Optical aid for placing composite material (prepregs) in a mould

Date
2018-05-31
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Southern African Institute for Industrial Engineering
Abstract
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Increased industrial use of composite materials for manufacturing strong lightweight components stimulates endeavours for more efficient assembly methods. This study attempted to find an optimal method to provide optical aid for the placement of pre-impregnated reinforcing fabric (prepregs). A novel approach to optical assistance for the placement of prepregs was designed to be straightforward and affordable. The developed system meets industry standards for accuracy, and provides the solution at a cost many times less than existing solutions. The findings allow companies in the composite material industry to eliminate prepreg layup errors at an affordable price.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: ’n Toename in die gebruik van saamgestelde materiale vir vervaardiging van sterk, liggewig komponente stimuleer pogings vir meer effektiewe samestellingsmetodes. Die doel van hierdie studie was om ’n optimale metode te vind vir die optiese ondersteuning in die plasing van vooraf geïmpregneerde materiaal. ’n Nuwe benadering vir optiese ondersteuning vir die plasing van vooraf geïmpregneerde materiaal is ontwerp om bekostigbaar en eenvoudig te wees. Die ontwikkelde benadering voldoen aan die industrie se standaarde vir akkuraatheid, en bied die oplossing teen ’n prys wat aansienlik minder is as bestaande oplossings. Die bevindinge bied besighede in die saamgestelde materiaal industrie met ’n bekostigbare oplossing om vooraf impregnering plasing foute te elimineer.
Description
CITATION: Van Der Westhuizen, J. & Schreve, K. 2018. Optical aid for placing composite material (prepregs) in a mould. South African Journal of Industrial Engineering, 29(1):35-48, doi:10.7166/29-1-1612.
The original publication is available at http://sajie.journals.ac.za
Keywords
Composite materials, Reinforced solids, Fiber-reinforced composites, Manufacturing engineering
Citation
Van Der Westhuizen, J. & Schreve, K. 2018. Optical aid for placing composite material (prepregs) in a mould. South African Journal of Industrial Engineering, 29(1):35-48, doi:10.7166/29-1-1612