Abstract: A system and method for incrementally forming a workpiece. A first manipulator is configured to move a first tool in multiple directions along a first surface of a workpiece. A second manipulator is configured to move a second tool in multiple directions along a second surface of the workpiece. The first and second tools move along first and second predetermined paths of motion and exert force to form the workpiece.

Abstract: A system and method for incrementally forming a workpiece. A first manipulator is configured to move a first tool in multiple directions along a first surface of a workpiece. A second manipulator is configured to move a second tool in multiple directions along a second surface of the workpiece. The first and second tools move along first and second predetermined paths of motion and exert force to form the workpiece.

Abstract: A SMC lamination line is disclosed that has an upper carrier film and a lower carrier film with oriented chopped fibers being deposited between the carrier films. Resin paste or adhesive is provided to retain oriented fibers on the lower carrier film. A guide roller guides the carrier film in close proximity to an in-feed conveyor that feeds oriented chopped fiber unto the lower carrier film. The guide roller is preferably less than the diameter of the end roller of the feed conveyor. The guide roller is also preferably within the arc of movement of the ends of the oriented chopped fibers to ensure a smooth and non-disruptive transfer of the oriented chopped fibers to the lower carrier film.

Abstract: Methods for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. Minimum contact eyelets reduce friction in the supply provide chopped reinforcing materials to both of said first and second mold members, and spraying said chopped reinforcing materials into both of said first and second mold members.

Abstract: The present invention is a disassembly apparatus and method for disassembling a workpiece having at least two layers joined together by welding or other bonding processes at bonding points. The method includes the steps of securing the workpiece into a fixture to prevent movement of one of the layers. The apparatus includes a sonotrode and a holding device. The method further includes moving the sonotrode to contact the workpiece to apply a predetermined amount of contact pressure to the workpiece. The sonotrode in contact with the layer on a side opposite the anvil is then vibrated at a predetermined frequency until the layers become disassembled. An apparatus for performing the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and systems for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. Minimum contact eyelets reduce friction in the supply system for string reinforcing materials. Also, preforms of various configurations and thicknesses can be produced.

Abstract: The present invention is a disassembly apparatus and method for disassembling a workpiece having at least two layers joined together by welding or other bonding processes at bonding points. The method includes the steps of securing the workpiece into a fixture to prevent movement of one of the layers. The apparatus includes a sonotrode and a holding device. The method further includes moving the sonotrode to contact the workpiece to apply a predetermined amount of contact pressure to the workpiece. The sonotrode in contact with the layer on a side opposite the anvil is then vibrated at a predetermined frequency until the layers become disassembled. An apparatus for performing the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: System for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. The air flows for the manufacturing stations are optimized by providing a separate air system for each cell and providing seals between the net-edge blocks and the mold portions.

Abstract: Systems for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. Minimum contact eyelets reduce friction in the supply system for string reinforcing materials.

Abstract: Systems for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. The robotic application system allows use of a single robot in a multiple cell system, and provides offline programming of the robotic routine. The robot moves between the cells on a track system.

Abstract: Methods and systems for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. The robotic application system allows use of a single robot in a multiple cell system, and provides offline programming of the robotic routine.

Abstract: Methods and systems for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. Minimum contact eyelets reduce friction in the supply system for string reinforcing materials. Also, preforms of various configurations and thicknesses can be produced.

Abstract: Methods and systems for the manufacture of reinforcing preforms for structural composite products. The air flows for the manufacturing stations are optimized by providing a separate air system for each cell and providing seals between the net-edge blocks and the mold portions. An adjustable valve in the air system to the material applicator (chopper-gun) allows use of different materials and manufacture of preforms having different thickness and configurations.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a fiber reinforced article. A first fiber reinforcing layer is impregnated with an initiator. A second fiber reinforcing layer is impregnated with a cyclic resin. The first and second reinforcing layers are brought into contact with one another. Heat is applied to the first and second reinforcing layers and causing the initiator to react with the cyclic resin. The initiator causes the ring-like structure on the cyclic resin to open. The open rings polymerize, crystallize and often cross-link with one another. The polymerization and cross-linking reaction forms a solid polymer about the first and second reinforcement layers. The polymer solidifies and forms an integral fiber reinforced article.

Abstract: A method of eliminating scrubbing noise between metal to metal (or metal to ceramic) contact members that experience articulating swiveling interengagement at high force levels in excess of 5,000 psi. The method comprises: (a) preparing the interface to present at least one fresh mechanically adherable stiff surface; (b) thermally spraying a top coating thereonto consisting of at least one of (i) a self-lubricating metal, ceramic material or metal alloy, and (ii) a compliant metal; and (c) placing the coating interface into service to subject it to repeating articulating swiveling contact that functions to microweld the coating to the surface under normal operating conditions.