Flexible Track Assembly with Dynamic Guides
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complex and time-consuming process of forming laminates into complex shapes in composite material fabrication requires enhanced systems for efficient delivery and formation, as existing methods struggle with applying forces from various angles while preventing laminate tearing.
Innovation Solution
A flexible track assembly system that can deflect, reposition, rotate, and extend in response to forces applied by the forming device, utilizing retractors to maintain position and return to a resting state, facilitating efficient laminate delivery and reducing operator effort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the track is made rigid to maintain position during forming, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the track cannot deflect or extend in response to forming forces
Solution Approach 1:
The track assembly transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system where portions can move relative to each other. The guide enables controlled movement between first and second portions of track in response to forming forces, allowing the track to adapt its configuration while maintaining functional positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The track is divided into separate first and second portions that can move independently relative to each other within the guide. This segmentation allows each portion to respond to forces differently, with the retraction line controlling the relative positioning to maintain accuracy while enabling flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the track is made flexible to deflect during forming, then adaptability is improved, but positioning accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The retraction line acts as an intermediary mechanism between the forming forces and the track portions. It mediates the interaction by controlling the relative movement between first and second portions, ensuring that flexibility is provided while positioning accuracy is maintained through active control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the track by allowing it to transition between different configurations (extended and retracted states). The retraction line adjusts the relative position of track portions dynamically, changing the track's effective length and configuration in response to forming conditions.
3Ease of operation
If the track extends to accommodate forming forces, then ease of operation is improved, but the complexity of the track system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The track assembly provides self-service by automatically responding to forming forces through the extension and retraction mechanism. The retraction line and guide work together to enable the track to self-adjust its configuration in response to forces applied during forming, reducing the need for complex external control systems.
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
The system enables efficient and reliable formation of laminates into complex shapes by dynamically adapting to forces applied during the forming process, reducing stress on the track and operator effort, while ensuring accurate and efficient delivery to the forming device.
Implementation Method 1
a retraction line that applies a contracting force that biases the end of the second portion towards contact with the end of the first portion, the retraction line being extendable to enable the second portion to separate from the first portion
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for controlling flexible tracks. One embodiment is a system for conveying plies of laminate to a forming device. The system includes a flexible track assembly comprising a first portion of track and a second portion of track, each of the portions defining a groove dimensioned to receive a slider that transports a ply, the second portion arranged to transport the ply into the forming device. The track assembly also includes a guide in which ends of the portions are disposed. The system further includes a retraction line that applies a contracting force that biases the end of the second portion towards contact with the end of the first portion, the retraction line being extendable to enable the second portion to separate from the first portion, thereby accommodating extension of the track assembly in response to forces applied by the forming device during forming.