Molding apparatus and molding method for manufacturing a radome

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a forming apparatus for manufacturing a radome, the forming apparatus comprising a reworking device which is arranged at least partially positionally fixed upstream of a cooling device or downstream of the cooling device and upstream of a pulling device, wherein the reworking device comprises a rotary tool assembly which is configured for subtractively machining an initial longitudinal structure of a radome-forming piece generated by a die by a rotary motion of the rotary tool assembly; or the reworking device is configured for additively machining a surface of the radome-forming piece; and / or the reworking device comprises a machining head which is rotatable about the radome-forming piece, the machining head being configured for subtractively or additively machining the surface of the radome-forming piece in the case of a rotary motion about the radome-forming piece. Furthermore, the present disclosure relates to a forming method for manufacturing a radome.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of base station antennas. More specifically, this disclosure relates to molding equipment and molding methods for manufacturing radomes. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, extrusion molding is used to manufacture radomes. In this process, thermoplastic is heated and pressurized in an extruder, forcing it through a die and a shaping mold of a predetermined shape. The plastic then solidifies directly, producing a product with a fixed cross-section and a specific length. During extrusion, the thermoplastic is softened by thermocouples in the extruder, forming a specific shape in the die. It is then rapidly cooled in a cooling and shaping sleeve, and finally, through drawing, cutting, and inspection, becomes the finished product. This method allows for the continuous production of radomes with specific cross-sectional shapes, offering high production efficiency and making it suitable for producing large-sized radomes with relatively simple shapes.

[0003] In extrusion molding, if only a die and a shaping die of a defined shape are used to obtain a radome with a defined cross-sectional shape, then for radomes with different cross-sectional shapes, a matching die and shaping die are required for each radome, significantly increasing costs and incurring considerable time consumption during die changes. Furthermore, in conventional extrusion molding processes, the characteristics of the die and plastic material make it difficult to produce structures with sharp edges. Therefore, there is an urgent need for molding equipment and methods for manufacturing radomes that provide the possibility of producing radomes with various specific cross-sectional shapes with less cost. In addition, the molding equipment and methods should also be able to produce structures with sharp edges. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the object of this disclosure is to provide molding equipment and methods for manufacturing radomes, which enable the production of radomes with various specific cross-sectional shapes with minimal cost. Furthermore, the molding equipment and methods can produce structures with sharp edges.

[0005] Therefore, according to one aspect of this disclosure, a molding apparatus for manufacturing an radome is provided, the molding apparatus comprising: a die configured to output an radome-molded part; a cooling device disposed downstream of the die and configured to cool the radome-molded part; a traction device disposed downstream of the cooling device and configured to pull the radome-molded part; and a reprocessing device configured to reprocess the radome-molded part in the production line, wherein the reprocessing device is at least partially and fixedly disposed upstream of the cooling device or downstream of the cooling device and the traction device. Upstream, wherein the reprocessing apparatus includes a rotary tool assembly configured to perform subtractive machining on the initial longitudinal structure of the radome-formed part generated by the die through its own rotational motion; or the reprocessing apparatus is configured to perform additive machining on the surface of the radome-formed part to produce a final longitudinal structure; and / or the reprocessing apparatus includes a machining head rotatable about the radome-formed part, the machining head configured to perform subtractive or additive machining on the surface of the radome-formed part while rotating about the radome-formed part, in conjunction with the pulling motion of a traction device to produce a final helical structure.

[0006] In this disclosure, when a longitudinal structure is manufactured using subtractive machining, a rotary tool assembly can be used to perform subtractive machining on the radome-formed part output from the die through its own rotational motion, thereby appropriately manufacturing a radome with a final longitudinal structure of suitable size and sharp edges. For manufacturing different longitudinal structures, using a rotary tool assembly with rotational motion is less costly than changing the die and its mating mold, and the time required for changing the arrangement and structure of the rotary tool assembly is also less. Furthermore, by setting up a rotary tool assembly, a higher precision longitudinal structure can be obtained by using subtractive machining measures with higher precision. Similarly, when a longitudinal structure is manufactured using additive machining, a radome with a final longitudinal structure of suitable size and sharp edges can also be appropriately manufactured. For manufacturing different longitudinal structures, using an additive reprocessing apparatus is less costly than changing the die and its mating mold, and different longitudinal structures can be manufactured simply by adjusting the machining parameters and / or arrangement of the additive reprocessing apparatus. Furthermore, when using subtractive or additive manufacturing to produce a helical structure, a suitable helical structure can be produced using a machining head that rotates around the radome-molded part. The rotational speed of the machining head rotating around the radome-molded part and the traction speed of the traction device can be adjusted in combination to produce a helical structure with a suitable pitch and helix angle. This machining head can also produce helical structures with sharp edges and high precision. Moreover, in this disclosure, the reprocessing device is located within the production line, thus enabling "in-line" radome machining. Compared to subtractive machining performed after the radome has cured, this "in-line" radome subtractive machining causes less damage to the radome when using subtractive machining, or even no damage when using additive machining. Both "in-line" machining methods are also more advantageous for precision control. Furthermore, lower costs can be achieved through "in-line" radome subtractive or additive machining.

[0007] In some embodiments, the reprocessing apparatus is configured to produce a final longitudinal structure and / or a final helical structure in conjunction with the pulling motion of the traction device, the final longitudinal structure and / or the final helical structure being capable of altering the wind load characteristics of the radome-molded part or facilitating its mating with a corresponding pairing structure. The final longitudinal structure and / or the final helical structure of this disclosure can achieve different purposes depending on their own structure and arrangement, such as altering the wind load characteristics of the radome-molded part or facilitating its mating with a corresponding pairing structure.

[0008] In some embodiments, for subtractive processing, the reprocessing device is arranged upstream or downstream of the cooling device so that the radome-molded part can be processed by the reprocessing device before it is fully cured; for additive processing, the reprocessing device is arranged upstream of the cooling device so that the additive material applied to the radome-molded part can be cured by the cooling device. Subtractive processing of the radome-molded part before it is fully cured causes less damage to the radome and is also more advantageous for precision control. Furthermore, cooling after additive processing allows the same cooling device to simultaneously achieve curing and overall cooling functions, thus enabling the reuse of the cooling device.

[0009] In some embodiments, the reprocessing device is arranged upstream or downstream of the cooling device. This allows for a more suitable degree of stiffness in the radome-molded part.

[0010] In some embodiments, the shape of the output port of the die is configured such that an initial longitudinal structure is formed on the side and / or front and / or back of the radome-molded part, and the reprocessing apparatus for processing the final longitudinal structure is arranged and configured to process the initial longitudinal structure on the side and / or front and / or back of the radome-molded part. Thus, when the initial longitudinal structure is formed on the side and / or front of the radome-molded part, targeted processing by the subsequent reprocessing apparatus can achieve favorable wind load characteristics, and when the initial longitudinal structure is formed on the back of the radome-molded part, targeted processing by the subsequent reprocessing apparatus can achieve a good fit with the mating structure.

[0011] In some embodiments, the shape of the die's output port is configured such that the initial longitudinal structure emerging from the die's output port is symmetrically or asymmetrically constructed about a central plane on both sides of the radome-formed part, and the reprocessing apparatus for producing the final longitudinal structure is correspondingly arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically about a central plane, wherein the central plane is parallel to the sides of the radome-formed part and extends through the center of the radome-formed part. Thus, a symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangement of the longitudinal structure can be adopted according to actual needs.

[0012] In some embodiments, the reprocessing apparatus further includes a stationary fixed tool assembly for subtractive machining of the initial longitudinal structure. The fixed tool assembly includes: a single-sided tool with a cutting head having two cutting edges and a tip, configured to subtract material from one side of the initial longitudinal structure; and / or a double-sided tool with two opposing cutting heads, each having two cutting edges and a tip, configured to simultaneously subtract material from both sides of the initial longitudinal structure. Thus, the additional fixed tool assembly enables more suitable machining of the initial longitudinal structure, resulting in better machining of structures with sharp edges.

