Automated Fiber Placement Unit

The 12 individual tape configuration enables the layup of 3-dimensional structures from preprogrammed CATIA modeling. The geometry is precisely defined in regard to the outer contours and cutouts while tapes are cut with twelve individually controlled pneumatic cutters. The NC program is generated automatically before the geometry information is exported from the CATIA workstation to the machine control. Negative or positive moulds up to a size of 8 m * 1.6 m can be used.

View of the Automated Fiber Placement Machine

In the GROTHERM project the thermoset head is replaced with a single-tape thermoplastic laying head where the material no longer has to be cooled. This tool will be used for the production of large parts. An additional goal is the reduction of the number of necessary work steps compared to thermoset materials.