18087047. PREPREG TAPE ASSEMBLY simplified abstract (GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY)
Contents
PREPREG TAPE ASSEMBLY
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Anthony Mark Thompson of Niskayuna NY (US)
PREPREG TAPE ASSEMBLY - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18087047 titled 'PREPREG TAPE ASSEMBLY
The abstract describes a prepreg tape assembly used for impregnating dry fiber tow to create composite components. The assembly includes a slurry reservoir, rollers, a take-up drum, and a metering device for the slurry.
- The prepreg tape assembly includes a bath with a slurry reservoir.
- It has a series of rollers in the bath for processing the dry fiber tow.
- A take-up drum is located outside the slurry reservoir for collecting the impregnated tow.
- A first metering device meters the slurry and has a tow passage with an inlet and outlet.
- The inlet of the tow passage is positioned over or within the slurry reservoir.
Potential Applications: - Manufacturing of composite components in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction. - Production of lightweight and high-strength materials for various applications.
Problems Solved: - Efficient impregnation of dry fiber tow with a slurry to create composite components. - Consistent and controlled metering of the slurry onto the tow.
Benefits: - Improved quality and performance of composite components. - Increased productivity and cost-effectiveness in manufacturing processes.
Commercial Applications: - Aerospace industry for aircraft components. - Automotive industry for lightweight vehicle parts. - Construction industry for structural elements.
Questions about the technology: 1. How does the prepreg tape assembly improve the manufacturing process of composite components? 2. What advantages does the use of a slurry reservoir and metering device offer in creating composite materials?
Original Abstract Submitted
A prepreg tape assembly for impregnating a dry fiber tow to make composite components. The prepreg tape assembly can include a bath defining a slurry reservoir, a series of rollers located in the bath, and a take-up drum located outside of the slurry reservoir. The prepreg tape assembly also includes a first metering device capable of metering slurry, where the first metering device has a tow passage. The tow passage includes an inlet and an outlet, where the inlet of the tow passage overlies or is located in the slurry reservoir.