[0013] In some embodiments, the initial longitudinal structure is generated by a die, wherein the shape of the die's output opening is configured such that the initial longitudinal structure has a section where the material thickness changes. This section of the initial longitudinal structure includes a thickness transition portion with machining allowance. The rotary tool assembly is positioned corresponding to the initial longitudinal structure and configured to machine at least a portion of the thickness transition portion of the section where the material thickness changes in the initial longitudinal structure of the radome-formed part. Thus, obtaining the final longitudinal structure can be assigned to the die and the rotary tool assembly of the reprocessing device. The die is responsible for forming the main body of the longitudinal structure, while the reprocessing device is responsible for machining the critical thickness transition portion. This division of labor achieves good cost and precision control not only for the die but also for the reprocessing device, and meets the requirements for the formed shape and the machining accuracy of the thickness transition surface.

[0014] In some embodiments, the rotary tool assembly includes: a cylindrical end mill with a first milling head rotatable about a first milling rotation axis extending perpendicular to the surface of the radome-formed part for subtractive machining of the initial longitudinal structure; and / or a hob with at least one second milling head rotatable about a second milling rotation axis extending parallel to the surface of the radome-formed part and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the radome-formed part for subtractive machining of the initial longitudinal structure. Thus, cylindrical end mills and / or hobs can be flexibly used for different situations. Cylindrical end mills offer greater flexibility in meeting various machining requirements, while hobs are more advantageous for the thickness transition portions on both sides of a protruding structure, better ensuring the machining accuracy of these thickness transition portions. Furthermore, by using the aforementioned cylindrical end mills and hobs, structures with sharp edges can be machined.

[0015] In some embodiments, the initial longitudinal structure includes a protrusion, wherein at least two cylindrical end mills are provided for the protrusion, arranged sequentially along the extension direction of the protrusion, and positioned on both sides of the protrusion for subtractive machining of the two sides of the protrusion; and / or, for the protrusion, a hobbing cutter has two second milling heads that mate with the protrusion, positioned on both sides of the protrusion for subtractive machining of the two sides of the protrusion. Thus, cylindrical end mills and / or hobbing cutters can be flexibly used for cases with protrusions. By using the above-described cylindrical end mills and hobbing cutters, protrusions with sharp edges can be machined.

[0016] In some embodiments, the output port of the die is shaped such that the initial longitudinal structure has at least two protrusions extending longitudinally along the radome-molded part, protruding on a straight side region of the radome-molded part. The first protrusion smoothly transitions to the arcuate corner region of the radome-molded part on one side and forms a first thickness transition portion with machining allowance on the other side. The second protrusion forms second thickness transition portions with machining allowance on both sides. Thus, an initial longitudinal mechanism suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome can be provided by a die of a specific shape, forming a groove-protrusion composite structure.

[0017] In some embodiments, the shape of the output port of the die is configured such that...

[0018] The first protrusion is located near the front of the radome-molded part; and / or

[0019] The second protrusion is located near the back of the radome-molded part; and / or

[0020] The first protrusion is located in the front transition region of the radome-molded part, where it transitions from a straight side region to a front curved corner region, while the second protrusion is located in the rear transition region, near the rear curved corner region of the radome-molded part. Thus, an advantageous initial longitudinal structure suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome can be provided through a die of a specific shape.

[0021] In some embodiments, the tooling assembly is arranged and configured to machine the first thickness transition portion of the first protrusion with a single cylindrical end mill and / or a hob cutter, thereby obtaining the final first protrusion, and to machine the second thickness transition portions on both sides of the second protrusion with a combination of two cylindrical end mills and / or two second milling heads of a hob cutter, thereby obtaining the final second protrusion, to obtain the corresponding final longitudinal structure. Thus, based on an initial longitudinal structure suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome provided by the die, a final longitudinal structure with improved wind load characteristics of the radome is obtained by subtractive machining of the individual thickness transition portions of the initial longitudinal structure. Furthermore, cylindrical end mills and / or hob cutters can be used here as needed, provided that accuracy requirements are met, to satisfy different machining requirements.

[0022] In some embodiments, the output port of the die is shaped such that the initial longitudinal structure has a third protrusion extending longitudinally along the radome-molded part, protruding on a straight side region of the radome-molded part, and a fourth protrusion extending longitudinally along the radome-molded part, protruding from the third protrusion. The third protrusion has a third thickness transition portion with machining allowance on both sides, and the fourth protrusion has a fourth thickness transition portion with machining allowance on both sides. Thus, a die of a specific shape can provide another initial longitudinal mechanism suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome, forming a boss-protrusion composite structure.

[0023] In some embodiments, the shape of the die's output opening is configured such that the third protrusion extends along the entire straight side region of the radome-molded part. This allows for the provision of an advantageous initial longitudinal structure suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome through a die of a specific shape.

[0024] In some embodiments, the output port of the die is shaped such that a fourth protrusion is located at the end of the third protrusion, such that a third thickness transition portion of the third protrusion and a fourth thickness transition portion of the fourth protrusion merge at that end of the third protrusion to form a fifth thickness transition portion. Thus, a favorable initial longitudinal structure suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome can be provided by a die of a specific shape.

[0025] In some embodiments, the output port of the die is shaped such that the fourth protrusion is located at the end of the third protrusion near the rear arcuate corner region of the radome-molded part. Thus, a favorable initial longitudinal structure suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome can be provided by a die of a specific shape.

[0026] In some embodiments, the tooling assembly is arranged and configured to machine, with a corresponding individual cylindrical end mill, the remaining third thickness transition of the third protrusion, the remaining fourth thickness transition of the fourth protrusion, and the fifth thickness transition formed by the third thickness transition of the third protrusion and the fourth thickness transition of the fourth protrusion, thereby obtaining the final third and final fourth protrusions to obtain the corresponding final longitudinal structure. Thus, based on an initial longitudinal structure provided by a die suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome, a final longitudinal structure with improved wind load characteristics of the radome is obtained by subtractive machining of the individual thickness transitions of the initial longitudinal structure.

[0027] In some embodiments, the tooling assembly is arranged and configured to machine the third thickness transition portions on both sides of the third protrusion with a single cylindrical end mill to obtain the final third protrusion, and to machine the fourth thickness transition portions on both sides of the fourth protrusion with a combination of two cylindrical end mills and / or two second milling heads of a hob to obtain the final fourth protrusion, thus obtaining the corresponding final longitudinal structure. Thus, based on an initial longitudinal structure suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome provided by the die, a final longitudinal structure with improved wind load characteristics of the radome is obtained by subtractive machining of the respective thickness transition portions of the initial longitudinal structure. Furthermore, cylindrical end mills and / or hobs can be used here as needed, provided that accuracy requirements are met, to satisfy different machining requirements.

[0028] In some embodiments, the reprocessing apparatus includes a first additive processing nozzle positioned in place, configured to apply additive material to the surface of the radome-formed part, thereby forming a final longitudinal structure in conjunction with the pulling motion of a traction device. Thus, a final longitudinal structure of suitable size and shape can be suitably produced using the first additive processing nozzle.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first additive manufacturing nozzle is arranged and configured, or in combination with a die, such that at least two final protrusions extending longitudinally along the radome-molded part are machined on a straight side region of the radome-molded part. These at least two final protrusions include a final first protrusion and a final second protrusion, with the final first protrusion smoothly transitioning to an arcuate corner region of the radome-molded part on one side. Thus, a final longitudinal structure suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome can be machined using a specifically arranged and configured first additive manufacturing nozzle, forming a groove-protrusion composite structure.

