Automated Composites Manufacturing

This book explains technologies for emergent robotic and computer-controlled fabrication of CFRP, woven, and other types of composite materials. Information is provided on how lay-up, heating, draping, stamp forming, braiding and weaving are carried out by specially designed equipment and how these processes are controlled with real-time data from sensors. Details are given on robotic process control, flaw detection, and quality engineering, as well as on new types of laminates and composites made possible by advanced automation. Technical information is relevant to designing and retrofitting composite manufacturing equipment. Research in the text was originally presented at a Concordia University symposium and is based on work done at German, Dutch, British, and Canadian universities and R&D centers. Some of the highlights of the book include: Robotic strategies for fiber placement, heating systems, tape lay-up, vacuum bagging and more; Real-time sensing techniques for process control and inspection; Equipment design for AFP, 3-D braiding and other machinery.