Method and apparatus for three dimensional braiding
AssigneeThe United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
InventorGary L. Farley
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Abstract
A machine for three-dimensional braiding of fibers is provided in which carrier members travel on a curved, segmented and movable braiding surface. The carrier members are capable of independent, self-propelled motion along the braiding surface. Carrier member position on the braiding surface is controlled and monitored by computer. Also disclosed is a yarn take-up device capable of maintaining tension in the braiding fiber.
Claims9
An apparatus for forming an article by intertwining a plurality of fiber strands, wherein said fibers intersect in a braiding zone where said article is being formed, comprising:
- (a) a three-dimensionally curved braiding surface which is segmented about one axis thereof, said segments formed by intersecting planes having said axis as their line of intersection with each segment spanning the entire diameter along said axis, whereby the segments are capable of movement about said axis through an arc of revolution;
- (b) fiber dispensers situated on the concave side of the segments of said braiding surface;
- and
- (c) means for moving the segments of said braiding surface through a desired arc of revolution.
An apparatus for forming an article by intertwining a plurality of fiber strands, wherein said fibers intersect in a braiding zone where said article is being formed, comprising:
- (a) a three-dimensionally curved braiding surface which is segmented about one axis thereof, said segments formed by intersecting planes having said axis as their line of intersection with each segment spanning the entire diameter along said axis, whereby the segments are capable of movement about said axis through an arc of revolution;
- (b) fiber strand dispensers situated on the concave side of said braiding segments;
- and
- (c) actuators for moving the segments of said braiding surface through a desired arc of revolution.
A method for forming an article by intertwining a plurality of fiber strands wherein said fibers intersect in a braiding zone where said article is being formed, comprising:
- (a) disposing a plurality of movable carrier members on a concave side of a three-dimensionally curved braiding surface, said braiding surface being segmented about one axis thereof and rotatable about said axis through an arc of revolution, said segments formed by intersecting planes having said axis as their line of intersection with each segment spanning the entire diameter along said axis;
- (b) rotating braiding surface segments as necessary to achieve a desired braid angle;
- (c) moving carrier members on said braiding surface to intertwine fiber strands in a desired braiding pattern.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.