[0030] In some embodiments, the first additive manufacturing nozzle is arranged and configured such that, or the first additive manufacturing nozzle is combined with a die, such that...

[0031] The final first protrusion is located near the front of the radome-shaped part; and / or

[0032] The final second protrusion is located near the back of the radome-shaped part; and / or

[0033] The final first protrusion is located in the front transition region of the radome-molded part, where it transitions from a straight side region to a front curved corner region, while the final second protrusion is located in the rear transition region, near the radome-molded part, where it transitions from a straight side region to a rear curved corner region. Thus, a final longitudinal structure suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome can be manufactured using a specifically arranged and configured first additive manufacturing nozzle.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first additive manufacturing nozzle is arranged and configured, or in combination with a die, such that a raised third protrusion extending longitudinally along the radome-molded part and a fourth protrusion extending longitudinally along the third protrusion are machined on a straight side region of the radome-molded part. Thus, another final longitudinal structure suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome can be machined using a specifically arranged and configured first additive manufacturing nozzle, forming a boss-protrusion composite structure.

[0035] In some embodiments, the first additive manufacturing nozzle is arranged and configured such that, or the first additive manufacturing nozzle is combined with a die, such that...

[0036] The third protrusion extends along the entire straight area of ​​the side of the radome-molded part; and / or

[0037] The fourth protrusion is located at the end of the third protrusion; and / or

[0038] The fourth protrusion is located at the end of the third protrusion near the rear arc-shaped corner region of the radome-molded part. Thus, a final longitudinal structure suitable for improving the wind load characteristics of the radome can be manufactured using a specifically arranged and configured first additive manufacturing nozzle.

[0039] In some embodiments, the machining head, which can rotate around the radome-formed part, can rotate around the radome-formed part along a circular or non-circular trajectory via a rotary mechanism to process the radome-formed part with a circular or non-circular cross-section to form a final helical structure. Thus, suitable machining heads rotating around the radome-formed part along different trajectories can be used for circular or non-circular, such as chamfered rectangular or elliptical radome-formed parts.

[0040] In some embodiments, the rotary mechanism includes a rotary component arranged around the radome-formed part, wherein the rotary component is configured to perform circular rotary motion, and the processing head is fixedly mounted on the rotary component, thereby enabling the processing head to perform circular rotational motion; or the rotary component is configured to perform circular rotary motion, and the processing head is movably mounted on the rotary component in the radial direction, thereby enabling the processing head to perform circular or non-circular rotary motion as needed; or the rotary component is configured to perform non-circular rotary motion, and the processing head is fixedly mounted on the rotary component, thereby enabling the processing head to perform non-circular rotary motion. Thus, different combinations of rotary component and processing head arrangements can be used to allow the processing head, used for machining helical structures, to perform either circular or non-circular rotary motion as needed.

[0041] In some embodiments, the rotating component for performing circular rotational motion is constructed as a hollow annular rotating component. Thus, circular rotational motion can be achieved using a simple and reliable rotating component.

[0042] In some embodiments, the machining head achieves radial mobility along the rotating component through at least one of the following mechanisms:

[0043] - Linear motor drive mechanism;

[0044] - Robotic arm;

[0045] - Gear-rack mechanism;

[0046] - Lead screw mechanism.

[0047] In some embodiments, the rotating component for implementing non-circular rotary motion is constructed as a flexible transmission component, which is capable of cyclic rotary motion within a non-circular guide portion. Thus, non-circular cyclic rotary motion can be suitably achieved using a flexible transmission component.

[0048] In some embodiments, the flexible transmission component is constructed as a chain or belt, especially a synchronous belt.

[0049] In some embodiments, the rotary mechanism further includes a drive gear for driving the rotary component to rotate, and a plurality of spaced-apart openings are provided on the inner and / or outer sides of the circumference of the rotary component, or a plurality of spaced-apart openings are provided through the circumference of the rotary component, wherein the drive gear engages with the openings to drive the rotary component to rotate. Thus, the rotation of the rotary mechanism can be suitably achieved by utilizing the engagement of the drive gear with the openings of the rotary component.

[0050] In some embodiments, the clearance is constructed as a tooth gap, a through hole, or a gap between chains. Thus, different forms of clearance can be used depending on the actual structure that mates with the drive gear.

[0051] In some embodiments, the non-circular trajectory is constructed as an elliptical trajectory or a rectangular trajectory with chamfers, depending on the shape of the radome-molded part. The non-circular trajectory can adopt a corresponding trajectory form according to the actual shape of the radome-molded part.

[0052] In some embodiments, the machining head rotatable around the radome-formed part is configured as a grooving tool, which can machine helical grooves in the surface of the radome-formed part through a combination of rotational motion around the radome-formed part and pulling motion of a traction device. Thus, suitable helical grooves can be machined using the grooving tool through a combination of rotational motion around the radome-formed part and pulling motion of a traction device.

[0053] In some embodiments, the machining head rotatable around the radome-molded part is configured as a second additive machining nozzle, which can machine helical protrusions in the surface of the radome-molded part through rotational motion around the radome-molded part combined with the pulling motion of a traction device. Thus, suitable helical grooves can be machined using the second additive machining nozzle through rotational motion around the radome-molded part combined with the pulling motion of the traction device.

[0054] In some implementations, the slewing mechanism and the traction device work together and are configured to enable the production of a final helical structure with a constant or variable pitch.

[0055] In some embodiments, the ratio of the pitch of the final helical structure to the average diameter of the radome-molded part is 3 to 5. This allows for the fabrication of a final helical structure with a suitable pitch.

[0056] In some embodiments, the molding apparatus further includes a shaping mold disposed downstream of the die and before the cooling device and configured to perform initial shaping of the radome-molded part, the shape of the shaping mold corresponding to the shape of the die, wherein when a reprocessing device is disposed upstream of the cooling device, the reprocessing device is disposed between the shaping mold and the cooling device.

[0057] In some embodiments, the molding equipment is configured to output radome-molded parts via a die orifice through pultrusion or extrusion molding.

[0058] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a molding method for manufacturing an radome is provided, the molding method being performed by molding equipment according to this disclosure, characterized in that the molding method includes the following steps: outputting an radome-molded part and pulling the radome-molded part, outputting the radome-molded part via a die by pultrusion or extrusion molding; cooling the radome-molded part; and performing subtractive processing on the initial longitudinal structure of the radome-molded part or additive processing on the surface of the radome-molded part by means of a position-fixed reprocessing device through its rotational motion to process a final longitudinal structure; and / or performing subtractive or additive processing on the surface of the radome-molded part by means of a processing head rotatable around the radome-molded part while rotating around the radome-molded part, to process a final helical structure in conjunction with the pulling motion of a traction device.

[0059] In some embodiments, when subtractive processing is performed, the step "reprocessing the radome-molded part" is performed before or after the step "cooling the radome-molded part"; when additive processing is performed, the step "reprocessing the radome-molded part" is performed before the step "cooling the radome-molded part".

[0060] In some implementations, the radome-molded part is initially shaped before cooling.

[0061] The technical features mentioned above, those to be mentioned below, and those shown individually in the accompanying drawings can be combined arbitrarily, provided that the combined technical features are not contradictory. All feasible combinations of features are the technical content explicitly described herein. Any one of the multiple sub-features contained in the same statement can be applied independently, without necessarily being applied together with other sub-features. Attached Figure Description

[0062] The present disclosure will be further described below with reference to the illustrative accompanying drawings and exemplary embodiments. Wherein:

[0063] Figure 1This is a schematic structural diagram of a molding apparatus for manufacturing an radome according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein an radome-molded part is being molded and processed.

[0064] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of a molding apparatus including a reprocessing device with a fixed tool assembly and a rotary tool assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Figure 3 This is a schematic structural diagram of a molding apparatus for manufacturing an radome according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein an radome-molded part is being molded and processed.

