameters in real time.

[0055] A locking detector is installed on the outside of the dual-channel diversion valve to detect the locking status of the wedge-shaped clamp and control the switching of the dual-channel diversion valve.

[0056] Furthermore, the control element includes:

[0057] The input pipe is located at one end of the dual-way diversion valve and inside the dispatcher;

[0058] Multiple planetary gears are located on the outside of the input pipe to evenly distribute the input airflow to multiple outputs.

[0059] The sensor strip, located above the dispatcher, is used to sense signals;

[0060] The memory disk is located at the top of the sensor strip.

[0061] A method for manufacturing a pre-formed carbon fiber wheel rim, using a jig for pre-formed carbon fiber wheel rims as described in the claims, includes the following steps:

[0062] The carbon fiber preform is laid in the cavity of the lower mold, and the assembled flexible arc block assembly is covered on it.

[0063] Close the upper and lower molds;

[0064] When the power pump is started, the gas first drives the locking part to move through the auxiliary connecting part, so that the wedge-shaped clamping plate locks the upper and lower molds;

[0065] Once the mold-locking detector confirms that the locking is complete, the auxiliary connection unit switches the air path and delivers gas to the pressure equalization unit, causing each small airbag to expand and apply uniform molding pressure to the carbon fiber preform.

[0066] During the pressurization process, the auxiliary correlation unit dynamically adjusts the pressure of each small airbag through the scheduler based on the real-time pressure feedback of each area to achieve pressure adaptive balance.

[0067] After the pressure holding period is completed, the system is depressurized, the locking part is reset, and the mold is opened to remove the pre-formed wheel rim workpiece.

[0068] The above-described solution of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0069] This invention achieves a strictly uniform low-pressure molding process through mechanical interlocking, followed by an irreversible and safe adaptive high-pressure molding process, thus fundamentally solving the problem of fixture reliability. Furthermore, by ensuring that the molding force is not fixed but intelligently follows the internal molding pressure, dynamic matching of internal and external pressures is achieved, which is both safe and energy-efficient. Moreover, through the sensing and feedback of the grid-like airbags, adaptive and uniform pressure is applied to complex wheel rim cross-sections, greatly improving the quality of the preform. The operation is automated and intelligent, with the entire process highly integrated and started with a single button, reducing the difficulty of operation and reliance on skilled workers. The memory function also improves production efficiency and consistency. Attached Figure Description

[0070] The invention will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0071] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall three-dimensional structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0072] Figure 2 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the combination of male fastener, flexible arc block and small airbag is provided for the embodiments of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 3 An exploded three-dimensional view of the combination of a small airbag, a flexible arc-shaped block, and a male connector buckle is provided for the embodiments of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 4 This is provided by the embodiments of the present invention. Figure 3 Enlarged schematic diagram of a local structure at point A;

[0075] Figure 5This is a side view of the combination of a flexible column, a deformable sheet, a vent tube, and fixing screws provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0076] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the combined structure of the bronchus, return spring, and wedge-shaped clamp provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0077] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the combined structure of the through pipe, gas collection block, and branch pipe provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0078] Figure 8 This is provided by the embodiments of the present invention. Figure 6 Enlarged schematic diagram of the local structure at point B;

[0079] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the combined structure of the wedge-shaped clamping plate, the return spring, and the bronchus provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0080] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the combined structure of the upper mold and the main air passage connector provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0081] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the combined structure of the input pipe, dual-way diversion valve, and rotating shaft provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] In the picture:

[0083] 1. Lower mold; 2. Upper mold; 3. Cavity; 4. Power pump; 5. Connecting groove; 6. Flexible arc block; 7. Small airbag; 8. Male connector; 9. Through pipe; 10. Flexible column; 11. Deformable sheet; 12. Gas collection block; 120. Lower mold ring strip; 13. Main air line connector; 130. Base; 14. Air inlet pipe; 140. Anti-clogging strip; 15. Discharge pipe; 16. Fixing screw; 17. Branch pipe; 18. 19. Return spring; 20. Wedge plate; 21. Bellows; 22. Lever; 23. Torsion support head; 24. Lower support rod; 25. Base plate; 26. Flow control valve; 27. Thin tube; 28. Energy storage compensation chamber; 29. ​​Main air passage pipe; 30. Motor; 31. Rotating shaft; 32. Dual-way diverter valve; 33. Input pipe; 34. Planetary gear; 35. Memory disk; 36. Mold lock detector; 37. Through pipe strip; 38. Sensing strip. Detailed Implementation

[0084] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the invention may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to enable a more thorough understanding of the invention and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0085] like Figures 1 to 11 As shown, a fixture for pre-forming carbon fiber wheel rims includes: a lower mold 1, an upper mold 2 snapped onto the top of the lower mold 1, a cavity 3 inside the lower mold 1, a power pump 4 on the outside of the lower mold 1, a docking groove 5 inside the lower mold 1, a plurality of flexible arc blocks 6 inside the cavity 3, a flexible column 10 fixedly installed on the top of the flexible arc block 6, and a small airbag 7 fixedly installed on the top of the flexible column 10.

