Fiber Width Adjustment Device Using Conical Path Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) composite materials face challenges in easily adjusting the width of fiber sheets before or after resin impregnation, which affects the uniformity and quality of the final product.
Innovation Solution
A fiber width adjustment device and method that uses a feeder, width adjuster, heaters, and a control device to adjust the width of tape materials, including prepreg and dry tape, by changing the path's geometry and temperature, allowing for variable width adjustment without compromising the tape's quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If fiber bundle is opened thinly and uniformly using conventional methods, then manufacturing precision of fiber sheet width is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple rollers and path adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the guiding path (curvature radius, path width, inclination angle) to control fiber bundle spreading. By adjusting these path parameters instead of using multiple rollers, the device achieves width uniformity while reducing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical roller-based spreading system with a guiding path system that uses geometric constraints and friction. This substitution simplifies the mechanical structure while maintaining control over fiber bundle width
2Adaptability or versatility
If fiber sheet width is adjusted after impregnation, then adaptability to different product requirements is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to resin interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs width adjustment before resin impregnation, when the fiber bundle is still in a controllable state. This preliminary action ensures precise width control while maintaining adaptability, as the adjusted width can be tailored to specific product requirements without resin interference
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple adjustment mechanisms are added to achieve precise width control, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a single guiding path with adjustable geometric parameters (such as path width or inclination angle) to control fiber bundle width. This approach achieves precise width control while maintaining operational simplicity, as only one parameter needs to be adjusted rather than coordinating multiple mechanisms
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
Enables easy and precise adjustment of fiber sheet width, improving the laminating process and allowing for the production of composite materials with complex shapes and reduced clearance gaps, enhancing the quality and versatility of FRP products.
Implementation Method 1
width adjuster, heaters, and a control device to adjust the width of tape materials, including prepreg and dry tape, by changing the path's geometry and temperature
Data Source
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AI summary
According to one embodiment, a fiber width adjustment device (1) includes: a feeder (3 ) and an adjuster (4). The feeder feeds a tape material in a length direction of the tape material. The tape material consists of fibers for a fiber reinforced resin after or before the fibers are impregnated with a resin. The adjuster has a path (13) for the tape material. The path is formed by at least a bottom and a pair of wall surfaces. The interval of the wall surfaces decreased gradually. The width of the tape material which passed the path is changed by adjusting a part of the path. The tape material passes through the part of the path while contacting with the bottom and the wall surfaces.