Prepreg tape application system for covering a composite edge.

Abstract

- Prepreg tape application system for covering a composite edge. - The application system (1) comprises an elongated body (8), an alignment device (9) configured to maintain alignment of the elongated body (8) with respect to the composite edge (3) while the application system (1) is moved along the composite edge (3), a dispenser (10) configured to supply the prepreg tape (2), a central squeegee device (11) configured to apply the prepreg tape (2) to the edge (4) of the composite edge (3), and a lateral squeegee device (12) configured to fold down and apply the prepreg tape (2) to the two lateral surfaces (5) of the composite edge (3). Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: System for applying prepreg tape to cover a composite edge. technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a prepreg tape application system for covering a composite edge. State of the art

[0002] A part made of composite material, in particular a part made of carbon composite material, corresponds to a heterogeneous assembly of at least two components.

[0003] The surfaces and edges of the composite material part must be isolated from the external environment to protect the composite material part from phenomena that could damage it, such as corrosion from nearby metal parts (galvanic corrosion) or electric arcs.

[0004] To isolate these composite material parts, layers of carbon composite material pre-impregnated with glass fibers can be used.

[0005] This type of protection can be used for a stringer intended to reinforce a wing box of an aircraft or any other boxed structure such as horizontal or vertical tailplanes. The stringer has a U-shaped cross-section. A layer of carbon composite material pre-impregnated with glass fibers can be applied to the inner surface of the stringer. However, the lateral edges, which correspond to the ends of the U-shape, are cut off. They are therefore not protected. It is thus necessary to protect them by applying a protective layer of pre-impregnated glass fiber. This can be done by depositing and bonding a narrow strip of pre-impregnated glass fiber to the edges of the stringer. Several systems exist for applying a layer of pre-impregnated glass fiber.For example, the prepreg layer can be applied by an automated tape laying (ATL) machine, an automated fiber placement (AFP) machine, or a pick-and-place machine. However, these systems do not easily allow for the application of narrow tapes to edges.

[0006] It is also possible to use a manual application method. However, this method does not allow for industrial reproducibility and does not allow for sufficient production rates.

[0007] Consequently, current systems for applying a layer of worm fiber prepreg to an edge of a composite part are not satisfactory. Description of the invention

[0008] The present invention aims to provide an application system that overcomes the drawbacks of prior art systems.

[0009] For this purpose, it relates to a prepreg tape application system for covering a composite edge, the composite edge comprising a slice and two lateral surfaces on either side of the slice, the prepreg tape (2) comprising a longitudinal central zone and two longitudinal lateral zones on either side of the longitudinal central zone.

[0010] According to the invention, the application system comprises: - an elongated body with a longitudinal axis; - an alignment device configured to maintain alignment of the elongated body with respect to the composite edge so that the longitudinal axis of the elongated body remains parallel to the composite edge while the application system is moved along the composite edge in a direction of movement of use of the application system; - a prepreg tape dispenser configured to supply the prepreg tape while the application system is moved along the composite edge according to the direction of movement for use; - a central scrimping device configured to apply the longitudinal central area of ​​the prepreg tape supplied by the dispenser to the edge of the composite while the application system is moved along the edge of the composite in the direction of movement for use; - a lateral scrimping device configured to fold down and apply the two longitudinal lateral areas of the prepreg tape to the two lateral surfaces of the composite edge after the longitudinal central area of ​​the prepreg tape has been applied to the edge of the composite while the application system is moved along the composite edge in the direction of use.

[0011] Thus, the application system includes all the devices necessary for the application of a prepreg tape to a composite edge while being a compact system.

[0012] In addition, the application system includes a fastening device configured to fix a heating device intended to heat a portion of the composite edge before the central scrimping device applies the longitudinal central area of ​​the prepreg tape to the edge of the composite.

[0013] According to one particular feature, the alignment device comprises a first alignment unit and a second alignment unit, the first alignment unit being mounted at a first longitudinal end of the elongated body, the second alignment unit being mounted at a second longitudinal end of the elongated body, the first longitudinal end being located before the second longitudinal end, the first alignment unit and the second alignment unit each comprising two rollers configured to clamp the composite edge between them, the two rollers being intended to press according to a first predetermined force against the two lateral surfaces of the composite edge.

[0014] According to another feature, the first alignment unit and the second alignment unit each comprise a pantograph mechanism linking the two rollers to the elongated body, the pantograph mechanism comprising an adjustment element, the adjustment element being configured to adjust the first predetermined force exerted by each of the two rollers against the two lateral surfaces of the composite edge.