[0086] The pressure uniform section is located inside the cavity 3 formed by the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1. Through the independent expansion and contraction of the gridded small airbags 7 distributed on multiple flexible arc blocks 6, it can adaptively fit different areas of the complex cross section of the wheel rim, thereby applying uniform and controllable molding pressure to the carbon fiber preform.

[0087] The pressure equalization section includes a locking component and an adjusting component. The locking component is set inside the cavity 3 and is used to splice and combine multiple flexible arc blocks 6 to fit the inner wall contour of the cavity 3. The locking component is connected to the adjusting component, which is set above the flexible arc blocks 6 and is used to distribute gas to each small airbag 7 and control its pressure.

[0088] The locking part is located on the outside of the lower mold 1 and can cooperate with the upper mold 2. It provides dynamic locking force after mold closing through a pneumatically driven wedge plate 19. This locking force is not fixed, but can be adaptively enhanced by the correlation control system as the internal airbag molding pressure increases, thereby ensuring that the mold is absolutely reliably locked under the highest molding pressure, while avoiding mold fatigue caused by excessive mold locking.

[0089] The locking part includes an insert and a clamping member. The insert is disposed between the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1 and is used to sense the molding pressure and transmit control signals. The insert and the clamping member are connected. The clamping member is disposed on the outside of the mating surface between the lower mold 1 and the upper mold 2 and is used to receive control signals and perform locking actions.

[0090] The auxiliary connection part is located on the outside of the lower mold 1. It is used to coordinate and drive the pressure equalization part and the locking part in sequence. Its core is to control the irreversible action sequence of reliable mold locking first and then molding. After the mold locking detector 36 confirms that all wedge plates 19 are locked, the dual-path diversion valve 32 switches the air path under the control of the sequence valve and directs the gas to the pressure equalization part. This eliminates the risk of starting molding without locking the mold from the hardware level.

[0091] The auxiliary connection unit includes a drive unit and a control unit. The drive unit is located on one side of the power pump 4 and is used to provide gas power. The drive unit is connected to the control unit, which is also connected to a dual-way diversion valve 32. The control unit is used to control the gas flow direction according to the locking state and adjust the gas parameters delivered to the pressure equalization unit and the locking unit.

[0092] Specifically, the function of the power pump 4 is to provide the power for expansion, promoting the expansion or contraction of the small airbag 7; the flexible arc block 6 is placed inside the cavity 3, so that when the carbon fiber material is placed on the flexible arc block 6, the small airbag 7 can provide pressure uniform assistance; the soft column 10 is made of rubber, which facilitates the adjustment of the angle of the deformable sheet 11; the small airbag 7 is individually hexagonal in shape, and there are multiple of them, forming a grid-like airbag structure, distributed around the perimeter. All four sides can contact the U-shaped inner wall of the cavity 3, which facilitates the fitting with the inner wall of the cavity 3. This is used to adapt to the molding requirements of carbon fiber wheel rims. The fitting solution has uniform pressure, a stable structure, and is easy to operate. It also has the same shape as the deformable sheet 11.

[0093] In practical application, the carbon fiber preform is first placed into the cavity 3 of the lower mold 1 wheel rim, and then the flexible arc block 6 is placed in. The appropriate parameters of the flow control valve 26 adapted to the gas are finely adjusted by adjusting the memory disk 35. Then, the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1 are manually closed to complete the initial positioning. After confirming the seal, gas is introduced. The switch set on the energy storage compensation chamber 28 is turned on. After the detector detects that the pressure positioning is up to standard, the signal is transmitted to the sequence valve through the pipeline. The pressure sensor detects that there is no abnormal pressure relief inside the pipeline. The signal is then collected in the sequence valve. At this time, the sequence valve opens, allowing the dual-way diversion valve 32 to supply pressure to the gas collection block 12. The pressure is distributed to the inside of the small airbag 7 through the pressure distribution of the pipeline 9. At this time, the small airbag 7 inflates and drives the deformable sheet 11 to fit around through the soft column 10. As the inner wall of the cavity 3 gradually expands and deforms, the uniform bonding of the carbon fiber preform is gradually completed.

[0094] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the locking component includes:

[0095] The male connector buckle 8 is located on one side of the flexible arc-shaped block 6;

[0096] The other side of the flexible arc block 6 is provided with a female connector groove that matches the male connector buckle 8, so that multiple flexible arc blocks 6 can be spliced ​​together along the inner wall of the cavity 3 to form a complete adapter, ensuring the continuity of pressure application and preventing local omissions.

