Modular structure of a new feed-deposition head for a robotized filament winding cell

This work shows the modular structure of a new feed-deposition head for a robotized cell able to manufacture complex shape parts in composite material by means of the filament winding technology. The new feed-deposition head assembles, in a unique structure, the four critical subgroups or modules involved in roving winding: the main frame, the roving-guide system, the roving tensioner and the deposition system. Each component is deeply discussed in this paper in terms of geometry, i.e. shape, dimensions and tolerances, of interfaces with other modules, of constitutive material selection and of related manufacturing processes. The adopted solutions have allowed to increase both the filament winding efficiency and the composite part quality by controlling the process parameters, such as the roving tension, the deposition speed and the winding trajectory through a very compact and flexible frame, as proved by the results of some experimental tests. Moreover, the resulting head is easily adaptable to every robot or machine used to wind. Finally, the modular structure enables an easy maintenance and updating. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.