[0015] Furthermore, the pantograph mechanism comprises four bars articulated together to form an articulated rhombus, the articulated rhombus having a first vertex opposite a second vertex, the first vertex and the second vertex being aligned with the longitudinal axis of the elongated body, the first vertex being fixed rigidly to the elongated body, the first vertex being formed of two bars each having a clamping end extending beyond the first vertex and extending symmetrically with respect to each other, the clamping end of each of said two bars having one of the two rollers configured to clamp the composite edge between them, the two rollers each having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the articulated rhombus, the second vertex being able to achieve a displacement parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body, the adjustment element comprising a guide rod perpendicular to the articulated rhombus,the adjustment element comprising a slide including a guide slot parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body, the guide slot receiving the guide rod to guide and limit the displacement of the second vertex, the adjustment element further comprising a threaded rod and a helical spring coaxial and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body, the threaded rod having a first end screwed into a tapped hole in the guide rod, the screwing and unscrewing of the threaded rod in the tapped hole being capable of moving the second vertex of the articulated rhombus, the helical spring being compressed between the slide and a second end of the threaded rod, the helical spring being capable, to exert a first pulling force separating the second vertex from the first vertex, the first predetermined force exerted by the two rollers against the two lateral surfaces of the composite edge being a function of the first pulling force exerted by the helical spring.

[0016] Furthermore, the central scrimping device includes a scrimping roller intended to roll over the longitudinal central area of ​​the prepreg tape supplied by the dispenser in order to apply said longitudinal central area to the edge of the composite edge.

[0017] According to another feature, the application system includes a guide roller intended to roll on the edge of the composite edge, the guide roller being mounted at the front of the elongated body.

[0018] Furthermore, the lateral scrimping device is mounted on the elongated body after the central scrimping device in the direction of movement of use, the lateral scrimping device comprising two rollers intended to be placed on either side of the composite edge, the two rollers being configured to fold down and apply according to a second predetermined force the two longitudinal lateral areas of the prepreg tape on the two lateral surfaces of the composite edge after the longitudinal central area of ​​the prepreg tape has been applied to the edge of the composite edge.

[0019] In addition, the two rollers are configured to rotate around an axis of rotation making an angle between 0° and 10° with respect to a bisector separating an angle between the axes of rotation of the two rollers.

[0020] Advantageously, the lateral scrimping device comprises a two-bar mechanism having a first bar and a second bar, the two bars being articulated to each other at their midpoint about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the two bars, the axis of rotation being mounted rigidly to the elongated body, each of the two bars having a first end and a second end, each of the two rollers being arranged at the respective first end of the two bars, the second end of the first bar having a first adjusting rod perpendicular to the two bars, the second end of the second bar having a second adjusting rod perpendicular to the two bars, the two-bar mechanism further comprising a threaded rod and a helical spring coaxial and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body, the threaded rod having a first end and a second end,the first end of the threaded rod being screwed into a tapped hole in the first adjusting rod, the threaded rod further passing through a smooth hole in the second adjusting rod, the helical spring being compressed between the second adjusting rod and the second end of the threaded rod, the screwing and unscrewing of the threaded rod in the, tapped hole being able to bring together and away the second end of the first bar and the second end of the second bar, the helical spring being able to exert a second tensile force tending to bring together the second end of the first bar and the second end of the second bar, the second predetermined force exerted by the two rollers to apply the two longitudinal lateral areas of the prepreg tape on the two lateral surfaces of the composite edge being a function of the second tensile force exerted by the helical spring.

[0021] Furthermore, the dispenser comprises a first reel and a second reel, the first reel being configured to supply the prepreg tape and a protective film both wound onto the first reel, the protective film being intended to protect the prepreg tape when it is wound onto the first reel, the second reel being configured to wind the protective film which is detached from the prepreg tape while the first reel supplies the prepreg tape, the second reel being driven in rotation by the first reel via a transmission belt, a displacement of the elongated body in the direction of travel of use causing a rotation of the first reel to supply the prepreg tape, the rotation of the first reel causing a rotation of the second reel via the transmission belt to wind the protective film.

[0022] The invention also relates to a method of using an application system as described above.

[0023] According to the invention, the process comprises the following steps: - a step of placing one end of the prepreg tape supplied by the dispenser onto the edge of the composite, - a step of setting up the application system on the prepreg tape placed on the composite edge using the alignment device, - a step of moving the application system along the edge of the composite;

[0024] The method comprising the following steps implemented during the displacement step: - a supply step implemented by the dispenser to supply the pre-impregnated tape, - a first scrimming step implemented by the central scrimming device to apply the longitudinal central zone of the prepreg tape supplied by the dispenser to the edge of the composite, - a second scrimming step implemented by the lateral scrimming device to fold down and apply the two longitudinal lateral areas of the prepreg tape to the two lateral surfaces of the composite edge after the longitudinal central area of ​​the prepreg tape has been applied to the edge of the composite edge.

