RTM Resin Sampling Valve for Inline Uncured Mix Ratio Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing RTM process, particularly in aerospace manufacturing, lacks the ability to efficiently extract uncured resin samples for analysis, especially with multi-component resins, leading to uncertainties in mixing ratios and resin properties due to indirect measurement methods.
Innovation Solution
A sample extraction apparatus with an attachable extraction valve and a sample vessel, allowing direct extraction of uncured resin during the RTM process, which includes a piston member to control resin flow and a drive unit for automated operation, enabling inline validation and analysis of resin properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If indirect measurement systems such as flowmeters are used to measure resin properties, then measurement can be performed, but measurement precision is reduced due to uncertainties
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts a small portion of the uncured resin from the main flow through an extraction valve during the RTM infiltration process. This extracted sample can then be analyzed directly for resin properties such as mixing ratio, eliminating the need for indirect measurement systems like flowmeters and providing precise, reliable measurements.
2Measurement precision
If uncured resin samples are extracted during the RTM process, then direct analysis of resin properties is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction valve is integrated into the existing RTM apparatus infrastructure, serving both as a flow control valve for the main resin injection process and as a sample extraction point. This multi-functionality approach enables direct resin analysis without adding significant device complexity, as the same valve structure serves dual purposes.
3Quantity of substance
If resin samples are extracted from heated parts of the RTM machine, then samples can be obtained, but the risk of curing the sample increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the resin sample from the heated injection system through a dedicated extraction valve and delivers it to a separate sample vessel that is not subjected to the same high temperatures. This physical separation takes the sample out of the harmful thermal environment before curing can occur, enabling safe sample analysis.
4Measurement precision
If manual preparation steps are required for sample extraction, then sample analysis can be performed, but productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction valve is pre-configured and positioned within the RTM apparatus to enable automatic sample extraction during the infiltration process. The valve can be actuated automatically at the appropriate time, eliminating the need for manual preparation steps and significantly improving productivity while maintaining the ability to perform precise resin analysis.
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 direct and automated extraction of uncured resin samples for analysis, reducing uncertainties in resin properties and facilitating precise measurement of mixing ratios, particularly for two-component resins, without the need for additional preparation steps.
Implementation Method 1
the piston member is movable such that the piston member selectively allows or blocks the uncured resin flow to the sample vessel
Implementation Method 2
the uncured resin can immediately cool down (or be cooled with a cooling device) and the curing process abruptly stops
Data Source
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AI summary
In order to allow a live-drawing of an uncured resin sample (42) during a resin transfer moulding process, the invention proposes a sample extraction apparatus (20) that is disposed on a resin transfer moulding apparatus (10). The extraction apparatus (20) is mounted at a location between a mixing head (18) and a moulding tool (12), in order to receive freshly mixed uncured resin (46). The mixed uncured resin (46) is transported through an extraction valve (24) to a sample vessel (34), where it can be protected from further curing. The uncured resin sample (42) can then be analysed with conventional methods, such as high-performance liquid chromatography in order to determine a mixing ratio or other properties of the injected resin.