[0066] Figure 4 This is a schematic perspective view of an antenna radome-molded part that has been processed and cut off by a molding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the radome-molded part.

[0068] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of the final longitudinal structure of a portion of the radome-molded part.

[0069] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 Another schematic perspective view of the final longitudinal structure of a portion of the radome-shaped part.

[0070] Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of the final longitudinal structure of the radome-molded part.

[0071] Figure 9 This is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the final longitudinal structure of a radome-molded part processed by a molding apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Figure 10 This is another schematic perspective view of a portion of the final longitudinal structure of a radome-molded part processed by a molding apparatus according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] Figure 11 This is a schematic structural diagram of a molding apparatus for manufacturing an radome according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein an radome-molded part is being molded and processed.

[0074] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A schematic perspective view of the reprocessing unit of the molding equipment.

[0075] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 A schematic front view of the reprocessing unit of the molding equipment.

[0076] Figure 14 This is a schematic structural diagram of a molding apparatus for manufacturing an radome according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein an radome-molded part is being molded and processed. Detailed Implementation

[0077] Firstly, by using Figure 1 and 2 A first embodiment of the molding apparatus for manufacturing radomes according to this disclosure is described. This molding apparatus is configured to manufacture radomes by pultrusion or extrusion molding. Figure 1 As shown, the molding equipment includes: a die 1 configured to output an antenna radome-molded part 7; a shaping die 2 disposed downstream of the die 1 and configured to perform initial shaping on the antenna radome-molded part 7; a cooling device 3 disposed downstream of the shaping die 2 and configured to cool the antenna radome-molded part 7; a traction device 4 disposed downstream of the cooling device 3 and configured to pull the antenna radome-molded part 7; and a reprocessing device 5, which, as shown... Figure 1 The device shown is at least partially fixed in position downstream of the cooling device 3 and upstream of the traction device 4. The reprocessing device 5 is configured to perform subtractive processing on the initial longitudinal structure 71 of the radome-formed part 7, generated by the die 1, through its own rotational motion. This allows for the processing of materials such as... Figures 4 to 10 The radome-molded part 7 shown has a final longitudinal structure 72. In embodiments not shown, the shaping mold 2 may be omitted when the die 1 meets sufficient shape accuracy requirements for the longitudinal structure. Furthermore, in embodiments not shown, the reprocessing device 5 may be arranged upstream of the cooling device 3, wherein if the shaping mold 2 is provided, the reprocessing device 5 is arranged between the shaping mold 2 and the cooling device 3; otherwise, the reprocessing device 5 is arranged between the die 1 and the cooling device 3. For the arrangement of the reprocessing device 5 upstream or downstream of the cooling device 3, the radome-molded part 7 needs to be able to be processed by the reprocessing device 5 before complete curing. As previously described, suitable softness and hardness of the radome-molded part 7 can be obtained in this incompletely cured state, which is beneficial for "in-line" subtractive processing. In this case, the reprocessing device 5 can be arranged close to the cooling device 3, upstream or downstream of the cooling device 3.

[0078] like Figure 2As shown, in the first embodiment, the reprocessing apparatus 5 may include a rotary tool assembly 6 configured to remove material from the initial longitudinal structure 71 of the radome-formed part 7 by its own rotational motion, thereby performing subtractive processing on the initial longitudinal structure 71 of the radome-formed part 7. In addition, the reprocessing apparatus 5 may also include a fixed tool assembly 5, which may include a single-sided tool and / or a double-sided tool, wherein the single-sided tool can process one side of the initial longitudinal structure, while the double-sided tool can process both sides of the initial longitudinal structure simultaneously. This will be discussed below in conjunction with... Figure 2 The specific structure of the rotary tool assembly 6 is described below. For the structure of the fixed tool assembly 5, please refer to the description of the tool assembly in Chinese patent application number 202510127691.X.

[0079] For subtractive machining of the longitudinal structure, the shape of the output port of the die 1 is configured such that the initial longitudinal structure 71 has a section where the material thickness changes, wherein the section where the material thickness changes in the initial longitudinal structure 71 includes a thickness transition portion with machining allowance. The rotary tool assembly 6 is arranged and configured to machine at least part of the thickness transition portion of the section where the material thickness changes in the initial longitudinal structure 71 of the radome-formed part 7 to obtain the corresponding final longitudinal structure 72.

[0080] To produce this radome-formed part 7, in one embodiment, the output port of the die 1 is shaped such that an initial longitudinal structure 71 is formed on the side of the radome-formed part 7, and the rotary tool assembly 6 is arranged and configured to machine the initial longitudinal structure 71 on the side of the radome-formed part 7. This longitudinal structure on the side of the radome-formed part 7, thus produced, can be used to modify the wind load characteristics of the radome. Here, to obtain more favorable wind load characteristics, the output port of the die 1 is shaped such that the initial longitudinal structure 71 exiting the output port of the die 1 is symmetrically constructed about a central plane on both sides of the radome-formed part 7, and the rotary tool assembly 6 is correspondingly symmetrically arranged about a central plane, which is parallel to the side of the radome-formed part 7 and extends through the center of the radome-formed part 7. Of course, in embodiments not shown, to meet specific wind load characteristics, the shape of the output port of the die 1 can also be configured such that the initial longitudinal structure 71 exiting from the output port of the die 1 is asymmetrically constructed about the central plane on both sides of the radome-formed part 7, and the rotary tool assembly 6 can be correspondingly arranged asymmetrically about the central plane. Besides the side arrangement, it is also conceivable that the shape of the output port of the die 1 is configured such that the initial longitudinal structure 71 is formed on the front side of the radome-formed part 7, and the rotary tool assembly 6 is arranged and configured to machine the initial longitudinal structure 71 on the front side of the radome-formed part 7. This initial longitudinal structure 71 on the front side can also benefit wind load characteristics. Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the shape of the output port of the die 1 is configured such that the initial longitudinal structure 71 is formed on the back side of the radome-formed part 7, and the rotary tool assembly 6 is arranged and configured to machine the initial longitudinal structure 71 on the back side of the radome-formed part 7. This arrangement of the longitudinal structure on the back side can facilitate cooperation with other mating components.

[0081] As from Figure 2 As can be seen, to machine a groove-protrusion composite structure, the rotary tool assembly 6 may include multiple cylindrical end mills 61 and a hobbing cutter 62. Each cylindrical end mill 61 has a first milling head 611, which is rotatable about a first milling rotation axis extending perpendicular to the surface of the radome-formed part 7, in order to perform subtractive machining on the initial longitudinal structure 71. The hobbing cutter 62 has at least one second milling head 612, which is rotatable about a second milling rotation axis extending parallel to the surface of the radome-formed part 7 and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the radome-formed part 7, in order to perform subtractive machining on the initial longitudinal structure 71. Furthermore, as... Figure 2As shown, a fixed tool assembly 5 also exists. Therefore, the fixed tool assembly 5 and the cylindrical end mill 61 and hob end mill 62 in the rotary tool assembly 6 are used in combination. Of course, it is also conceivable to provide only the cylindrical end mill 61 or the hob end mill 62.

[0082] like Figure 2 As shown, a single cylindrical end mill 61 can essentially machine one side, while a combination of two cylindrical end mills 61 can machine both sides of a protrusion. These two cylindrical end mills 61 can, for example, be arranged sequentially back and forth along the extension direction of the protrusion, and are positioned on both sides of the protrusion. The hobbing cutter 62 can be equipped with multiple second milling heads 612 as needed, one of which can be used to machine one side, while a combination of two second milling heads 612 can machine both sides of the protrusion.