[0025] In addition, the method includes a heating step preceding the first scrimming step, the heating step being implemented by the heating device which can be attached to the fixing device to heat a part of the composite edge before the central scrimming device applies the longitudinal central area of ​​the prepreg tape to the edge of the composite. Brief description of the figures

[0026] The accompanying figures will clearly illustrate how the invention can be implemented. In these figures, identical reference numerals designate similar elements.

[0027] Fig. 1 represents a top perspective view of the application system.

[0028] Fig. 2 represents a perspective view of the underside of the application system.

[0029] Fig. 3 represents a cross-section of a stiffener on which a protective layer and a prepreg tape have been applied.

[0030] Fig. 4 represents a perspective view of the front of the application system.

[0031] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of an alignment unit of the device alignment.

[0032] Fig. 6 represents a side view of the reel and the central scrimping device.

[0033] Fig. 7 represents a front view of the lateral mounting device.

[0034] Fig. 8 represents a top view of the lateral mounting device.

[0035] Figure 9 schematically represents the method of using the application system. Detailed description

[0036] The application system 1 of prepreg tape 2 to cover an edge of composite 3 is shown in [Fig.1] and [Fig.2].

[0037] The composite edge 3 comprises a slice 4 and two lateral surfaces 5 on either side of the slice 4 ([Fig.3]).

[0038] Slice 4 corresponds to a surface adjacent to the two lateral surfaces 5. Slice 4 is substantially perpendicular to the two lateral surfaces 5.

[0039] Composite 44 refers to a part made of composite material, such as a carbon composite. By way of non-limiting example, composite 44 refers to a stiffener intended to reinforce a wing box of an aircraft. Figure 3 shows a cross-section of a stiffener. The cross-section has a U-shape. Without limitation, the stiffener may have a length of 6 m.

[0040] The prepreg tape 3 can correspond to a tape made of glass fiber prepreg composite material.

[0041] The prepreg tape 3 has a central longitudinal zone 6 and two lateral longitudinal zones 7 on either side of the central longitudinal zone 6.

[0042] The application system 1 comprises an elongated body 8 which has a longitudinal axis A.

[0043] In the following description, the term "front end" of the application system 1 or the elongated body 8 refers to an end of the application system 1 or the elongated body 8 that corresponds to a front end in a direction of use D represented in [Fig. 1], [Fig. 2], [Fig. 4] and [Fig. 6] by an arrow whose reference is D. The direction of use D corresponds to the direction in which the application system 1 is used to apply the prepreg tape 2 to the edge of the composite 3. Furthermore, a first element that is located before a second element corresponds to a succession of the first element and the second element in the direction of use D.

[0044] In the following description, the adjective "lower" refers to a portion of the elongated body 8 that is intended to face the edge of the composite 3 when the application system 1 is used. The adjective "upper" refers to a portion of the elongated body 8 that is opposite the upper portion.

[0045] The application system 1 also includes an alignment device 9, a reel 10, a central scrimming device 11 and a lateral scrimming device 12.

[0046] The application system 1 may also include a fastening device 13 for attaching a heating device (not shown). Preferably, the fastening device 13 is mounted on the upper part of the elongated body 8.

[0047] The heating device is intended to heat a portion of the composite edge 3 before the application system 1 applies the prepreg tape 2 to the composite edge 3. The heating device is intended to heat said portion of the composite edge 3 to a predetermined temperature. This predetermined temperature allows the prepreg tape 2 applied to the composite edge 3 to have sufficient tackiness to adhere adequately to the composite edge 3, without the parts of the application system 1 in contact with the prepreg tape 2 sticking to the prepreg tape 2.

[0048] The fastening device 13 can correspond to a flange, as shown in [Fig.2] and [Fig.4], allowing the heating device to be held.

[0049] The heating device may be a hot air gun that blows hot air. The hot air gun may be fixed so that the hot air is directed towards the front of the application system 1 onto the composite edge 3. The flange may be tightened or loosened to adjust the distance between the end of the hot air gun and the composite edge 3.

[0050] The alignment device 9 is configured to maintain alignment of the elongated body 8 with respect to the composite edge 3 such that the longitudinal axis A of the elongated body 8 remains parallel to the composite edge 3 while the application system 1 is moved along the composite edge 3 in the direction of application system 1's use D. The alignment device 9 can also be configured to maintain centering of the elongated body 8 with respect to the composite edge 3. For example, the centering ensures that the two longitudinal lateral zones 7 on either side of the central longitudinal zone 6 are substantially equal. Advantageously, the alignment device 9 is mounted on the lower part of the elongated body 8.

[0051] The alignment device 9 can include a first alignment unit 9A and a second alignment unit 9B ([Fig.1] and [Fig.2]).

[0052] Preferably, the first alignment unit 9A is mounted at a first longitudinal end 14 of the elongated body 8. The second alignment unit 9B is mounted at a second longitudinal end 15 of the elongated body 8. The first longitudinal end 14 is located before the second longitudinal end 15 in the direction of use D.

