Device for cutting to size and handling a substantially extensive blank from a CFK semi-finished product and method

A method for cutting and lifting a blank out of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) semi-finished product by a device, comprising:

• depositing a substantially planar CFRP semi-finished product onto a cutting table,
• cutting a blank which has a predetermined peripheral contour out of the CFRP semi-finished product,
• lowering a vacuum effector for drawing up the blank by suction and depositing it, at least one blank electrode contacting the blank and at least one peripheral electrode contacting a separated or separate peripheral portion of the CFRP semi-finished product,
• raising the blank by the vacuum effector above a measuring height, and
• measuring a current flowing between the at least two electrodes by a measuring means, a measurement of the current of more than 0 mA indicating an incomplete separation of the blank from the CFRP semi-finished product;
• wherein the current is increased for a short time to a maximum value upon the blank reaching the measuring height and when the current has a measured value of more than 0 mA, to produce a complete separation between the blank and the CFRP semi-finished product by the melting of at least one carbon fibre bridge connecting the blank with the CFRP semi-finished product;
• positioning the completely separated blank;
• and
• delivering the completely separated blank to a mould in an Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM) process.