Adjustable Draping Apparatus for Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Preforms
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing apparatus for producing fiber-reinforced plastic preforms lacks flexibility in adapting to different geometries, requiring cumbersome conversions for changes in profile radius, limiting the production of complex geometries, especially in aeronautical engineering.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable draping apparatus with pivotable mold core parts and electronic control allows for real-time adjustment of the cross-sectional deformation, enabling variable nominal profiles without reconfiguring the entire apparatus, including roller arrangements for precise shaping and stabilization of the fiber fabric.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the apparatus is configured for a specific radius of curvature, then the manufacturing precision for that geometry is improved, but the adaptability to different geometries deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The mold core is designed with adjustable components that can be dynamically reconfigured. Specifically, the mold core comprises a first mold core part and a second mold core part that can be adjusted relative to each other, allowing the radius of curvature to be changed without replacing the entire mold core. This dynamic adjustability resolves the contradiction by enabling the same apparatus to maintain high precision across multiple geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the mold core to adapt to different profile requirements. By adjusting the position and configuration of the mold core parts, different radii of curvature can be achieved. This parameter change approach allows the apparatus to maintain manufacturing precision while becoming adaptable to various geometries.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the apparatus is converted for different profile geometries, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity and conversion effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mold core is segmented into multiple adjustable parts (first mold core part and second mold core part) rather than being a single rigid structure. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of each part to achieve different geometries, simplifying the conversion process and reducing the complexity of reconfiguration compared to redesigning the entire mold core.
Solution Approach 2:
The mold core is designed as a universal component that can produce multiple different profile geometries through adjustment. The first and second mold core parts can be repositioned to create various radii of curvature and cross-sectional shapes, making the apparatus multi-functional and reducing the need for multiple specialized mold cores.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual production is used for complex geometries, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces manual mechanical shaping operations with an automated draping apparatus that uses controlled deformation of fiber-reinforced plastic semifinished products. The apparatus automates the complex geometric shaping process while maintaining precision through controlled transverse and longitudinal deformation, thereby increasing productivity without sacrificing manufacturing quality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the flexibility in producing preforms with varying cross-sectional profiles, allowing for rapid changeovers and the creation of complex geometries without extensive retooling, improving the efficiency and adaptability of the production process.
Implementation Method 1
a heating arrangement 8 which is positioned upstream of the transverse deformation arrangement 3 in terms of the feed movement and which serves for the activation of the laid fiber fabric 2, such that the laid fiber fabric 2 that has been deformed to form the nominal profile 5 is stabilized
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to an apparatus for the production of parisons from fiber-reinforced plastic, having a feed arrangement for the continuous feed of a laid fiber fabric and having a transverse deformation arrangement with a draping apparatus for the deformation of the fed laid fiber fabric to form a predefined nominal profile. The apparatus is distinguished by the fact that the draping apparatus is adjustable for a variation of a cross section of the nominal profile. The disclosure also relates to a corresponding method for the production of parisons from fiber-reinforced plastic.