18159298. METHODS FOR JOINING UNIDIRECTIONAL TAPES simplified abstract (TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA)
Contents
METHODS FOR JOINING UNIDIRECTIONAL TAPES
Organization Name
TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
Inventor(s)
Nobuya Kawamura of Seaside CA (US)
METHODS FOR JOINING UNIDIRECTIONAL TAPES - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18159298 titled 'METHODS FOR JOINING UNIDIRECTIONAL TAPES
The abstract describes a method for joining unidirectional tapes by placing them in a butt joint and fusing them with a prepreg.
- Unidirectional tapes are placed by abutting their ends at a butt joint.
- The tapes consist of resin material and fibers running in a specific direction.
- A prepreg, containing resin material and short fibers, is placed over the butt joint.
- Heat is applied to fuse the prepreg, integrating the short fibers into the matrix of the unidirectional tapes at the butt joint.
Potential Applications: - Aerospace industry for lightweight structural components - Automotive industry for high-performance parts - Sports equipment manufacturing for strong and durable products
Problems Solved: - Provides a strong and seamless joint for unidirectional tapes - Enhances the structural integrity of composite materials
Benefits: - Improved strength and durability of composite structures - Simplified and efficient method for joining unidirectional tapes - Cost-effective manufacturing process
Commercial Applications: Title: Advanced Composite Manufacturing Method for Aerospace Industry This technology can be used in the aerospace industry to produce lightweight and strong components, reducing fuel consumption and enhancing performance.
Questions about the technology: 1. How does this method compare to traditional methods of joining unidirectional tapes? - This method offers a more efficient and seamless way to join unidirectional tapes, improving the overall strength and durability of composite structures. 2. What are the specific advantages of using short fibers in the prepreg for joining unidirectional tapes? - Short fibers help reinforce the joint and enhance the bonding between the unidirectional tapes, resulting in a stronger and more reliable connection.
Original Abstract Submitted
A method for joining unidirectional tapes is provided. The method includes placing a plurality of unidirectional tapes by abutting without overlapping an end of one of the unidirectional tapes with an end of other one of the unidirectional tapes at a butt joint. The unidirectional tapes includes a resin material and a plurality of fibers running in a running direction. The method further includes placing a prepreg including a resin material and a plurality of short fibers over the butt joint to cover an area surrounding the butt joint such that the short fibers run in the running direction. The method further includes fusing the prepreg by applying heat such that the short fibers are fused into a matrix of the unidirectional tapes at the butt joint.
