Fiber Placement Scrap Roller Assembly for Automatic Tape Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Efficient removal of scrap segments from fiber placement machines is challenging, as they are typically handled manually, slowing down the composite workpiece formation process.
Innovation Solution
A scrap collection assembly with pivotable rollers that engage opposite sides of the scrap piece, automatically pulling it into a collection bin, eliminating the need for manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual removal of scrap segments is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scrap collection assembly is self-operating, with rollers that automatically engage, grasp, and pull scrap segments from the fiber placement head without requiring manual intervention. The system serves itself by continuously removing scrap during the composite workpiece formation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller assembly acts as an intermediary mechanism between the scrap segment and the collection bin, facilitating automatic transfer and removal of scrap material through mechanical engagement and transport.
2Productivity
If automated scrap removal is implemented, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scrap collection assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: engagement rollers, pivot mechanisms, and collection bin, allowing independent optimization of each component while maintaining overall system efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The roller assemblies are pivotably mounted, allowing them to dynamically adjust their position and engagement force based on the presence and position of scrap segments, enabling adaptive automatic removal without complex control systems.
3Loss of time
If manual scrap handling is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The roller assemblies continuously engage and remove scrap segments as they are generated during fiber placement operations, eliminating idle time and maintaining continuous productive action without interrupting the composite workpiece formation process.
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
Automated scrap removal enhances the efficiency of composite workpiece formation by reducing human effort and streamlining the process.
Implementation Method 1
a first roller assembly, including a roller configured to engage one side of a scrap piece of composite tape... a second roller assembly, including another roller configured to engage an opposite side of the scrap piece of composite tape... such that the rollers move to engage opposite sides of the scrap piece, pull the scrap piece from a fiber placement machine
Data Source
AI summary
A scrap collection assembly for use with a fiber placement machine, including a scrap bin configured to receive scrap pieces of composite tape; a first roller assembly, including a roller configured to engage one side of a scrap piece of composite tape, coupled to the scrap bin; a second roller assembly, including another roller configured to engage an opposite side of the scrap piece of composite tape, coupled to the scrap bin, such that the rollers move to engage opposite sides of the scrap piece, pull the scrap piece from a fiber placement machine, and deposit the scrap piece in the scrap bin.