University of Delaware

James L Glancey

Suresh Advani

Justin Beech Alms

Keith Carlilse

Michael Dukes

Systems and methods for controlling permeability in vacuum infusion processes are disclosed. A system includes a tool surface, a flexible film, a preform, a magnetic field source, and a magnetic element. The flexible film has a periphery sealingly coupled to the tool surface to define a volume. The preform is disposed within the volume. The magnetic field source is configured to generate a magnetic field. The magnetic element is positioned to receive the magnetic field generate by the magnetic field source. The magnetic element is configured to move the flexible film away from the upper side of the tool surface under application of the magnetic field. A method includes generating a magnetic field with the magnetic field source and receiving the magnetic field with the magnetic element to move the flexible film away from the upper side of the tool surface, thereby increasing permeability of the preform.

Systems and methods for controlling permeability in vacuum infusion processes

Methods and apparatus for vacuum infusing resin into a fabric preform within a mold. The methods comprise increasing permeability in a selected region, such as by deploying a VIPR chamber in a location corresponding to the resin injection port corresponding to the resin flow front furthest from the mold vent or a location identified by predictive modeling as best to achieve a desired flow front geometry. Suitable apparatus comprise a VIPR chamber, an image detector for detecting resin flow fronts, a processor programmed to identify a desired location to deploy the VIPR chamber, and an automatic positioner for moving the VIPR chamber to the identified location.

Computer controlled flow manipulation for vacuum infusion processes

A vacuum-induced injection molding apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a tool surface having an injection port extending therethrough. A flexible film extends over and is sealingly coupled to the tool surface. The flexible film comprises an outer surface and an inner surface such that the flexible film inner surface and the tool surface define a volume. A vacuum chamber is sealingly coupled to the outer surface of the flexible film. A vacuum port is in fluid communication with the volume. A method of injection molding a polymer matrix composite is also disclosed.

Apparatus and method for preform relaxation and flow control in liquid composite molding processes

The invention herein provides an improved machine for mobile harvesting vegetables comprising a frame adapted to be connected to a tractor, and a collection bin mounted to the frame for collecting vegetables as they are harvested. The improvement comprises an automated control system for moving the vegetables relative to the frame in accordance with the position and amount of vegetables collected and for controlling the speed of such movement. Movement of the vegetables may be accomplished in a variety of ways, including moving a movably mounted collection bin or by moving an internal conveyor located in a collection bin.

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Blackbird, DE, United States of America

James L Glancey