Patent ID: 7422647
Filing Date: 2008-09-09
Classification: B29C,B29L,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method for automated composite lay up on an interior mandrel surface of a tool having an axis of rotation, comprising steps of: supporting a mandrel on a bearing in contact with a circular ring surrounding said mandrel, wherein said mandrel has an outside mold surface on an inside of said mandrel, and wherein said circular ring is concentric with the axis of rotation; rotating the mandrel about the axis of rotation; supporting a plurality of material delivery heads from a gantry beam disposed to access the inside of said mandrel, wherein said plurality of material delivery heads are supported interior to said outside mold surface, and wherein said gantry beam provides for movement of said plurality of material delivery heads relative to said outside mold surface; and placing a composite fiber material inside said mandrel onto said outside mold surface simultaneously from said plurality of material delivery heads.