摘要 |
<p>An automated tape head assembly for a multiple axis tape laying machine includes a tape supply reel and a tape compaction roller, and a chute. Tape passes from the supply reel, through the chute, to the tape compaction roller. The tape path and at least a portion of the chute are maintained substantially at a zero Gaussian curvature. The tape path and chute are curved to define a compliance loop that results from a substantially or partially unrestrained curved path between the supply reel and the compaction roller. This structure allows the compaction roller to shift laterally and vertically with respect to the supply reel while the supply reel is in a fixed position with respect to the tape head assembly generally. This structure also allows the compaction roller to roll, steer, and follow the fiber tape's natural path, all with significant independence from the supply reel.</p> |