Tow Placement Timing Offset Control for Accurate Tow End Layup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for verifying tow end placement in composite laminate layup are time-consuming and less accurate, often requiring manual imaging and measurement, leading to longer interruptions and potential inaccuracies in the layup process.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a tow placement system, measurement system, and control system to measure and adjust timing offsets based on latency errors, ensuring that tow ends are placed within selected tolerances by identifying start and stop latencies and adjusting timing offsets as needed, thereby eliminating the need for manual verification and reducing processing time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual imaging and measurement methods are used to verify tow end placement, then measurement can be performed, but the process is time-consuming and less accurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated optical imaging system. The system uses a camera to capture images of tow ends and automatically processes these images to determine placement accuracy, eliminating the need for manual measurement while improving both speed and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (image) of the physical tow end placement and processes this copy computationally. By working with image data rather than physical measurements, the system achieves rapid, accurate verification without manual intervention.
2Reliability
If manual verification of tow end placement is performed after each layer, then placement accuracy can be checked, but it causes longer interruptions during the layup process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual verification processes with an automated imaging and computational system that operates rapidly, minimizing interruptions to the layup process while maintaining reliable verification of tow placement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous verification during the layup process by using rapid automated imaging and processing. The system can verify placement accuracy without significant interruptions, maintaining the continuity of the manufacturing process while ensuring quality control.
3Manufacturing precision
If timing offsets are adjusted based on latency errors, then tow placement accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the actual tow end positions are measured, compared to expected positions, and used to adjust timing offsets for improved accuracy. The system measures latency errors and automatically compensates by adjusting the timing of tow placement operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adjusts the timing parameters (offsets) of the tow placement system based on measured latency errors. By dynamically changing these temporal parameters, the system compensates for variations in the placement process and maintains high precision without requiring complex mechanical modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for managing tow end placement. A tow is laid up over a tuning surface. A first position of a first tow end of the tow and a second position of a second tow end of the tow are measured. A first error between the first position of the first tow end and an expected position for the first tow end, and a second error between the second position of the second tow end and an expected position for the second tow end, are computed. A determination is made as to whether at least one of the first error or the second error is outside of selected tolerances. A start timing offset of a tow placement system is adjusted if the first error is outside of selected tolerances and a stop timing offset of the tow placement system is adjusted if the second error is outside of selected tolerances.