[0097] The deformable sheet 11 is positioned above the flexible column 10. Its material is soft and flexible. Its function is to deform with the push of the flexible column 10 when the small airbag 7 inflates, closely fitting the irregular inner wall of the carbon fiber preform and the cavity 3, and uniformly converting the airbag pressure into contact pressure on the material.

[0098] The flexible arc-shaped block 6 has a hollow interior;

[0099] The adjusting components include:

[0100] Pipe 9 is installed inside the flexible arc block 6;

[0101] Fixing screw 16 is positioned above the flexible arc-shaped block 6 and below the small airbag 7.

[0102] The inner bottom wall of the small airbag 7 is made of rigid material, while the outer side is made of flexible rubber material;

[0103] Gas collection block 12 is positioned below flexible arc-shaped block 6;

[0104] The main gas line connector 13 is located at the bottom end of the gas collection block 12;

[0105] The air inlet pipe 14 is located on one side of the main air line connector 13;

[0106] The exhaust pipe 15 is located at one end of the air inlet pipe 14.

[0107] Specifically, the flexible arc-shaped block 6 consists of four parts, each with a male connector 8 and a female connector groove at both ends for easy docking and splicing of parts into a whole, preventing any omissions when the small airbags 7 expand and fit together; the deformable sheet 11 can deform and bend at angles to easily fit into the inner wall of the cavity 3; the through pipe 9 facilitates the diversion of gas to the gas collection block 12 for introduction into the small airbags 7 to complete the expansion process; the fixing screw 16 is used to easily install the small airbags 7 onto the flexible arc-shaped block 6, ensuring convenient disassembly during maintenance; there are multiple small airbags 7, and each adjacent pair is connected by the through pipe 9 and connected to the gas collection block 12 through the through pipe 9; the main gas connector 13 facilitates gas regulation; a pipe and a gas storage tank are provided on one side of the power pump 4 to facilitate subsequent extraction of gas into the designated small airbags 7;

[0108] In practical application, multiple male connectors 8 are first connected, and multiple flexible arc blocks 6 completely cover the carbon fiber preform on the inner wall of the cavity 3. After the power pump 4 is started, the gas passes through the air inlet pipe 14 and the main air circuit connector 13, and then enters the gas collection block 12. It is then gradually introduced into the small airbags 7 through the pipes 9 at each branch position. After the gas dissolves in the small airbags 7, the small airbags 7 deform and gradually expand outward, pushing the deformable sheet 11 at the top. Under the deformation of the extrusion, the arc edge of the deformable sheet 11 gradually forms a compression on the surrounding area, ensuring uniform pressure and the effect of adjusting the fitting angle, thus ensuring the effect of use.

[0109] like Figures 6 to 9 As shown, the embedding includes:

[0110] A bellows 20 is installed at one end of the discharge pipe 15;

[0111] Lever 21 is fixedly installed inside the flexible arc block 6 and works with bellows 20 to form a pressure sensor. When the pressure changes, bellows 20 deforms and drives lever 21 to move, thereby converting the pressure signal into a mechanical signal output.

[0112] The torsion support head 22 is located on one side of the lever 21 and is connected to the lower support rod 23 located at the bottom;

[0113] The base plate 25 is located at the bottom end of the lower support rod 23;

[0114] The flow control valve 26 is located inside the base plate 25;

[0115] The thin tube 27 is located on one side of the flow control valve 26, and the other end is connected to the air inlet pipe 14.

[0116] The clamping components include:

[0117] The bronchus 17 is located on one side of the main air line connector 13;

[0118] The return spring 18 is located on one side of the bronchus 17, and the other end is connected to the inside of the lower mold 1.

[0119] A wedge-shaped clamping plate 19 is disposed at one end of the return spring 18, and its bottom end is connected to the outer edge of the inner side of the lower mold 1;

[0120] The lower mold ring strip 120 is set on the outer side of the lower mold 1, and has a stepped recessed groove inside, which facilitates friction when the upper and lower molds are closed, and prevents slippage over time.

[0121] The base 130 is fixedly installed on the outside of the lower mold 1 and located below the lower mold ring strip 120;

[0122] The anti-blocking strip 140 is set inside the stepped recessed groove of the lower mold ring edge strip 120, which facilitates the re-pressurization during air blowing to form a secondary fixation.

[0123] Specifically, the pressure sensor formed by the bellows 20 and the lever 21 is used to monitor the pressure of the small airbag 7 in the corresponding area in real time, and automatically control the amount of gas to prevent excessive gas from forming.