[0083] In the first embodiment, the longitudinal structure ultimately obtained by combining the rotary tool assembly 6 with the fixed tool assembly 5 forms a groove-protrusion composite structure, which is formed by two protrusions. Figures 4 to 8 The configuration shown is a groove-protrusion composite structure. The final longitudinal structure 72 achieves good wind load characteristics. To obtain this final groove-protrusion composite structure, the initial longitudinal structure 71 of the radome-molded part 7 output from the output port of the die 1 also forms a groove-protrusion composite structure. For this purpose, the shape of the output port of the die 1 is configured such that the initial longitudinal structure 71 has at least two initial protrusions extending in the longitudinal direction of the radome-molded part 7, protruding on the straight area of ​​the side of the radome-molded part 7. The first protrusion 81 smoothly transitions to the arc-shaped corner area of ​​the radome-molded part 7 on one side and forms a first thickness transition portion with machining allowance on the other side, while the second protrusion 82 forms a second thickness transition portion with machining allowance on both sides. In some embodiments, the first protrusion 81 is close to the front of the radome-molded part 7, and the second protrusion 82 is close to the back of the radome-molded part 7. Specifically, in such Figures 4 to 8 In the embodiment shown, the first protrusion 81 is disposed in the front transition region of the radome-molded part 7, which transitions from the side straight region to the front arc-shaped corner region, while the second protrusion 82 is disposed in the rear transition region of the radome-molded part 7, which transitions from the side straight region to the rear arc-shaped corner region.

[0084] In order to process such as Figures 4 to 8 The final longitudinal structure 72 shown can be configured as follows for each tool assembly: Figure 2The arrangement shown indicates that, for the first protrusion 81, it can be machined sequentially along the production line direction using a single-sided tool from the fixed tool assembly 5, a cylindrical end mill 61 from the rotary tool assembly 6, and one of the second milling heads 612 of the hobbing cutter 62 from the rotary tool assembly 6. For the second protrusion 82, it can be machined sequentially along the production line direction using two single-sided tools from the fixed tool assembly 5, two cylindrical end mills 61 from the rotary tool assembly 6, and two of the second milling heads 612 of the hobbing cutter 62 from the rotary tool assembly 6. The spacing between these corresponding pairs of tools determines the width of the second protrusion 82. Specifically, in... Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the fixed tool assembly 5 and the rotary tool assembly 6 are arranged and configured to machine the first thickness transition portion of the first protrusion 81 with a single-sided tool, a cylindrical end mill 61 and one of the second milling heads 612 of the hob cutter 62, thereby obtaining the final first protrusion 81, and to machine the second thickness transition portions on both sides of the second protrusion 82 with a combination of two single-sided tools 61, a combination of two cylindrical end mills 61 and a combination of two of the second milling heads 612 of the hob cutter 62, thereby obtaining the final second protrusion 82, to obtain the corresponding final longitudinal structure 72. That is, one single-sided tool of the fixed tool assembly 5 and one of the second milling heads 612 of the cylindrical end mill 61 and hob end mill 62 of the rotary tool assembly 6 are arranged on the production line at a position corresponding to the first protrusion 81 and machine the first thickness transition portion on one side of the first protrusion 81 under a specific orientation or machining angle, such as a vertical angle. Meanwhile, the two single-sided tools of the fixed tool assembly 5 and two of the second milling heads 612 of the cylindrical end mill 61 and hob end mill 62 of the rotary tool assembly 6 are arranged on the production line at a position corresponding to the second protrusion 82 and machine the second thickness transition portions on both sides of the second protrusion 82 under a specific orientation or machining angle, such as a vertical angle. The combination of the fixed tool assembly 5 and the rotary tool assembly 6 can machine... Figures 4 to 8 The final longitudinal structure 72 is shown. Of course, in other embodiments, it is also conceivable to machine the first protrusion 81 and the second protrusion 82 using only the rotary tool assembly 6. The first protrusion 81 and the second protrusion 82 can be machined using only the cylindrical end mill 61, only the hob end mill 62, or a combination of the cylindrical end mill 61 and the hob end mill 62. For the second protrusion 82, when machining with the cylindrical end mill 61, if the width of the second protrusion 82 to be machined is narrow, causing the upper main bodies of the two cylindrical end mills 61 to potentially interfere with each other, the two cylindrical end mills 61 can be arranged sequentially and spaced apart from each other along the production line direction.

[0085] In addition to Figures 4 to 8 The groove-protrusion composite structure shown can also be used to process an antenna radome-molded part 7 with a boss-protrusion composite structure using the molding equipment according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. This boss-protrusion composite structure is also formed by two protrusions, however, one of which is a boss-type protrusion, while the other is constructed on the boss-type protrusion to form a protrusion-type protrusion. To obtain this final boss-protrusion composite structure, the initial longitudinal structure 71 of the antenna radome-molded part 7 output from the output port of the die 1 must also be formed into a boss-protrusion composite structure. Therefore, the shape of the output port of the die 1 is configured such that the initial longitudinal structure 71 has a third protrusion 83 that protrudes from the straight side area of ​​the radome-molded part 7 and extends in the longitudinal direction of the radome-molded part 7, and a fourth protrusion 84 that protrudes from the third protrusion 83 and extends in the longitudinal direction of the radome-molded part 7. The third protrusion 83 has a third thickness transition portion with machining allowance on both sides, and the fourth protrusion 84 has a fourth thickness transition portion with machining allowance on both sides. The fourth protrusion 84 is located at the end of the third protrusion 83 near the rear arc-shaped corner area of ​​the radome-molded part 7, and the fourth protrusion 84 is located at the end of the third protrusion 83. Thus, a third thickness transition portion of the third protrusion 83 and a fourth thickness transition portion of the fourth protrusion 84 merge at the end of the third protrusion 83 to form a fifth thickness transition portion. Here, the shape of the output port of the die 1 is configured such that the third protrusion 83 extends along the entire straight area of ​​the side of the radome-molded part 7.

[0086] In order to process such as Figure 9 and Figure 10In one embodiment, the rotary tool assembly 6 can be arranged and configured to machine the remaining third thickness transition of the third protrusion 83, the remaining fourth thickness transition of the fourth protrusion 84, and the fifth thickness transition formed by the third thickness transition of the third protrusion 83 and the fourth thickness transition of the fourth protrusion 84 together with the respective cylindrical end mills 61, thereby obtaining the final third protrusion 83 and the fourth protrusion 84, thus obtaining the corresponding final longitudinal structure 72. Here, different cylindrical end mills 61 can be used for the third thickness transition, the fourth thickness transition, and the fifth thickness transition. In an embodiment not shown, when the fourth protrusion 84 is arranged on the third protrusion 83 in the non-end region of the third protrusion 83, the rotary tool assembly 6 can also be arranged and configured to machine the third thickness transition on both sides of the third protrusion 83 with a combination of two cylindrical end mills 61 or two second milling cutters 612 of a hob cutter 62 to obtain the final third protrusion 83, and to machine the fourth thickness transition on both sides of the fourth protrusion 84 with a combination of another two cylindrical end mills 61 or two additional second milling cutters 612 of another hob cutter 62 to obtain the final fourth protrusion 84, thereby obtaining the corresponding final longitudinal structure 72.

[0087] In alternative embodiments, a combination of rotary tool assembly 6 and fixed tool assembly 5, or a different arrangement of cylindrical end mill 61 and hobbing end mill 62 in rotary tool assembly 6, can also be used to machine materials such as... Figure 9 and Figure 10 The structure shown is the final longitudinal structure 72 of the boss-protrusion composite structure.

