Semi-automated laser-guided mechanism to apply paste bead in bonding process for fabrication of wind turbine blades

An apparatus for applying adhesive to a composite structure comprising:

• a paste shoe, the paste shoe including:
• a planar top surface, the planar top surface having a nozzle disposed therein configured to receive a supply of adhesive, the supply of adhesive oriented at approximately 90° to the composite structure,
• at least two legs extending downwardly from the planar top surface to define an interior volume, each of the at least two legs in fluid communication with the top surface,
• at least one sensor disposed within the paste shoe, the sensor configured to detect when paste has completely filled the volume within the paste shoe;
• a transport mechanism disposed on each leg, the transport mechanism configured to engage a surface of the composite structure and move the paste shoe relative to the composite structure,
• wherein the adhesive is dispensed within the interior volume;
• and
• a force applicator, the force applicator configured to apply a force to the paste shoe;
• and
• wherein the adhesive is dispensed out of each of the at least two legs once a sufficient downward force of the force applicator is detected.