Integrated Resin Trap for RTM Tooling
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Solution Overview
Problem
RTM methods face challenges with external resin traps leading to sealing problems, material waste, and increased complexity, which affects method reliability and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
An integrated resin trap within the tool eliminates the need for external resin traps and connection materials, incorporating a siphon-like transition region and a control unit to manage pressure, reducing the requirement for shutoff cocks and simplifying the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If an external resin trap is used to collect excess resin, then resin can be captured and reused, but sealing problems occur due to dirty seals and connection materials require frequent cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The resin trap is integrated directly into the tool as an internal component rather than being external. The transition region with siphon-like geometry merges the cavity and resin trap into a single integrated structure, eliminating the need for external connections, seals, and connection materials that require cleaning and maintenance.
2Ease of manufacture
If external connection materials such as hoses and clamps are used to connect the cavity to the resin trap, then resin transfer is enabled, but material consumption increases and cleaning expenditure rises
Solution Approach 1:
The cavity and resin trap are merged into a single integrated tool structure with an internal transition region. This eliminates the need for external hoses, clamps, and other connection materials, reducing both material consumption and cleaning requirements while maintaining functional connectivity for resin transfer.
3Loss of substance
If an external resin trap is used, then resin can be collected, but the system complexity increases due to additional components and cleaning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The resin trap functionality is merged into the tool itself as an internal component. The transition region with siphon-like geometry integrates the resin capture function directly into the tool structure, eliminating the need for separate external resin traps, connections, and associated cleaning systems, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
4Productivity
If external resin traps and connection materials are used, then resin transfer functionality is achieved, but cleaning time and manual intervention increase
Solution Approach 1:
The resin trap is merged into the tool as an internal component with a transition region that has self-cleaning characteristics. This integration eliminates the need for separate cleaning of external connections, hoses, and clamps, reducing cleaning time and manual intervention requirements while maintaining resin transfer functionality.
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 method reliability, reduces material consumption and cleaning needs, and simplifies the RTM process by eliminating external connections and components, making it more cost-effective and less prone to errors.
Implementation Method 1
the transition region is designed such that with it a connection between the cavity and the resin trap can be established
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for a resin transfer molding method comprises a cavity, a resin trap and a transition region, wherein the cavity is designed such that a component can be accommodated in it. Furthermore, the resin trap is integrated in the tool, and the transition region is designed such that with it a connection between the cavity and the resin trap can be established.