Flow sensing and control strategies to address race-tracking disturbances in resin transfer molding—part II: automation and validation

摘要: Abstract Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) is an advanced processing technology for composites manufacturing. In this process, the fiber preform placed in a closed mold and resin injected into to saturate preform. After cures, opened net shape composite part removed. RTM capable of making complex high quality parts fairly short cycle times. However, by introducing more complexity part, one also introduces higher probability disturbances, such as race tracking along edges, molding system increases risk failure. Part-I [Hsiao KT, Advani SG. Flow sensing control strategies address race-tracking disturbances transfer molding—Part I: design algorithm development. Composites Part A: Appl Sci Manuf 2004;35(10):1149–59] outlined methodology using process models simulations with flow disturbances. It was demonstrated virtual environment that can increase success rate significantly selectively placing sensors identify location disturbance strategically opening closing auxiliary gates steer impregnate all fibers. part-II, automated designed implement on-line strategy part-I demonstrated. Once completed delineated part-I, results be seamlessly interfaced manufacturing platform communicate injection vent valves on experimental platform. Thus, streamlines feedback from stage automation stage. An case study presented validate use model based demonstrate how it lends itself process.