[0124] Damage to carbon fiber material; torsion support head 22 facilitates support for lever 21, enabling pressure sensing and monitoring; flow control valve 26 regulates the amount of gas passing through, preventing a sudden surge of excessive gas from reducing the fitting accuracy of deformable sheet 11; thin tube 27 ensures timely gas passage; branch tube 17 facilitates connection of gas pipelines, ensuring smooth gas flow; return spring 18 facilitates timely reset; wedge-shaped clamping plate 19 ensures tighter clamping when the upper mold 2 and lower mold 1 are closed. To enhance stability, a flow control valve 26 is installed between the bronchus 17 and the thin tube 27. When the gas flow is too weak, it is directed into the inlet tube 14; when the gas flow is too strong, it is simultaneously conducted into the bronchus 17. The step recessed groove through which the lower mold ring edge strip 120 passes facilitates the positioning of the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1. The anti-blocking strip 140 is used to squeeze into the step recessed groove, clamping the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1 while preventing dust from accumulating inside the step recessed groove over time. The base 130 is fixed on the lower mold 1, and the upper part facilitates the installation of the lower mold ring edge strip 120.

[0125] In practical applications, during the closing process of the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1, when it is necessary to adjust the gas quantity, the gas will squeeze the bellows 20 when it is discharged through the discharge pipe 15. The bellows 20 squeezes the lever 21 to swing. The lever 21 twists under the assistance of the torsion support head 22. At this time, the torsion signal is transmitted to the flow control valve 26 through the base plate 25. If the gas is too large, it will be introduced into the position of the wedge plate 19 along the inside of the branch pipe 17. At this time, the gas will push the wedge plate 19 to move. The wedge plate 19 gradually moves inward and the top end is inserted along the gap between the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1 to form a fixed position, which strengthens the positioning effect and improves the stability.

[0126] Furthermore, when the bronchus 17 blows the wedge-shaped plate 19 to move, the bronchus 17 will simultaneously blow the anti-blocking strip 140 to move. The anti-blocking strip 140 gradually moves from the stepped recessed groove and presses against the space between the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1, blocking the gap of the stepped recessed groove while tightening the positioning of the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1.

[0127] like Figure 6 , Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the driving component includes:

[0128] Motor 30 is located on one side of power pump 4;

[0129] The rotating shaft 31 is located at one end of the motor 30;

[0130] A dual-flow diverter valve 32 is located at one end of the rotating shaft 31;

[0131] The energy storage compensation chamber 28 is located below the air inlet pipe 14;

[0132] Switches and detectors are also installed on the outside of the energy storage compensation chamber 28 for real-time monitoring of pressure and gas.

[0133] The main air pipe 29 is located at the bottom of the energy storage compensation chamber 28 and is connected to the power pump 4. It should be noted that it is fixedly installed on the outside of the lower mold 1, with one end directly connected to the air outlet of the power pump 4 and the other end directly connected to the air inlet at the bottom of the energy storage compensation chamber 28. It is the main air supply pipeline for the power pump 4 to supply gas to the pneumatic system.

[0134] The drive unit also includes:

[0135] The through pipe 37 is installed at one end of the power pump 4;

[0136] A sequence valve is installed below the dual-way diversion valve 32, which is a key component used to control the sequence of actions;

[0137] The dual-way diversion valve 32 has an internal coupling to prevent the motor shaft and the power pump shaft from being slightly misaligned, thus preventing jamming and wear, and playing a role in buffering and alignment. The auxiliary motor 30 drives the power pump 4 through the coupling.

[0138] A regulator is installed on the outside of the dual-way diversion valve 32. It receives the pressure of the internal expansion branch of the dual-way diversion valve 32, adjusts the pressure, and then delivers it to each partition inside the multiple flexible arc blocks 6. At the same time, it receives the feedback signal from the pressure sensor located in the middle and adjusts the pressure regulation parameters in real time.

[0139] The locking detector 36 is located on the outside of the dual-way diversion valve 32 and is used to detect the locking state of the wedge plate 19 and control the switching of the dual-way diversion valve 32.

[0140] The control components include:

[0141] The input pipe 33 is located at one end of the dual-way diversion valve 32 and inside the dispatcher;

[0142] Planetary gears 34, which are multiple in number, are located on the outside of the input pipe 33 and are used to evenly distribute the input airflow to multiple outputs. In this device, they are not used for traditional power transmission, but rather as a precision flow and pressure equalizer. Their function is to evenly and synchronously distribute the input airflow from the dual-way diversion valve 32 to the air paths leading to different zones inside each flexible arc block 6 through its multiple outputs, thus ensuring the initial balance of pressure application to each zone from the source.

[0143] The sensor strip 38 is positioned above the dispatcher and is used to sense signals;

[0144] The memory disk 35 is located at the top of the sensing strip 38. The memory disk 35 and the sensing strip 38 work together to form a process parameter learning and storage unit. Its function is to record the pressure and time control curves of each zone during a successful molding process. When producing the same model of product in the future, the system can directly call up this record. The scheduler automatically reproduces the optimal pressure control process based on the process formula stored in the memory disk 35, thereby achieving production consistency and efficiency improvement.