[0088] like Figure 3 As shown, in the second embodiment, the reprocessing apparatus can also be configured to perform additive processing on the surface of the radome-molded part 7 to form the final longitudinal structure 72. The reprocessing apparatus may include a first additive processing nozzle 9 fixed in position, configured to apply additive material to the surface of the radome-molded part 7, thereby forming the final longitudinal structure 72 in conjunction with the pulling motion of the traction device 4. The first additive processing nozzle 9 may be arranged upstream of the cooling device 3 along the production line direction, particularly between the forming mold 2 and the cooling device 3. In the second embodiment, since subtractive processing is not performed on the radome-molded part 7, the die 1 can be configured to form a smooth-surfaced radome-molded part 7 without protrusions. The first additive processing nozzle 9 can then perform additive processing on the surface of the radome-molded part 7. In other aspects, the arrangement of the second embodiment of the molding equipment can be found in the corresponding description of the first embodiment of the molding equipment.

[0089] In order to process such as Figures 4 to 8 The illustrated final longitudinal structure 72 is a groove-protrusion composite structure. The first additive manufacturing nozzle 9 can be arranged and configured such that at least two final protrusions extending longitudinally along the radome-molded part 7 are formed on the straight side region of the radome-molded part 7. These at least two final protrusions include a final first protrusion 81 and a final second protrusion 82. The final first protrusion 81 smoothly transitions to the arcuate corner region of the radome-molded part 7 on one side. Alternatively, it is conceivable that an initial longitudinal structure is first formed using a die 1, and then additive manufacturing is performed on the corresponding side portions of the initial first protrusion 81 and the second protrusion in the initial longitudinal structure using the first additive manufacturing nozzle 9 to produce the final longitudinal structure 72. Here, the first additive manufacturing nozzle 9 is arranged and configured such that the final first protrusion 81 is close to the front of the radome-molded part 7; and / or the final second protrusion is close to the back of the radome-molded part 7; and / or the final first protrusion 81 is located in the front transition region of the radome-molded part 7 where it transitions from the side straight region to the front arc corner region, while the final second protrusion is located in the rear transition region of the radome-molded part 7 where it transitions from the side straight region to the rear arc corner region.

[0090] Alternatively, it can be envisioned that the first additive manufacturing nozzle 9 is arranged and configured such that a third protrusion 83 extending longitudinally along the radome-molded part 7 is formed on the straight side region of the radome-molded part 7, and a fourth protrusion 84 extending longitudinally along the radome-molded part 7 is formed on the third protrusion 83, thereby processing a material such as... Figure 9 and Figure 10 The structure shown is the final longitudinal structure 72 of the boss-protrusion composite structure. Alternatively, it can be envisioned that an initial longitudinal structure is first formed using a die 1, and then additively processed using a first additive processing nozzle 9 on the corresponding side portions of the initial third protrusion 83 and fourth protrusion 84 in the initial longitudinal structure to form the final longitudinal structure 72. Here, the first additive processing nozzle 9 can be arranged and configured such that the third protrusion 83 extends along the entire straight side region of the radome-molded part 7; and / or the fourth protrusion 84 is located at the end of the third protrusion 83; and / or the fourth protrusion 84 is located at the end of the third protrusion 83 near the rear arcuate corner region of the radome-molded part 7.

[0091] Next, using Figures 11 to 13A third embodiment of the molding apparatus of this disclosure is described. The molding apparatus of the third embodiment includes a processing head rotatable about a radome-molded part 7. The processing head is configured to perform subtractive or additive machining on the surface of the radome-molded part 7 while rotating around it, in combination with the pulling motion of a traction device 4, to process a final helical structure 11. The processing head rotatable about the radome-molded part 7 is configured as a grooving tool 10, which is capable of forming helical grooves in the surface of the radome-molded part 7 through rotational motion around it combined with the pulling motion of the traction device 4. Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, a machining head capable of rotating around the radome-formed part 7 can rotate along a circular trajectory around the radome-formed part 7 via a rotary mechanism to process the radome-formed part 7, which has a circular cross-section, to form a final helical structure 11. This rotary mechanism includes a rotary component 12 arranged around the radome-formed part 7, wherein the rotary component 12 is configured to perform a circular rotary motion, and a machining head configured as a grooving tool 10 is fixedly mounted on the rotary component 12, thereby enabling the machining head to perform a circular rotary motion and thus perform subtractive machining on the radome-formed part 7 during the circular rotary motion. Combined with the pulling motion of the pulling device, a helical groove structure is finally machined. Here, the rotary component 12 for performing the circular rotary motion is constructed as a hollow annular rotary component 12. Furthermore, the rotary mechanism includes a drive gear 13 for driving the rotary component 12 to rotate, and a plurality of spaced-apart gaps are provided on the outer periphery of the rotary component 12, wherein the drive gear 13 engages in the gaps to drive the rotary component 12 to rotate. The drive gear 13 can be driven, for example, by an electric motor. Here, a toothed structure is provided on the outer periphery of the rotary component 12, and the gaps are constructed with tooth gaps 14. For the gaps, it is also conceivable that a plurality of spaced-apart through holes can be arranged, with pins arranged between each through hole as a transmission structure.

[0092] In embodiments not shown, the machining head, configured as a grooving tool 10, which is rotatable around the radome-formed part 7, can also rotate around the radome-formed part 7 via a rotary mechanism along a non-circular trajectory, such as an elliptical trajectory or a chamfered rectangular trajectory, to machine the radome-formed part 7 with a non-circular, elliptical, or chamfered rectangular cross-section to form a final helical groove structure. For this purpose, the rotary mechanism includes a rotary member 12 arranged around the radome-formed part 7, configured to perform circular rotary motion, and the machining head is movably disposed on the rotary member 12 in the radial direction, so that the machining head can perform non-circular rotary motion as needed; or the rotary member 12 is configured to perform non-circular rotary motion, and the machining head is fixedly disposed on the rotary member 12, so that the machining head can perform non-circular rotary motion. The rotary member 12 for performing circular rotary motion can also be configured as a hollow annular rotary member 12. Here, the machining head achieves radial mobility along the rotating component 12 through at least one of the following mechanisms: a linear motor drive mechanism; a robotic arm; a gear-rack mechanism; or a lead screw mechanism. The rotating component 12, used to perform non-circular rotary motion, can be configured as a flexible transmission component capable of cyclic rotary motion within a non-circular guide section. The flexible transmission component is configured as a chain or belt, particularly a synchronous belt. Here, a drive gear 13 can also be provided to drive the rotating component 12 in rotary motion. The chain can be rotated via the drive gear 13. For the belt, teeth can be provided as gaps, or through holes can be provided. Therefore, depending on the specific structure, the gaps can be configured as tooth gaps, through holes, or gaps between chains.

[0093] In the third embodiment, the rotatable configuration around the radome-molded part 7 allows the machining head of the grooving tool 10 to be arranged upstream or downstream of the cooling device 3, particularly close to the cooling device 3. Other aspects can be found in the arrangement of the molding equipment in the second embodiment.

[0094] Finally, by using Figure 14A fourth embodiment of the molding apparatus of this disclosure is described. In this fourth embodiment, the processing head rotatable about the radome-molded part 7 can be configured as a second additive processing nozzle 15, which can form helical protrusions in the surface of the radome-molded part 7 by a combination of rotational movement about the radome-molded part 7 and pulling movement of the traction device 4. The second additive processing nozzle 15 can rotate by means of a rotary mechanism as in the third embodiment, thereby performing circular or non-circular rotation. Therefore, reference can be made to the relevant description of the third embodiment regarding the form of movement of the processing head and the related implementation mechanism. The second additive processing nozzle 15 can be arranged upstream of the cooling device 3, so that the applied material can be solidified in the cooling device 3 after additive processing.

[0095] Here, the slewing mechanism and the traction device 4 work together and are configured to form a final helical structure 11 with a constant or variable pitch. The ratio of the pitch of the final helical structure 11 to the average diameter of the radome-formed part 7 is 3 to 5.