[0053] The first alignment unit 9A and the second alignment unit 9B each comprise two rollers 16A, 16B configured to clamp the composite edge 3 between them. The two rollers 16A, 16B are intended to apply a predetermined first force Fl against the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3 ([Fig. 5]). Roller 16A exerts a predetermined first force Fl against one of the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3, which is opposite to the predetermined first force Fl exerted by roller 16B against the other of the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3. Preferably, the absolute value of the first force Fl exerted by roller 16A is equal to the absolute value of the first force Fl applied by roller 16B. Furthermore, the two rollers 16A and 16B are configured to roll against the lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3 when the application system 1 is moved in the direction of use D.

[0054] Advantageously, the first alignment unit 9A and the second alignment unit 9B each comprise a pantograph mechanism 17 linking the two rollers 16A, 16B with elongated bodies 8 ([Fig.5]). The pantograph mechanism 17 includes an adjustment element 18. The adjustment element 18 is configured to adjust the first predetermined force Fl exerted by each of the two rollers 16A, 16B against the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3.

[0055] By way of non-limiting example, the pantograph mechanism 17 may comprise four bars B1, B2, B3, B4 articulated together to form an articulated rhombus. The articulated rhombus has a first vertex S1 opposite a second vertex S2. The first vertex S1 and the second vertex S2 are aligned with the longitudinal axis A of the elongated body 8. The first vertex S1 is fixed rigidly to the elongated body 8. The first vertex S1 is formed of two bars B1, B2, each of which has a clamping end 19, 20 extending beyond the first vertex S1 and extending symmetrically with respect to each other. The clamping end 19, 20 of each of said two bars Bl, B2 includes one of the two rollers 16A, 16B configured to clamp the composite edge 3 between them. The two rollers 16A, 16B each have an axis of rotation 21A, 21B perpendicular to the articulated rhombus.The second vertex S2 is capable of moving a distance M parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the elongated body 8. The adjustment element 18 may include a guide rod 22 perpendicular to the articulated rhombus. The adjustment element 18 may further include a slide 23 which includes a guide slot 24 parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the elongated body 8. The guide slot 24 receives the guide rod 22 to guide and limit the displacement M of the second vertex S2. The length of the guide slot 24 defines the distance of displacement M that can be achieved by the guide rod 22. The adjustment element 18 may further include a threaded rod 25 and a helical spring 26 coaxial and parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the elongated body 8. The threaded rod 25 has a first end screwed into a tapped hole in the guide rod 22.The screwing and unscrewing of the threaded rod 25 in the tapped hole is capable of moving the second vertex S2 of the articulated rhombus in one direction and in the opposite direction. The helical spring 26 is compressed between the slide 23 and a second end 27 of the threaded rod 25. The helical spring 26 is capable of exerting a first compressive force FT1 tending to move the second vertex S2 away from the first vertex SL. The first predetermined force Fl exerted by the two rollers 16A, 16B against the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3 is a function of the first compressive force FT1 exerted by the helical spring 26. The first compressive force FT1 is exerted on the second end 27 of the threaded rod 25. For example, the second end 27 of the threaded rod 25 includes a stop on which the first compressive force FT1 is exerted.This first compressive force FT1 therefore drives the threaded rod 25 which drives the second vertex S2 of the articulated rhombus. This separation of the second vertex S2. The movement of the first vertex SI causes the two rollers 16A and 16B to move closer together. When the two rollers 16A and 16B bear against the lateral surface 5 of the composite edge 3, the movement of the second vertex S2 away from the first vertex SI therefore results in an increase in the first predetermined force Fl. Furthermore, the helical spring 26 allows for flexibility in the position of the rollers 16A and 16B, which makes it possible, on the one hand, to center the application system 1 on the composite edge 3 by separating the rollers 16A and 16B and, on the other hand, to adapt the spacing between the two rollers 16A and 16B to the irregularities of the composite edge 3.

[0056] The central scrimping device 11 is configured to apply the longitudinal central area 6 of the prepreg tape 2 supplied by the dispenser 10 to the edge 4 of the composite edge 3 while the application system 1 is moved along the composite edge 3 in the direction of use D.

[0057] Advantageously, the central mounting device 11 is mounted on the lower part of the elongated body 8.

[0058] The central scrimming device 11 may include a scrimming roller 29 intended to roll over the longitudinal central area 6 of the prepreg tape 2 supplied by the dispenser 10 in order to apply said longitudinal central area 6 to the edge 4 of the composite edge 3. Thus, the longitudinal central area 6 of the prepreg tape 2 is applied to the edge 4 by the scrimming roller 29.