[0145] Specifically, the dual-path diversion valve 32 evenly divides a single high-pressure gas stream into two paths, ensuring that the pressure and flow rate on both sides are basically the same, preventing one side from being larger than the other. The dual-path diversion valve 32 is a core control component for achieving an irreversible and safe process during the initial mold locking, gas regulation, and subsequent molding stages. The energy storage compensation chamber 28 automatically replenishes pressure when the small airbag 7 experiences slight leakage or a slight pressure drop, acting as a buffer and stabilizing agent during instantaneous pressure fluctuations. The main gas pipe 29 exits from the flow control valve 26 in the total gas and runs through the main pipe of all zones. The planetary gear 34 evenly and synchronously distributes the input power from one path to multiple output paths, not for deceleration or transmission, but for pressure equalization of flow rate. The memory disk 35 stores the optimal pressure distribution curve adjusted once, which can be directly retrieved in the next production run without readjustment, saving time. The sensor strip 38 works in conjunction with the memory disk 35 to adjust the optimal pressure distribution curve. An integrated scheduler is installed on the branch pipe 17 to facilitate the rational distribution of gas.

[0146] In practical applications, after the system is started, the motor 30 drives the power pump 4 to operate through the rotating shaft 31 and the coupling located inside the dual-way diversion valve 32. The coupling effectively avoids shaft alignment errors during power transmission, prevents jamming and wear, and ensures smooth and reliable power transmission.

[0147] The compressed gas generated by the power pump 4 first enters the energy storage compensation chamber 28 through the main air pipe 29. The switch and detector outside the chamber monitor the pressure and gas status inside the chamber in real time. The core function of the energy storage compensation chamber 28 is to stabilize the pressure and provide instantaneous compensation: when the system experiences a brief pressure fluctuation due to a small leak in the small air bag 7 or a temperature change, it can quickly release or absorb some gas, thus playing the role of pressure aggregation and maintaining the basic constant pressure of the downstream air path, laying the foundation for precise pressure control. The stabilized gas enters the dual-path diversion valve 32 through the through pipe strip 37. The dual-path diversion valve 32 is the key to the sequential control of this scheme. The initial state is controlled by a sequence valve. In the initial stage, the setting logic of the sequence valve is to guide the gas to enter the mold locking branch first, that is, the air path leading to the branch pipe 17, so as to perform the initial locking of the mold.

[0148] Once the confirmation signal confirming reliable mold locking is fed back to the system, the sequence valve actuates, switching the path of the dual-path diversion valve 32. At this time, the gas is guided to another branch for the expansion and molding of the flexible arc block 6. The gas in this branch enters the dispatcher through the input pipe 33. The core coordinating mechanism of the dispatcher is the planetary gear set 34. Unlike traditional power transmission applications, the planetary gear set 34 here acts as a pressure and flow equalizer. It distributes the airflow from one input path evenly and synchronously to the air paths leading to different zones inside each flexible arc block 6 through its multiple output ends, ensuring the initial synchronicity of pressure application from the source.

[0149] Subsequently, the evenly distributed gas enters the gridded airbag system through the pipelines of each zone. During this process, the controller continuously receives real-time pressure signals from the pressure sensor feedback mechanism composed of the bellows 20, lever 21, etc. The controller compares these feedback signals with the preset pressure curve, dynamically calculates and adjusts the gas pressure parameters output to each zone, and realizes independent and precise closed-loop control of the pressure of the small airbags 7 in each area.

[0150] The memory disk 35 and the sensing strip 38 constitute the system's process parameter learning and storage unit. When the one-time molding process parameters, namely the pressure and time curves of each zone, are adjusted to the optimal state, the operator can start the recording function. The sensing strip 38 converts the recorded pressure adjustment trajectory into physical marks or magnetic records on the memory disk 35. When producing the same model of product in the future, this memory disk 35 can be directly called. The scheduler will automatically reproduce the optimal pressure control process according to the recorded process formula, without repeated debugging, which greatly improves production efficiency and product consistency. The scheduling branch integrated on the bronchus 17 is responsible for distributing part of the gas to the mold clamping drive unit as needed and in a reasonable manner, so as to achieve the function of reasonable blowing for processing.

[0151] A method for processing a blown preformed carbon fiber wheel rim, applied to a fixture for blown preformed carbon fiber wheel rims, includes the following steps:

[0152] The carbon fiber preform is laid in the cavity 3 of the lower mold 1, and the assembled flexible arc block 6 component is covered on it;

[0153] Close the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1;

[0154] When the power pump 4 is started, the gas first drives the action through the auxiliary connection part. The gas enters the mold locking branch first, pushing each wedge plate 19 to move towards the center against the elastic force of the return spring 18. The mechanical amplification effect is generated by the engagement of its inclined surface with the stepped groove of the upper mold 2, thereby powerfully and uniformly locking the upper and lower molds.

