Fiber Application Head Tension Limiting for High-Speed Draping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fiber application machines with tension limiting systems compromise draping quality, particularly during high-speed operations like cutting and rerouting, due to insufficient tension control.
Innovation Solution
A tension limiting system is mounted on the moving part of the fiber application head, positioned upstream of the guidance system, ensuring low fiber tension near rerouting and cutting systems, with cylinders rotating faster than the fiber speed to maintain precise fiber positioning and reduce tension variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a tension limiting system is provided between fiber storage means and application head, then fiber inrush tension at application roller is limited, but remaining low tension compromises draping quality during high-speed operations
Solution Approach 1:
The tension limiting function is segmented into two distinct systems: a first tension limiting system located in the creel that limits inrush tension from storage means, and a second tension limiting system mounted on the moving part that provides additional tension control near the application point. This segmentation allows each system to address specific tension control needs without compromising overall draping quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The second tension limiting system is positioned upstream of the guidance system and cutting/rerouting operations, providing preliminary tension control before fibers undergo high-speed maneuvers. This preliminary action ensures fibers are properly tensioned before critical operations, preventing slippage and maintaining positioning precision during cutting and rerouting.
2Force
If tension limiting system is mounted on fixed part, then fiber tension is controlled, but positioning precision during high-speed cutting and rerouting is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The second tension limiting system is mounted on the moving part rather than the fixed part, allowing it to move with the application head during high-speed operations. This dynamic positioning maintains the tension limiting function's effectiveness relative to the fiber path, ensuring consistent tension control and positioning precision even during rapid head movements and fiber rerouting operations.
3Force
If cylinders rotate at peripheral speed greater than fiber feed speed, then fiber inrush tension is limited, but tension variations increase during high-speed operations
Solution Approach 1:
The second tension limiting system acts as an intermediary between the first tension limiting system and the fiber application point. It receives fibers that have already had inrush tension limited by the first system, and provides additional tension stabilization tailored to the specific needs of high-speed operations. This two-stage intermediary approach allows each system to optimize for its specific function without compromising overall tension stability.
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 configuration allows for precise fiber positioning and improved draping quality, especially at high speeds, minimizing slippage and ensuring optimal web draping with significant curvature, even during high-speed operations.
Implementation Method 1
This exerts a tensile force on the fibers coming from the storage means, thereby limiting the inrush tension of the fibers at the application roller
Implementation Method 2
the peripheral speeds of the cylinders are greater than the fiber feed speeds at the application roller. This exerts a tensile force on the fibers
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The present invention relates in particular to a fibre application machine comprising a fibre application head (2) comprising a fixed portion (21) and a movable portion (22) slidably mounted on the fixed portion and biased by at least one compacting cylinder (25). The movable portion comprises an application roller (23), and a guide system for guiding at least one fibre (Fl, F2) to the application roller in a guide plane (Pl, P2). The machine further comprises a tension-limiting system (4) comprising at least one cylinder (41-44) on which each fibre is able to be at least partially wound, and drive means (29) capable of rotating the cylinder. The tension-limiting system is mounted on the movable portion of the head, upstream of the guide system.