Pneumatically actuated redirect surface
AssigneeNorth Cutting Systems, LLC
InventorWilliam J. Slyne
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The present invention is directed to a pneumatically actuated redirection surface guide tool for use in tape laying systems. In the laying of unidirectional, pre-impregnated carbon fiber tapes, for instance, a tape can be directed between a tape supply reel and a tape laying head through use of one or more of the disclosed guide tools. The surface of the guide tool includes small holes that allow for positive and negative air pressure to be applied to the surface to increase or decrease the friction between the tape that is passing over and being redirected by the surface.
Claims17
A pneumatically actuated redirect surface for use in steering and directing a tape web, the surface comprising:
- a guide tool comprising a curved substantially smooth surface, wherein the surface has perforations therein, and wherein the surface comprises a tangent contact portion;
- the guide tool further comprising a manifold therein, with the perforations in the surface in fluid communication with the manifold;
- and
- a moveable tool mount, wherein the mount carries the guide tool and is adapted to be movable,
- whereby the tool is movable and the entry and exit points of a tape web moving over the surface is able to be changed while a tape is in motion.
A method of steering and directing a tape web in its path of travel from a supply roll to a work surface comprising the steps of:
- providing a guide tool comprising a curved, substantially smooth surface, wherein the surface has perforations therein, and wherein the surface comprises a tangent contact portion;
- the guide tool further comprising a manifold therein, with the perforations in the surface in fluid communication with the manifold;
- providing an air pressure pump in fluid communication with the manifold, wherein the pump is adapted to provide positive air pressure to the manifold;
- providing a tape web;
- moving the tape web, and positioning the moving web over the surface of the guide tool;
- wherein the direction of travel of the moving web changes between an approach path toward the guide tool surface and a departure path from the guide tool surface;
- and
- activating the pump to deliver positive air pressure to the manifold,
- whereby air provided into the manifold and forced out of the perforations provides a lifting pressure between the guide tool surface and the tape web that reduces the friction otherwise caused by movement of the web over the surface.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.