[0155] When the mold clamping detector 36 confirms that all locking points are in place and sends a signal, the auxiliary linkage unit switches the air path and delivers gas to the cavity 3 formed by the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1, so that each small airbag 7 expands and pushes the deformable sheet 11 to adaptively fit the workpiece through the soft column 10, applying uniform molding pressure.

[0156] During the pressurization process, the auxiliary linkage unit dynamically adjusts the pressure of each small airbag 7 according to the real-time pressure feedback of each area through the scheduler, so as to realize the closed-loop control of flow restriction in high pressure area and flow replenishment in low pressure area, and finally achieve the adaptive balance of pressure distribution of the entire wheel rim section.

[0157] After the pressure holding period is completed, the system is depressurized, the locking part is reset, and the mold is opened to remove the pre-formed wheel rim workpiece.

[0158] Working principle: First, the carbon fiber preform is placed in the cavity 3 of the lower mold 1, and the assembled flexible arc block 6 is covered on it; the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1 are initially closed manually or through an auxiliary mechanism, and the lower mold ring edge strip 120 and the corresponding flange of the upper mold are initially engaged and guided; the control power is turned on, the motor 30 starts to work, and drives the power pump 4 through the coupling. The gas generated by the power pump 4 enters the energy storage compensation chamber 28 through the main air pipe 29 for pressure stabilization and buffering. The stabilized gas first enters the dual-path diversion valve 32. Under the initial logic or controller command, the dual-path diversion valve 32 prioritizes the gas to be delivered to the drive chamber behind each wedge plate 19 through the branch pipe 17. The branch pipe 17 is distributed by an integrated dispatcher, and is simultaneously delivered to multiple locking drive chambers located behind the wedge plate 19 through multiple branch pipes 17. The gas pressure pushes the wedge plate 19 to overcome the return spring 18. The elastic force moves horizontally toward the center of the mold. The inclined surface of the top of the wedge plate 19 engages with the corresponding stepped recessed groove machined on the side of the upper mold 2, producing a significant mechanical amplification effect, thereby forcefully and evenly locking the upper mold 2 and the lower mold 1 together. At the same time, a small amount of gas separated from the branch pipe 17 pushes the anti-blocking strip 140 into the stepped recessed groove of the lower mold ring edge strip 120 to achieve auxiliary sealing.

[0159] In addition, when each wedge plate 19 moves to the fully locked position, it triggers a mechanical mold clamping detector 36. The output signals of all mold clamping detectors 36 form a series logic. Only when all mold clamping detectors 36 issue a locking signal will a sequence valve that can be set downstream of the dual-path diversion valve 32, which is mechanically linked by these signals, be physically opened. Only after all mold clamping points confirm that they are locked can this sequence valve switch the path and allow gas to enter the next stage. This physically eliminates the risk of starting molding before the mold is locked, and ensures from the hardware level that the molding gas path cannot be connected before the mold is fully and reliably locked.

[0160] After receiving the physical permission signal for mold closing completion, the air path is switched, and the main output path of the dual-path diversion valve 32 is switched to connect with the forming air path. High-pressure gas enters the gas collection block 12 through the inlet pipe 14 and the main air path connector 13, and is then transported in parallel to hundreds of small airbags 7 through various passage pipes 9. The gridded airbag system starts to work, and each small airbag 7 begins to inflate. Through the flexible column 10, it pushes the deformable sheet 11 to fit the carbon fiber preform. The pressure sensors located in each area, which are composed of bellows 20, lever 21, and torsion support head 22, start to work. When the pressure in a certain area reaches the preset contact force, the sensor feeds back the signal to the flow control valve 26 through the lower support rod 23 and other mechanisms. The flow control valve 26 dynamically adjusts the gas flow in its branch according to the feedback, realizing adaptive pressure balance of flow restriction in high-pressure areas and flow replenishment in low-pressure areas. The planetary gear 34 system ensures the synchronization and independence of the multi-path output pressure. This process is continuously dynamically adjusted until the pressure distribution of the entire wheel rim cross section reaches the preset uniform state.

[0161] During the coordinated clamping force process, the air passage of the bronchus 17 is not completely closed, but is connected to the main molding air passage through a mechanical overflow valve with differential pressure sensing. When the molding pressure in the meshed airbag rises in adaptive adjustment, the overflow valve senses the pressure difference and automatically increases the pressure of the clamping drive cavity proportionally. This allows the self-locking force of the wedge plate 19 to adaptively increase with the increase of the internal molding pressure, ensuring that the mold remains absolutely locked under the highest molding pressure, while avoiding mold fatigue caused by using the maximum clamping force throughout the process.

