Modular head automated fabric laminating apparatus

摘要

An apparatus for laminating a fabric material to a part broadly comprises a cutting element, a heating system, a vertical pressure unit, and a compaction roller assembly. The cutting element may cut scrap material from the sides of the fabric material. The heating system may heat the fabric material after the material exits the vacuum conveyor assembly. The vertical pressure unit may apply a downward force on the compaction roller assembly, which may receive the fabric material and press the fabric material against a surface of the part. The compaction roller assembly may include a roller operable to have a variable curvature along its longitudinal axis and an actuating device operable to apply a variable torque to opposing ends of the roller to vary the curvature of the roller.

主权项

1. An apparatus for laminating a material to a part, the apparatus comprising:
a cutting element that cuts a scrap material from edges of the material on a vacuum conveyor assembly during operation of the apparatus; a compaction roller assembly including a roller with an adjustable curvature along its longitudinal axis that is selectively adjusted to be straight, curve inward, or curve outward by applying a variable torque at opposing ends of the roller to cause it to bend with respect to the compaction roller assembly, the compaction roller assembly that receives the material from the vacuum conveyor assembly and that presses the material against a surface of the part during operation of the apparatus; and a vertical pressure unit that applies a downward force to the compaction roller assembly during operation of the apparatus.