Advanced technology tape laying for affordable manufacturing of large composite structures

摘要

Advanced composite materials were introduced in a unidirectional tape form in the early 1960's. A few years later, automated tape layers were conceived as a means to automate the process for laying up this new material form. The original versions of automated tape layers were homebuilt by aerospace companies in collaboration with material suppliers. The first computer numerical controlled (CNC) gantry tape layer was developed under an Air Force Materials Lab (AFML) program by General Dynamics and Conrac Corporation. From this origin, automated tape layer technology was developed to become the most widely used automated process for fabrication of large composite structures. Current tape layer technology is significantly improved over the original versions and offer more flexibility in process capabilities required for a wider variety of aerospace components. Aerospace industry tape laying applications are currently achieving impressive material lay up rates that help reduce the manufacturing cost of large composite structures. As the percentage of composite components on newer aircraft increases, new and innovative applications for tape layers are being defined. This paper includes information on current tape layer technology and examples of current tape layer production parts.