[0059] The application system 1 may further include a guide roller 28 for rolling along the edge 4 of the composite edge 3 ([Fig. 1], [Fig. 2], [Fig. 4]). The guide roller 28 is mounted at the front of the elongated body 8. The guide roller 28 rolls along the edge 4 of the composite edge 3 before the prepreg tape 2 is applied to the composite edge 3. The guide roller 28 cooperates with the swaddling roller 29 so that the application system 1 can roll along the edge of the composite edge 3 while keeping the longitudinal axis A of the elongated body 8 substantially parallel to the composite edge 3. Furthermore, the guide roller 28 also allows the application system 1 to be placed on one end of the composite edge 3 so that the heating device can heat the end of the composite edge 3.

[0060] The prepreg tape 2 dispenser 10 is configured to supply the prepreg tape 2 while the application system 1 is moved along the composite edge 3 according to the direction of use D.

[0061] Advantageously, the dispenser 10 is mounted on the upper part of the elongated body 8. The elongated body 8 includes a through opening 46 to allow the pre-impregnated tape 2 to pass between the dispenser 10 and the masking roller 29.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the dispenser 10 comprises a first reel B1 and a second reel B2 ([Fig. 6]). The first reel B1 is configured to supply the prepreg tape 2 and a protective film 42, both wound onto the first reel B1. The protective film 42 is intended to protect the prepreg tape 2 when it is wound onto the first reel B1; therefore, it is preferable to remove it when the prepreg tape 2 is applied to the composite edge 3. The second reel B2 is configured to wind the protective film 42, which is detached from the prepreg tape 2, while the first reel B1 supplies the prepreg tape 2. The second reel B2 is driven in rotation by the first reel B1 via a drive belt 43.A movement of the elongated body 8 along the direction of use D causes a rotation of the first reel B1 to supply the prepreg tape 2. The rotation of the first reel B1 causes a rotation of the second reel B2 via the transmission belt 43 to wind the protective film 42.

[0063] The lateral squeegee 12 is configured to fold down and apply the two longitudinal lateral areas 7 of the prepreg tape 2 to the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3 after the central longitudinal area 6 of the prepreg tape 2 has been applied to the edge 4 of the composite edge 3 while the application system 1 is moved along the composite edge 3 in the direction of use D. The two longitudinal lateral areas 7 of the prepreg tape 2 are applied and folded down onto the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3 after the central longitudinal area 6 has been applied to the edge 4 of the composite edge 3. Advantageously, the lateral squeegee 12 is mounted on the lower part of the elongated body 8.

[0064] The lateral squeegee 12 is mounted on the elongated body 8 after the central squeegee 11 in the direction of travel D. The lateral squeegee 12 may include two rollers 30A, 30B intended to be positioned on either side of the composite edge 3 ([Fig. 7] and [Fig. 8]). The two rollers 30A, 30B are configured to fold down and apply, according to a second predetermined force F2, the two longitudinal lateral areas 7 of the prepreg tape 2 onto the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3 after the longitudinal central area 6 of the prepreg tape 2 has been applied to the edge 4 of the composite edge 3.Roller 30A exerts a second predetermined force F2 against one of the two longitudinal lateral zones 7 of the prepreg tape 2 and one of the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3 which is opposed to the first predetermined force F2 exerted by roller 30B against the other of the two longitudinal lateral zones 7 of the prepreg tape 2 and against the other of the two surfaces. lateral 5 of the composite edge 3. Preferably, the absolute value of the second force F2 exerted by roller 30A is equal to the absolute value of the second force F2 applied by roller 30B. Furthermore, both rollers 30A and 30B are configured to roll against the longitudinal lateral areas 7 of the prepreg tape 2 applied to the lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3 when the application system 1 is moved in the direction of use D.

[0065] The second force F2 can be chosen according to the pressure required for the two longitudinal lateral zones 7 of the prepreg tape 2 to adhere to the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3, as well as the stickiness of the prepreg tape provided by the temperature of the composite edge 3 heated by the heating device.

[0066] Advantageously, the two rollers 30A, 30B are configured to rotate about a rotation axis 31A, 31B making an angle X between 0° and 10° with respect to a bisector 32 separating an angle Y between the rotation axes 31A, 31B of the two rollers 30A, 30B ([Fig. 7]). Advantageously, the angle X is equal to 7°. A non-zero angle X allows the longitudinal lateral zones 7 of the prepreg tape 2 to be guided so that they are folded down and then applied to the lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3.

