Patent ID: 6131973
Filing Date: 2000-10-17
Classification: B25J,B65G

Abstract:
A transfer foot for a vacuum transfer system, the transfer foot operative for performing pickup and placement of resin preimpregnated composite plies, the transfer foot comprising:a support cage having an upper end, a lower end, and a plurality of spaced posts extending substantially between the upper and lower ends, the spacing between the posts permitting flow of vacuum pressure through the support cage, the lower end having an opening formed through it;a pickup foot extending outward from a lower end of the support cage, the pickup foot having a channel formed through it which communicates with the opening formed in the lower end of the support cage, the pickup foot having a tip end adapted to contact a resin preimpregnated composite ply; anda valve attached to the support cage and having a valve member located adjacent to the opening formed in the lower end of the support cage, the valve member being movable between a closed position wherein the valve member substantially inhibits flow through the opening and an open position wherein the valve member permits flow through the opening.