[0096] In this disclosure, the reprocessing apparatus is configured to cooperate with the pulling motion of the traction device 4 to form a final longitudinal structure 72 and / or a final helical structure 11, which can change the wind load characteristics of the radome-formed part 7 or can cooperate with corresponding mating structures. The final longitudinal structure 72 and the final helical structure 11 can meet corresponding performance requirements, such as wind load characteristics and assembly requirements, under different arrangement positions and specific structural shapes.

[0097] Finally, a molding method for manufacturing a radome is described, which is performed by molding equipment according to the present disclosure. The molding method includes the following steps: outputting a radome-molded part and stretching the radome-molded part; outputting the radome-molded part via a die through pultrusion or extrusion molding; cooling the radome-molded part; and performing subtractive processing on the initial longitudinal structure of the radome-molded part or additive processing on the surface of the radome-molded part by means of a position-fixed reprocessing device through its rotational motion to form a final longitudinal structure; and / or performing subtractive or additive processing on the surface of the radome-molded part by means of a processing head rotatable around the radome-molded part while rotating around the radome-molded part, to form a final helical structure in conjunction with the stretching motion of the traction device. In the case of subtractive processing, the step "reprocessing the radome-molded part" is performed before or after the step "cooling the radome-molded part"; in the case of additive processing, the step "reprocessing the radome-molded part" is performed before the step "cooling the radome-molded part". In addition, the radome-molded part is initially shaped before cooling.

[0098] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the disclosure. The singular forms “a” and “the one” as used herein should include the plural forms unless the context explicitly states otherwise. It is understood that the terms “comprising” and “including,” and other similar terms, when used in the application documents, specifically describe the presence of the stated operation, element, and / or component, without excluding the presence or addition of one or more other operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The term “and / or” as used herein includes all arbitrary combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. In the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals always denote similar elements.

[0099] The thickness of the elements in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated for clarity. It is also understood that if an element is described as being on, coupled to, or connected to another element, then the element may be directly formed on, coupled to, or connected to the other element, or there may be one or more intermediate elements between them. Conversely, if the expressions "directly on," "directly coupled to," and "directly connected to" are used herein, it indicates that there is no intermediate element. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted similarly, such as "between" and "directly between," "attached" and "directly attached," "adjacent" and "directly adjacent," etc.

[0100] Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” “over,” “under,” etc., are used to describe the relationship of one element, layer, or region relative to another element, layer, or region, as shown in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that these terms should also encompass other orientations of the device in addition to those described in the accompanying drawings.

[0101] It is understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe different elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. Thus, a first element may be referred to as a second element without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0102] It can also be considered that all the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein can be arbitrarily combined with each other. Furthermore, all individual technical features in this application can be arbitrarily combined with each other, as long as the combined technical features are not contradictory. All technically feasible combinations of features are the technical content described in this application.

[0103] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are merely for understanding this disclosure and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art can make modifications based on the above embodiments, and these modifications will not depart from the scope of protection of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A molding apparatus for manufacturing an antenna radome, the molding apparatus comprising: The die is configured to output an antenna radome-shaped part; A cooling device is arranged downstream of the die and configured to cool the radome-molded part; A traction device, which is located downstream of the cooling device and configured to pull the radome-shaped part; as well as A reprocessing apparatus, configured to reprocess radome-molded parts in the production line, wherein... The reprocessing device is at least partially and fixedly positioned upstream of the cooling device or downstream of the cooling device and upstream of the traction device, wherein the reprocessing device includes a rotary tool assembly configured to perform subtractive machining on the initial longitudinal structure of the radome-formed part generated by the die through its own rotational motion; or the reprocessing device is configured to perform additive machining on the surface of the radome-formed part to produce the final longitudinal structure; and / or The reprocessing apparatus includes a processing head that can rotate around the radome-formed part. The processing head is configured to perform subtractive or additive processing on the surface of the radome-formed part while rotating around it, in combination with the pulling motion of a traction device to process the final helical structure.

2. The molding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reprocessing device is configured to cooperate with the pulling motion of the traction device to process a final longitudinal structure and / or a final helical structure, which can change the wind load characteristics of the radome-molded part or can cooperate with a corresponding mating structure.