[0067] By way of non-limiting example, the lateral scrimming device 12 comprises a two-bar mechanism 33 having a first bar Cl and a second bar C2. The two bars Cl, C2 are articulated to each other at their midpoint 34 about a rotation axis 35 perpendicular to the two bars Cl, C2. The rotation axis 35 is fixedly mounted to the elongated body 8. Each of the two bars Cl, C2 has a first end 36A, 36B and a second end 37A, 37B. Each of the two rollers 30A, 30B is arranged at the respective first end 36A, 36B of the two bars Cl, C2. The second end 37B of the first bar Cl has a first adjusting rod 38B perpendicular to the two bars Cl, C2. The second end 37A of the second bar C2 has a second adjusting rod 38A perpendicular to the two bars Cl, C2.The two-bar mechanism 33 further comprises a threaded rod 39 and a helical spring 40 coaxial and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the elongated body 8. The threaded rod 39 has a first end 41A and a second end 41B. The first end 41A of the threaded rod 39 is screwed into a tapped hole in the first adjusting rod 38B. The threaded rod 39 also passes through a smooth hole in the second adjusting rod 38A. The helical spring 40 is compressed between the second adjusting rod 38A and the second end 41B of the threaded rod 39. Screwing and unscrewing the threaded rod 39 in the tapped hole is capable of moving the second end 37B closer to and further away from the first bar Cl. and the second end 37A of the second bar C2. The helical spring 40 is capable of exerting a second compressive force FT2 tending to bring the second end 37B of the first bar Cl and the second end 37A of the second bar C2 closer together. The predetermined second force F2 exerted by the two rollers 30A, 30B to apply the two longitudinal lateral zones 7 of the prepreg tape 2 onto the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3 is a function of the second compressive force FT2 exerted by the helical spring 40. For example, the second end 41B of the threaded rod 39 includes a stop on which the second compressive force FT2 is exerted. This second compressive force FT2 therefore drives the threaded rod 39, which causes the second ends 37A, 37B of the two bars Cl, C2 to move closer together.This approach of the second ends 37A, 37B leads to a closer approach of the first ends 36A, 36B and consequently a closer approach of the two rollers 30A, 30B to each other. When the two rollers 30A and 30B bear against the two longitudinal lateral zones 7 of the prepreg tape 2 and against the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3, the approach of the second ends 37A, 37B to each other therefore results in an increase in the predetermined second force F2. Furthermore, the helical spring 40 allows for flexibility in the position of the rollers 30A, 30B, which makes it possible, on the one hand, to place the application system 1 on the edge of composite 3 by separating the rollers 30A and 30B and, on the other hand, to adapt the spacing between the two rollers 30A, 30B to the irregularities of the edge of composite 3.

[0068] The application system 1 may include a handle 47 ([Fig. 1]) intended to be grasped by a user. The user can thus grasp the handle 47 in order to manipulate and / or use the application system 1. The application system 1 may be an effector capable of being manipulated by a robot arm. For example, the robot arm may exert sufficient pressure on the application system 1 so that the prepreg tape 2 adheres sufficiently to the composite edge 3. Preferably, the robot may apply sufficient force so that the squeegee roller 2 exerts sufficient pressure on the central area 6 and the edge 4, so that the central area 6 of the prepreg tape 2 can adhere to the edge 4. The sufficient pressure may depend on the tackiness of the prepreg tape 2 generated by its contact with the composite edge 3 heated by the heating device.

[0069] In the case of a U-shaped stiffener, the prepreg tape 2 can be applied to the composite edge 3 after a protective layer 45 has been applied to the inner surface of the stiffener, as shown in [Fig. 3]. The prepreg tape 2 can be applied at least partially over the protective layer 45.

[0070] The invention also relates to a method of using the application system 1 ([Fig.9]).

[0071] The process comprises the following steps: - a step El of placing one end of the prepreg tape 2 supplied by the dispenser 10 onto the edge of the composite 3, - a step E2 of setting up the application system 1 on the prepreg tape placed on the composite edge 3 using the alignment device 9, - a step E3 of moving the application system 1 along the edge of composite 3.

[0072] The process comprises the following steps implemented during the E3 displacement step: - a supply step E4 implemented by the dispenser 10 to supply the prepreg tape 2, - a first step E6 of scrimming implemented by the central scrimming device 11 to apply to the edge 4 of the composite edge 3 the longitudinal central zone 6 of the prepreg tape 2 supplied by the dispenser 10, - a second E7 scrimming step implemented by the lateral scrimming device 12 to fold down and apply to the two lateral surfaces 5 of the composite edge 3 the two longitudinal lateral areas 7 of the prepreg tape 2 after the longitudinal central area 6 of the prepreg tape 2 has been applied to the edge 4 of the composite edge 3.

[0073] The process may further include a heating step E5 preceding the first scrimming step E6. The heating step E5 is carried out by the heating device, which may be attached to the fixing device 13, to heat a portion of the composite edge 3 before the central scrimming device 11 applies the longitudinal central area 6 of the prepreg tape 2 to the edge 4 of the composite edge 3.

