Patent ID: 6439096
Filing Date: 2002-08-27
Classification: D04C,D10B

Abstract:
A machine for producing three-dimensional engineered fiber preforms comprising:at least one module including at least one module cell that is comprised of at least two horngears, at least two carrier drivers, and at least one rotary gripping fork, in mechanical connection to each other; each horngear having a symmetrical horngear cell with complementary sections for carrying each of the carrier drivers; each horngear connected to a horngear drive motor; each rotary gripping fork having an independent drive; each module cell having a compact configuration, which is defined by the symmetrical horngear cells matched with the carrier drivers to form a circular area, with a rotary gripping fork matched with and positioned in between the carrier drivers; each of the at least two carrier drivers include a carrier with a yam supply thereon; and a computer control system for operating the machine in a programmable, predetermined pattern of movement of the carrier drivers by the respective horngear and the rotary gripping fork; wherein activation of the at least one module selectively moves the carrier drivers individually and simultaneously across the at least one module by rotation of the homgears and independent rotation of the rotary gripping fork, for producing a complex shaped threedimensional braided fiber perform having a unitary, integral construction from a plurality of fibers.