3. The molding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, For subtractive processing, the reprocessing device is arranged upstream or downstream of the cooling device such that the radome-molded part can be processed by the reprocessing device before it is fully cured. For additive manufacturing, the reprocessing device is arranged upstream of the cooling device so that the additive material applied to the radome-molded part can be cured by the cooling device. and / or For subtractive processing, the reprocessing device is arranged upstream or downstream of the cooling device; and / or The shape of the output port of the die is configured such that an initial longitudinal structure is formed on the side and / or front and / or back of the radome-molded part, and the reprocessing apparatus for processing the final longitudinal structure is arranged and configured to process the initial longitudinal structure on the side and / or front and / or back of the radome-molded part; and / or The shape of the die's output port is configured such that the initial longitudinal structure emerging from the die's output port is symmetrically or asymmetrically constructed about a central plane on both sides of the radome-formed part, and the reprocessing apparatus for producing the final longitudinal structure is correspondingly arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically about a central plane, wherein the central plane is parallel to the sides of the radome-formed part and extends through the center of the radome-formed part; and / or The reprocessing apparatus further includes a stationary fixed tool assembly for subtractive machining of the initial longitudinal structure, wherein the fixed tool assembly includes: A single-sided cutting tool having a cutting head with two cutting edges and a cutting tip, configured for subtractive machining of one side of an initial longitudinal structure; and / or A double-sided cutting tool having two opposing cutting heads, each having two cutting edges and a cutting tip, configured to simultaneously perform subtractive machining on both sides of an initial longitudinal structure; and / or The initial longitudinal structure is generated by a die, wherein the shape of the die's output opening is configured such that the initial longitudinal structure has a section where the material thickness varies, wherein the section where the material thickness varies in the initial longitudinal structure includes a thickness transition portion with machining allowance, and the rotary tool assembly is arranged at a position corresponding to the initial longitudinal structure and configured to machine at least a portion of the thickness transition portion of the section where the material thickness varies in the initial longitudinal structure of the radome-formed part; and / or The rotary tool assembly includes: A cylindrical end mill, the cylindrical end mill having a first milling head, the first milling head being rotatable about a first milling rotation axis extending perpendicular to the surface of the radome-formed part, in order to perform subtractive machining on the initial longitudinal structure; and / or A hobbing cutter having at least one second milling head, the second milling head being rotatable about a second milling rotation axis extending parallel to the radome-formed surface and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the radome-formed part, for subtractive machining of the initial longitudinal structure; and / or The initial longitudinal structure includes protrusions, wherein, At least two cylindrical end mills are provided for the protrusion, arranged sequentially along the extension direction of the protrusion, and positioned on both sides of the protrusion to perform subtractive machining on the two sides of the protrusion; and / or For the protrusion, the hobbing cutter has two second milling heads that mate with the protrusion. The two second milling heads are positioned on both sides of the protrusion to perform subtractive machining on the two sides of the protrusion; and / or The output port of the die is shaped such that the initial longitudinal structure has at least two protrusions extending longitudinally along the radome-molded part, protruding on a straight side region of the radome-molded part. The first protrusion smoothly transitions to the arcuate corner region of the radome-molded part on one side and forms a first thickness transition portion with machining allowance on the other side. The second protrusion forms second thickness transition portions with machining allowance on both sides. And / or The shape of the output port of the die is configured such that... The first protrusion is located near the front of the radome-molded part; and / or The second protrusion is located near the back of the radome-molded part; and / or The first protrusion is located in the front transition region of the radome-molded part, where it transitions from a straight side region to a front curved corner region; and the second protrusion is located in the rear transition region of the radome-molded part, where it transitions from a straight side region to a rear curved corner region; and / or The tooling assembly is arranged and configured to machine the first thickness transition portion of the first protrusion with a single cylindrical end mill and / or a hob cutter, thereby obtaining the final first protrusion, and to machine the second thickness transition portions on both sides of the second protrusion with a combination of two cylindrical end mills and / or two second milling heads of a hob cutter, thereby obtaining the final second protrusion, to obtain the corresponding final longitudinal structure; and / or The output port of the die is shaped such that the initial longitudinal structure has a third protrusion extending along the longitudinal direction of the radome-molded part, protruding on the straight side region of the radome-molded part, and a fourth protrusion extending along the longitudinal direction of the radome-molded part, protruding on the third protrusion. The third protrusion has a third thickness transition portion with machining allowance on both sides, and the fourth protrusion has a fourth thickness transition portion with machining allowance on both sides; and / or The shape of the output port of the die is configured such that the third protrusion extends along the entire straight-line area of ​​the side of the radome-molded part; and / or The shape of the output port of the die is configured such that the fourth protrusion is located at the end of the third protrusion, so that a third thickness transition portion of the third protrusion and a fourth thickness transition portion of the fourth protrusion merge at that end of the third protrusion to form a fifth thickness transition portion; and / or The shape of the output port of the die is configured such that the fourth protrusion is located at the end of the third protrusion near the rear arc-shaped corner region of the radome-molded part; and / or The tool assembly is arranged and configured to machine, with a corresponding individual cylindrical end mill, the other remaining third thickness transition of the third protrusion, the other remaining fourth thickness transition of the fourth protrusion, and the fifth thickness transition formed by the third thickness transition of the third protrusion and the fourth thickness transition of the fourth protrusion together, thereby obtaining the final third protrusion and the final fourth protrusion to obtain the corresponding final longitudinal structure; and / or The tooling assembly is arranged and configured to machine the third thickness transition portions on both sides of the third protrusion with a single cylindrical end mill to obtain the final third protrusion, and to machine the fourth thickness transition portions on both sides of the fourth protrusion with a combination of two cylindrical end mills and / or two second milling heads of a hobbing cutter to obtain the final fourth protrusion, thereby obtaining the corresponding final longitudinal structure; and / or The reprocessing apparatus includes a fixed-position first additive processing nozzle configured to apply additive material onto the surface of the radome-molded part, thereby forming the final longitudinal structure in conjunction with the pulling motion of a traction device; and / or The first additive manufacturing nozzle is arranged and configured, or the first additive manufacturing nozzle is combined with a die, such that at least two final protrusions extending longitudinally along the radome-molded part are machined on a straight side region of the radome-molded part, wherein the at least two final protrusions include a final first protrusion and a final second protrusion, and the final first protrusion smoothly transitions to the arcuate corner region of the radome-molded part on one side; and / or The first additive manufacturing nozzle is arranged and configured in such a way that, or the first additive manufacturing nozzle is combined with the die, such that... The final first protrusion is located near the front of the radome-shaped part; and / or The final second protrusion is located near the back of the radome-shaped part; and / or The final first protrusion is located in the front transition region of the radome-molded part, where it transitions from a straight side region to a front curved corner region, while the final second protrusion is located in the rear transition region of the radome-molded part, where it transitions from a straight side region to a rear curved corner region; and / or The first additive manufacturing nozzle is arranged and configured, or the first additive manufacturing nozzle is combined with a die, such that a raised third protrusion extending along the longitudinal direction of the radome-molded part and a fourth protrusion extending along the longitudinal direction of the radome-molded part are machined on the straight side region of the radome-molded part; and / or The first additive manufacturing nozzle is arranged and configured in such a way that, or the first additive manufacturing nozzle is combined with the die, such that... The third protrusion extends along the entire straight area of ​​the side of the radome-molded part; and / or The fourth protrusion is located at the end of the third protrusion; and / or The fourth protrusion is located at the end of the third protrusion near the rear arc-shaped corner region of the radome-molded part; and / or The machining head, capable of rotating around the radome-formed part, can rotate via a rotary mechanism around the radome-formed part along a circular or non-circular trajectory to process the radome-formed part with a circular or non-circular cross-section to form a final helical structure; and / or The rotating mechanism includes rotating components arranged around the radome-molded part, wherein, The rotating component is configured to perform circular rotational motion, and the processing head is fixedly mounted on the rotating component, thereby enabling the processing head to perform circular rotational motion; or The rotating component is configured to perform circular rotational motion, and the processing head is movably mounted on the rotating component along its radial direction, thereby enabling the processing head to perform either circular or non-circular rotational motion as needed; or The rotating component is configured to perform non-circular rotary motion, and the processing head is fixedly mounted on the rotating component, thereby enabling the processing head to perform non-circular rotary motion; and / or The rotating component used to perform circular rotational motion is constructed as a hollow annular rotating component; and / or The machining head achieves its radial mobility along the rotating component through at least one of the following mechanisms: - Linear motor drive mechanism; - Robotic arm; - Gear-rack mechanism; - Lead screw mechanism; and / or The rotating component for implementing non-circular rotary motion is constructed as a flexible transmission component, which is capable of cyclic rotary motion in the non-circular guide section; and / or The flexible transmission component is constructed as a chain or a transmission belt; and / or The rotary mechanism further includes a drive gear for driving the rotary component to rotate, and a plurality of spaced-apart gaps are provided on the inner and / or outer sides of the circumference of the rotary component, or a plurality of spaced-apart gaps are provided through the circumference of the rotary component, wherein the drive gear engages with the gaps to drive the rotary component to rotate; and / or The gap is constructed as a tooth gap, a through hole, or a gap between chains; and / or The non-circular trajectory is constructed as an elliptical trajectory or a rectangular trajectory with chamfers, depending on the shape of the radome-molded part; and / or The machining head, capable of rotating around the radome-formed part, is configured as a grooving tool. This grooving tool can machine spiral grooves into the surface of the radome-formed part through a combination of rotational motion around the radome-formed part and pulling motion of a traction device; and / or The machining head capable of rotating around the radome-molded part is configured as a second additive machining nozzle, which can machine spiral protrusions on the surface of the radome-molded part through a combination of rotational motion around the radome-molded part and pulling motion of a traction device; and / or The rotary mechanism and traction device work together and are configured to enable the machining of a final helical structure with constant or variable pitch; and / or The final ratio of the pitch of the spiral structure to the average diameter of the radome-molded part is 3 to 5.

4. The molding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The molding equipment also includes a shaping mold arranged downstream of the die and before the cooling device and configured to perform initial shaping on the radome-molded part. The shape of the shaping mold corresponds to the shape of the die. When a reprocessing device is arranged upstream of the cooling device, the reprocessing device is arranged between the shaping mold and the cooling device.

5. The molding equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The molding equipment is configured to output radome-molded parts via a die orifice through pultrusion or extrusion molding.

6. A molding method for manufacturing an antenna radome, said molding method being performed by a molding apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The molding method includes the following steps: Output the radome-molded part and stretch the radome-molded part, and output the radome-molded part through a die by pultrusion or extrusion molding; Cooling the radome-molded part; and Using a fixed-position reprocessing device, the initial longitudinal structure of the radome-formed part is subjected to subtractive processing or the surface of the radome-formed part is subjected to additive processing through its rotational motion to produce the final longitudinal structure; and / or Using a machining head that can rotate around the radome-molded part, the surface of the radome-molded part is processed by subtractive or additive machining while rotating around the radome-molded part, and the final spiral structure is processed by combining the pulling motion of the traction device.

7. The molding method according to claim 6, characterized in that, In the case of subtractive processing, the step "reprocessing the radome-molded part" is performed before or after the step "cooling the radome-molded part"; In the case of additive manufacturing, the step "reprocessing the radome-molded part" is performed before the step "cooling the radome-molded part".

8. The molding method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The radome-molded part is initially shaped before cooling.

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