[0162] Finally, during the pressure holding and depressurization process, after reaching the set molding pressure and holding time, the system enters the pressure holding stage. The energy storage compensation chamber 28 plays a role in this stage. If the system pressure fluctuates due to temperature or minor leakage, it can automatically compensate to maintain pressure stability. When the molding process ends, the control system commands the power pump 4 to stop supplying air and open the exhaust valve. The main molding air circuit and the mold locking drive air circuit are depressurized simultaneously. When the pressure in the mold locking drive chamber drops to near zero, the compressed return spring 18 releases its elasticity, pulling the wedge-shaped clamping plate 19 back to its original position and releasing the self-locking. At this time, the upper mold 2 can be safely opened, and the pre-molded carbon fiber wheel rim material workpiece can be taken out. The memory disk 35 can record the pressure and time curves and various control parameters of this successful operation, which can be directly called up when producing the same model of wheel rim next time, realizing one-time optimization and repeated production.

[0163] The foregoing has shown and described the basic principles, main features, and advantages of the present invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. The embodiments and descriptions in the specification are merely illustrative of the principles of the invention. Various changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope, and all such changes and modifications fall within the scope of the present invention as claimed. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A jig for blowing a preform carbon fiber wheel rim, comprising: The lower mold has an upper mold snap-fitted onto its top. The lower mold has a cavity inside, a power pump on its outer side, and a mating groove inside. Multiple flexible arc-shaped blocks are arranged inside the cavity. A flexible column is fixedly mounted on the top of each flexible arc-shaped block, and a small airbag is fixedly mounted on the top of each flexible column. The lower mold is characterized by: The pressure equalization section is located inside the cavity formed by the upper and lower molds. It is used to adaptively fit different areas of the complex cross section of the wheel rim by independently expanding and contracting multiple small airbags, thereby achieving uniform pressure control of the carbon fiber preform. The pressure equalization section includes a positioning component and an adjusting component. The positioning component is disposed inside the cavity and is used to splice and combine multiple flexible arc blocks to adapt to the inner wall contour of the cavity. The positioning component is connected to the adjusting component, which is disposed above the flexible arc blocks and is used to distribute gas to each small airbag and control its pressure. The locking part is located on the outside of the lower mold and can cooperate with the upper mold. It is used to provide dynamic locking force during the molding process and can adaptively increase the locking force when the internal molding pressure increases, so as to improve the reliability of the mold. The locking part includes an insert and a clamping member. The insert is disposed between the upper mold and the lower mold and is used to sense molding pressure and transmit control signals. The insert and the clamping member are connected. The clamping member is disposed on the outside of the mating surface between the lower mold and the upper mold and is used to receive control signals and perform locking actions. The auxiliary connecting part is located on the outside of the lower mold and is used to control the action sequence of the pressure equalization part and the locking part. It drives and coordinates the two in sequence so that the pressure equalization part is molded only after the locking part has completed reliable locking. The auxiliary connection unit includes a drive component and a control component. The drive component is located on one side of the power pump and is used to provide gas power. The drive component is connected to the control component, and the control component is also connected to a dual-path diversion valve for controlling the gas flow direction according to the locking state and adjusting the gas parameters delivered to the pressure equalization section and the locking section.

2. The tool for blowing a preform carbon fiber wheel rim according to claim 1, wherein: The locking component includes: The male connector buckle is located on one side of the flexible arc-shaped block; The other side of the flexible arc-shaped block is provided with a female connector groove that matches the male connector buckle; Deformable sheets are positioned above the flexible pillars to deform and conform to the carbon fiber preform and the inner wall of the cavity when the small airbags inflate. The flexible arc-shaped block has a cavity inside to accommodate gas passages.

3. The tool for blowing a preform carbon fiber wheel rim according to claim 2, wherein: The adjusting element includes: A conduit is installed inside the flexible arc-shaped block to distribute gas to each small airbag; A fixing screw is provided above the flexible arc-shaped block and below the small airbag, for detachably fixing the small airbag to the flexible arc-shaped block. The inner bottom wall of the small airbag is made of rigid material, while the outer side is made of flexible rubber material, which is used to maintain the bottom shape and expand outward when inflated; A gas collection block, located below the flexible arc-shaped block, is used to collect gas from the gas source and distribute it to each passage pipe. The main gas line connector is located at the bottom of the gas collection block and is used to connect to the external gas line. The inlet pipe, located on one side of the main gas line connector, is used to supply gas to the gas collection block; The exhaust pipe, located at one end of the air inlet pipe, is used to exhaust excess gas or guide it to the locking part.

4. The tool for blowing a preform of carbon fiber wheel according to claim 3, wherein: The embedding includes: A bellows, located at one end of the discharge pipe, is used to sense gas pressure and generate deformation; The lever, fixedly installed inside the flexible arc-shaped block, is used to amplify the deformation of the bellows; The lever and bellows work together to form a pressure sensor, which is used to monitor the pressure of the small airbags in the corresponding area in real time; A torsion support, located on one side of the lever and connected to a lower support rod at the bottom, is used to convert the lever's swing into a control signal for the flow control valve.

