Preshearing: The evolution of manual layup

M. Elkington, C. Ward, A. Chatzimichali, K. Potter

Research output: Chapter or section in a book/report/conference proceedingChapter in a published conference proceeding

3 Citations (SciVal)

Abstract

Hand layup is still widely used in the composites industry, yet it has changed little over the past few decades. This is the first attempt to study in detail the effects of modifying the layup process. An alternative two stage approach to layup is proposed, where the majority of the shear deformation is applied prior to plies contacting the tool. The new process is trialled by three participants on three separate layup tasks. Using video analysis to study the process, it was shown that the key tasks of manipulating the prepreg sheets around doubly curved features and creating in plane shear during layup were dramatically 'simplified'. This resulted in a large reduction in the use of specialist techniques, a significant time saving and a reduction in the likelihood of defect generation.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication16th European Conference on Composite Materials, ECCM 2014
PublisherEuropean Conference on Composite Materials, ECCM
ISBN (Electronic)9780000000002
Publication statusPublished - 22 Jun 2014
Event16th European Conference on Composite Materials, ECCM 2014 - Seville, UK United Kingdom
Duration: 22 Jun 201426 Jun 2014

Publication series

Name16th European Conference on Composite Materials, ECCM 2014

Conference

Conference16th European Conference on Composite Materials, ECCM 2014
Country/TerritoryUK United Kingdom
CitySeville
Period22/06/1426/06/14

Keywords

  • Automation
  • Ergonomics
  • Hand layup
  • Prepreg

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ceramics and Composites

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Preshearing: The evolution of manual layup'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this