Claims

1. Demands Prepreg tape application system (2) for covering a composite edge (3), the composite edge (3) comprising a slice (4) and two lateral surfaces (5) on either side of the slice (4), the prepreg tape (2) comprising a longitudinal central zone (6) and two longitudinal lateral zones (7) on either side of the longitudinal central zone (6), said system comprising: - an elongated body (8) with a longitudinal axis (A); - an alignment device (9) configured to maintain alignment of the elongated body (8) with respect to the composite edge (3) so that the longitudinal axis (A) of the elongated body (8) remains parallel to the composite edge (3) while the application system (1) is moved along the composite edge (3) in a direction of use (D) of the application system (1); - a prepreg tape (2) dispenser (10) configured to supply the prepreg tape (2) while the application system (1) is moved along the composite edge (3) according to the direction of use (D); - a central scrimping device (11) configured to apply to the edge (4) of the composite edge (3) the longitudinal central area (6) of the prepreg tape (2) supplied by the dispenser (10) while the application system (1) is moved along the composite edge (3) according to the direction of movement for use (D); - a lateral scrimping device (12) configured to fold down and apply to the two lateral surfaces (5) of the composite edge (3) the two longitudinal lateral areas (7) of the prepreg tape (2) after the longitudinal central area (6) of the prepreg tape (2) has been applied to the edge (4) of the composite edge (3) while the application system (1) is moved along the composite edge (3) in the direction of use (D), characterized in that the alignment device (9) comprises a first alignment unit (9A) and a second alignment unit (9B), the first alignment unit (9A) being mounted at a first longitudinal end (14) of the elongated body (8), the second alignment unit (9B) being mounted at a second longitudinal end (15) of the elongated body (8), the first longitudinal end (14) being located before the second longitudinal end (15), the first alignment unit (9A) and the second alignment unit (9B) each comprising two rollers (16A, 16B) configured to clamp the composite edge (3) between them, the two rollers (16A, 16B) being intended to press with a predetermined first force (Fl) against the two lateral surfaces (5) of the composite edge (3), the first alignment unit (9A) and the second alignment unit (9B) each comprising a pantograph mechanism (17) linking the two rollers (16A, 16B) to the elongated body (8), the pantograph mechanism (17) comprising an adjustment element (18),the adjustment element (18) being configured to adjust the first predetermined force (Fl) exerted by each of the two rollers (16A, 16B) against the two lateral surfaces (5) of the composite edge (3).

2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the application system (1) includes a fastening device (13) configured to fix a heating device for heating a portion of the composite edge (3) before the central scrimping device (11) applies the longitudinal central area (6) of the prepreg tape (2) onto the edge (4) of the composite edge (3).

3. The system according to claim 1, characterized in that the pantograph mechanism (17) comprises four bars (B1, B2, B3, B4) articulated together to form an articulated rhombus, the articulated rhombus having a first vertex (S1) opposite a second vertex (S2), the first vertex (S1) and the second vertex (S2) being aligned with the longitudinal axis (A) of the elongated body (8), the first vertex (S1) being fixed rigidly to the elongated body (8), the first vertex (S1) being formed of two bars (B1, B2) each having a clamping end (19, 20) extending beyond the first vertex (S1) and extending symmetrically from one to the other. relative to the other, the clamping end (19, 20) of each of said two bars (B1, B2) comprising one of the two rollers (16A, 16B) configured to clamp the composite edge (3) between them, the two rollers (16A, 16B) each having an axis of rotation (21A, 21B) perpendicular to the articulated rhombus, the second vertex (S2) being capable of making a displacement (M) parallel to the longitudinal axis (A) of the elongated body (8), the adjustment element (18) comprising a guide rod (22) perpendicular to the articulated rhombus, the adjustment element (18) comprising a slide (23) comprising a guide slot (24) parallel to the longitudinal axis (A) of the elongated body (8), the guide slot (24) receiving the guide rod (22) to guide and limit the displacement (M) of the second vertex (S2), the adjustment element (18) further comprising a threaded rod (25) and helical spring (26) coaxial and parallel to the longitudinal axis (A) of the elongated body (8),the threaded rod (25) having a first end screwed into a tapped hole in the guide rod (22), the screwing and unscrewing of the threaded rod (25) in the tapped hole being able to move the second vertex (S2) of the articulated rhombus, the helical spring (26) being compressed between the slide (23) and a second end (27) of the threaded rod (25), the helical spring (26) being able to exert a first compressive force (FT1) separating the second vertex (S2) from the first vertex (S2), the first predetermined force (F1) exerted by the two rollers (16A, 16B) against the two lateral surfaces (5) of the composite edge (3) being a function of the first compressive force (FT1) exerted by the helical spring (26).

4. System according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the central scrimping device (11) comprises a scrimping roller (29) intended to roll over the longitudinal central area (6) of the prepreg tape (2) supplied by the dispenser (10) in order to apply said longitudinal central area (6) to the edge (4) of the composite edge (3).

5. System according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the application system (1) further comprises a guide roller (28) for rolling on the edge (4) of the composite edge (3), the guide roller (28) being mounted at the front of the elongated body (8).