5. The tool for blowing a preform carbon fiber wheel rim according to claim 4, wherein: The embedding also includes: The base plate, located at the bottom end of the lower support rod, is used to fix the flow control valve. A flow control valve, located inside the base plate, is used to adjust the gas flow rate based on signals transmitted by the insert. A thin tube, located on one side of the flow control valve and connected at the other end to the inlet pipe, is used to deliver the regulated gas to the inlet pipe.

6. The tool for blowing a preform carbon fiber wheel rim according to claim 5, wherein: The clamping element includes: A bronchus, located on one side of the main gas line connector, is used to guide gas to the locking drive chamber; A return spring is located on one side of the bronchus, with the other end connected to the inner side of the lower mold. It is used to reset the wedge-shaped clamping plate after the locking force is released. A wedge-shaped locking plate is set at one end of the return spring, and its bottom end is connected to the outer edge of the inner side of the lower mold. It is used to be inserted into the mating surface of the upper mold and the lower mold under the push of gas pressure to achieve locking. The lower mold ring strip is located on the outside of the lower mold and has stepped recessed grooves inside, which are used to cooperate with the flange of the upper mold to facilitate frictional positioning when the upper and lower molds are closed. The base is fixedly installed on the outside of the lower mold and located below the lower mold ring strip to support the lower mold ring strip; The anti-clogging strip is set inside the stepped recessed groove of the lower mold ring edge strip. It is used to be pushed into the stepped recessed groove by gas during the locking process to achieve auxiliary sealing and secondary fixation.

7. The tool for blowing a preform carbon fiber wheel rim according to claim 6, wherein: The driving component includes: The motor, located on one side of the power pump, is used to provide power; A pipe and a gas storage tank are provided on one side of the power pump for storing and supplying compressed gas; A rotating shaft, located at one end of the motor, is used to transmit power; A dual-flow diverter valve, located at one end of the rotating shaft, is used to divert gas to the locking branch and the forming branch; An energy storage and compensation chamber is located below the gas inlet pipe and is used to stabilize gas pressure and compensate for pressure fluctuations. The outer side of the energy storage compensation chamber is also equipped with a switch and a detector for real-time detection of gas and pressure. The main gas pipeline is located at the bottom of the energy storage compensation chamber and is connected to the power pump to deliver gas from the power pump to the energy storage compensation chamber.

8. The tool for blowing a preform carbon fiber wheel rim according to claim 7, wherein: The driving component also includes: A connecting pipe is installed at one end of the power pump for connecting the power pump and the dual-way diverter valve; A sequence valve is installed below the dual-path diversion valve to control the gas to enter the locking branch first, and then switch to the forming branch after locking is completed. The dual-way diversion valve is equipped with a coupling to prevent the motor shaft and the power pump shaft from being slightly misaligned, to prevent jamming and wear, and to play a role in buffering and correcting alignment. It also assists the motor in driving the power pump through the coupling. The dual-flow diverter is equipped with a controller on its outer side, which receives the pressure of the internal expansion branch of the dual-flow diverter, adjusts the pressure, and then delivers it to each partition inside the multiple flexible arc blocks. At the same time, it receives the feedback signal from the pressure sensor located in the middle and adjusts the pressure regulation parameters in real time. A locking detector is installed on the outside of the dual-channel diversion valve to detect the locking status of the wedge-shaped clamp and control the switching of the dual-channel diversion valve.

9. The tool for blowing a preform carbon fiber wheel rim according to claim 8, wherein: The control component includes: The inlet pipe, located at one end of the dual-way diversion valve and inside the controller, is used to deliver gas from the dual-way diversion valve to the controller. Planetary gears, in multiple forms, are located on the outside of the input pipe to evenly distribute the input airflow to multiple outputs, ensuring pressure synchronization in each zone; The sensor strip, located above the controller, is used to sense pressure signals and transmit them to the memory disk; The memory disk, located at the top of the sensor strip, is used to record and reproduce the optimal pressure control curve.

10. A processing method of a blow-molding preform carbon fiber wheel, using the jig according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: The carbon fiber preform is laid in the cavity of the lower mold, and the assembled flexible arc block assembly is covered on it. Close the upper and lower molds; When the power pump is started, the gas first drives the locking part to move through the auxiliary connecting part, so that the wedge-shaped clamping plate locks the upper and lower molds; Once the mold-locking detector confirms that the locking is complete, the auxiliary connection unit switches the air path and delivers gas to the pressure equalization unit, causing each small airbag to expand and apply uniform molding pressure to the carbon fiber preform. During the pressurization process, the auxiliary correlation unit dynamically adjusts the pressure of each small airbag through the scheduler based on the real-time pressure feedback of each area to achieve pressure adaptive balance. After the pressure holding period is completed, the system is depressurized, the locking part is reset, and the mold is opened to remove the pre-formed wheel rim workpiece.

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