System and method for producing a three-dimensional dry fiber preform

摘要

A preform forming machine (200) for producing a three-dimensional dry fiber preform (100) may include a forming block assembly (204) and a clamping plate assembly (250). The forming block assembly may have a forming table (222) and a forming block (206) and may be positionable in a series of forming block assemblies. The clamping plate assembly may have a clamping table (264) and a clamping plate (252) and may be positionable in a series of clamping plate assemblies arranged in opposing relation to the series of forming block assemblies. Each forming block may be configured to fold a ply stack (124) over onto itself to form a web (130) of a preform. Each clamping plate may be configured to clamp the ply stack to the forming table during the folding of the ply stack.