6. System according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the lateral scrimming device (12) is mounted on the elongated body (8) after the central scrimming device (11) in the direction of use movement (D), the lateral scrimming device (12) comprising two rollers (30A, 30B) intended to be placed on either side of the composite edge (3), the two rollers (30A, 30B) being configured to fold down and apply according to a second predetermined force (F2) the two longitudinal lateral areas (7) of the prepreg tape (2) onto the two lateral surfaces (5) of the composite edge (3) after the longitudinal central area (6) of the prepreg tape (2) has been applied onto the edge (4) of the composite edge (3).

7. System according to claim 6, characterized in that the two rollers (30A, 30B) are configured to rotate about an axis of rotation (31A, 31B) making an angle (X) between 0° and 10° with respect to a bisector (32) separating an angle (Y) between the axes of rotation (31A, 31B) of the two rollers (30A, 30B).

8. A system according to any one of claims 6 and 7, characterized in that the lateral scrimping device (12) comprises a two-bar mechanism (33) having a first bar (Cl) and a second bar (C2), the two bars (Cl, C2) being articulated to each other at their midpoint (34) about a rotation axis (35) perpendicular to the two bars (Cl, C2), the rotation axis (35) being mounted rigidly to the elongated body (8), each of the two bars (Cl, C2) having a first end (36A, 36B) and a second end (37A, 37B), each of the two rollers (30A, 30B) being arranged at the respective first end (36A, 36B) of the two bars (Cl, C2), the second end (37B) of the first bar (Cl) having a first adjusting rod (38B) perpendicular to the two bars (Cl, C2), the second end (37A) of the second bar (C2) comprising a second adjusting rod (38A) perpendicular to the two bars (Cl, C2),the two-bar mechanism (33) further comprising a threaded rod (39) and a helical spring (40) coaxial and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) of the elongated body (8), the threaded rod (39) comprising a first end (41A) and a second end (41B), the first end (41A) of the threaded rod (39) being screwed into a, tapped hole in the first adjusting rod (38B), the threaded rod (39) further passing through a smooth hole in the second adjusting rod (38A), the helical spring (40) being compressed between the second adjusting rod (38A) and the second end (41B) of the threaded rod (39), screwing and unscrewing the threaded rod (39) in the tapped hole being able to bring the second end (37B) of the first bar (C1) and the second end (37A) of the second bar (C2) closer together and further apart, the helical spring (40) being able to exert a second compressive force (FT2) tending to bring the second end (37B) of the first bar (C1) and the second end (37A) of the second bar (C2) closer together, the second predetermined force (F2) exerted by the two rollers (30A,30B) to apply the two longitudinal lateral zones (7) of the prepreg tape (2) onto the two lateral surfaces (5) of the composite edge (3) being a function of the second compressive force (FT2) exerted by the helical spring (40).

9. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the dispenser (10) comprises a first reel (B1) and a second reel (B2), the first reel (B1) being configured to supply the prepreg tape (2) and a protective film (42), both wound onto the first reel (B1), the protective film (42) being intended to protect the prepreg tape (2) when wound onto the first reel (B1), the second reel (B2) being configured to wind the protective film (42) which is detached from the prepreg tape (2) while the first reel (B1) supplies the prepreg tape (2), the second reel (B2) being driven in rotation by the first reel (B1) via a drive belt (43), a displacement of the elongated body (8) in the direction of travel (D) causing rotation of the first reel (Bl) to supply the prepreg tape (2),the rotation of the first reel (B1) causing a rotation of the second reel (B2) via the transmission belt (43) to wind the protective film (42).

10. Method of using an application system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - a step (E1) of placing one end of the prepreg tape (2) supplied by the dispenser (10) on the composite edge (3), - a step (E2) of placing the application system (1) on the prepreg tape placed on the composite edge (3) using the alignment device (9), - a step (E3) of moving the application system (1) along the composite edge (3);the process comprising the following steps implemented during the displacement step (E3): - a supply step (E4) implemented by the dispenser (10) to supply the prepreg tape (2), - a first smearing step (E6) implemented by the central smearing device (11) to apply the longitudinal central zone (6) of the prepreg tape (2) supplied by the dispenser (10) to the edge (4) of the composite edge (3), - a second smearing step (E7) implemented by the lateral smearing device (12) to fold down and apply the two longitudinal lateral zones (7) of the prepreg tape (2) to the two lateral surfaces (5) of the composite edge (3) after the longitudinal central zone (6) of the prepreg tape (2) has been applied to the edge (4) of the composite edge (3).

11. A method according to claim 10, characterized in that it further comprises a heating step (E5) preceding the first scrimming step (E6), the heating step (E5) being carried out by the heating device capable of being attached to the fixing device (13) to heat a portion of the composite edge (3) before the central scrimming device (11) applies the longitudinal central area (6) of the prepreg tape (2) onto the edge (4) of the composite edge (3).

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