DE102012109222B4 - Device and method for automated connection of two components in a joint area - Google Patents

Abstract

Device (1) for automatically connecting two components (25, 27) in a joining region (29), comprising a rotating winding device with a rotor (3), in particular a circular segment, with a guide unit (19) which preferably has one or more yarn guide rollers (n) ( 21) and / or ring thread eye (s) for guiding a fabric tape (23) along winding paths (26) and for producing a wound node connection (30) in the joining region (29), the one fabric tape supply reel (13) having, C -shaped and provided with a radial opening (3b) rotor (3) in a C-shaped, circular segment-like, provided with a with the opening (3b) in overlapping opening (5b) provided in a stator (5) in a rotational direction (RR ) is movably mounted so that it can bridge the opening (5b) of the circular segment (5a) of the stator (5), and wherein the stator (5) cooperates with a controller so that its position and esp in particular its angular position with respect to the two components (25, 27) in dependence on predetermined winding paths (26) is determined.

Description

The invention relates to a device for automated connection of two components according to claim 1 and to a method for connecting two components in a joining region according to claim 14.

Fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP), such as glass or carbon fiber reinforced resin systems, have significant advantages in terms of their weight-related strength and rigidity. They are therefore not only used in the field of aircraft, passenger car or bicycle construction, but can equally be used in ship construction or in the construction of any other components, especially where lightweight frame structures are needed. The joint or joint between two or more FRP components regularly represents a weak point. For the production of lightweight structures, such. B. of frame structures, the FRP components often have a curved profile, in particular a tubular profile. In bicycle frame construction, for example, pipes are butt-joined to one another and manually laminated to improve the visual appearance of the joint with a fiber layer. In order to achieve a higher strength of such joints, the pipes must either be provided with an additional node element or in monocoque construction, i. H. without joints at the same time as high tooling costs. In the case of fiber composites based on thermoset systems such as resin, thermal joining processes are fundamentally ruled out. For this reason, metal-based technologies usually prevail to connect two or more FRP components. An example of this are classic rivet connectors, screws, inlays or adhesive bonds. Gluing shows large variations in its strength values and is therefore unsuitable as a secure connection method of FRP components. Therefore, an adhesive bond of FRP components so far comes only in combination with at least one other joining method such. As screws or rivets are used. In these joining methods, however, the fiber structure of the FRP components to be joined is always destroyed. However, the problems of connecting two components do not only occur when using fiber-reinforced plastics. Rather, weak points also arise in the connection of metal profiles, in particular aluminum profiles. When closing a closed frame structure by welding, for example, it is not possible to produce the weld in one go. Rather, it must be suspended and "reversed" at least once, resulting in a vulnerability in the framework.

Overall, joints, especially in FRP components either form a structural weak point or they can only be realized by a correspondingly high effort with sufficient strength and rigidity. In the latter variant, the compound is usually only by a - the lightweight construction reluctant - correspondingly heavy thickening of the joint to realize.

From the prior art, an automated or semi-automated connection of such components, especially FRP components is not known.

The DE 10 2008 022 337 A1 shows and describes a partially automated method and a corresponding device for wrapping cables or cable strands equipped with fasteners tapes.

In the DE 296 04 730 U1 discloses a constructed of metal tubes bicycle frame, in which the joints are reinforced on the frame with a sheath made of fiber-reinforced plastic in the form of sleeves.

From the DE 1 914 895 A it is known pipe fittings for z. B. pressure lines to T-shaped joints for corrosion protection with resin impregnated threads in a criss-cross arrangement to wrap.

The documents US 2002/0054968 A1 . US 2010/0052203 A1 and US 2005/0037195 A1 deal with the manufacture or joining of axial pipes made of FRP.

The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a device and a method for connecting at least two components and a resulting connection of these components, which has a very high strength and rigidity at the same time low weight.

To achieve the above object, a device for automatically connecting two or more components in their joining region with the features of claim 1 is proposed. The device has a rotating winding device, in particular in the form of a circular segment-like rotor, which is designed to guide a fabric belt along winding paths and to produce a wound node connection in the joining region of the two components.

An essential point of the invention resides in the fact that the device according to the invention is designed to advantageously use the winding (eg, fiber wound) of a fabric band known per se for other purposes as a joining method for joining two or more components, in particular FRPs. components perform. This is brought about by the fact that the rotating winding device can rotate about the joining region of two components to be connected and thereby guide or wind a fabric tape along winding paths such that a wound node connection is produced in the joining region of the two components. Load tests of the joints provided with the wound node connection have shown that the fiber winding is ideal as joining technology and joints with very high strength and low weight completely non-destructive - ie without weakening at the joints by mechanical processing - can be produced. Due to the preferred circular segment-like design of a rotor, it is also possible to connect two (FVK) components with each other without the generation of mechanical weak points that are part of a closed frame structure. This is particularly advantageous for the automotive industry, where the use of lightweight structures as a frame (space frame) is becoming increasingly important. The device according to the invention is thus advantageously able to carry out a fiber winding process as a joining method for the non-destructive connection of two components. By appropriate control and regulating devices, the wound node connection produced by the device can be adapted, inter alia, in its thickness, clamping force, position and area distribution, so that in particular in the region of elevated voltages of the joint an optimized node connection can be realized. The device can be used in this way for almost any type of components, in particular with regard to their dimensioning, location and load application. Overall, the wrapping of the two components allows a positive connection with very high strength and stiffness. Furthermore, this compound is easy to calculate by their simple voltage curve and adjustable by varying the winding parameters within certain limits. The winding parameters are, in particular, the pretensioning force of the fabric tape, the degree of impregnation of the fabric tape and the laying path, ie the winding path of the fabric tape on the components in their joining region. The mechanical properties of the joint connection are adjustable and flexibly adaptable to various components.

Preferably, the circular segment-like rotor is movably mounted in a circular segment-like or C-shaped stator in a rotational direction. Due to the circular segment shape of both the rotor and the stator, it is possible to produce with the device according to the invention wound node connections in closed frame structures. In order for the device to be able to engage in a frame structure, the rotor and the stator must be positioned in an initial state relative to one another such that the openings of the circle segments are aligned with one another. In this position, a joining region of two or more components in the effective range of the device can be positioned. In order to remove the device from the joining region or to remove the joining region from the device, the rotor and the stator must again assume the aligned position of the circular segment openings. To produce the wound node connection in the joining region, the rotor is preferably designed and arranged such that it can rotate in the stator about an axis of rotation. In order to ensure a rotational movement of the rotor in the stator, the rotor is preferably designed so that it can bridge an opening of the circular segment of the stator. Consequently, the circular segment forming the rotor should have a circular arc which is longer than the circular arc of the circular segment opening of the stator.

On its inner side facing the axis of rotation, the rotor may have a preferably exchangeable woven fabric tape supply reel on which the fabric tape to be unwound is wound up. Starting from the supply reel, the fabric tape is preferably guided over a likewise arranged on the inside of the rotor clamping unit for tensioning the fabric tape. By the clamping unit is ensured that a tearing of the fabric tape is prevented by applying a sudden tensile force to the same by the force is cushioned or braked. The clamping unit is preferably designed such that the clamping force of the fabric belt and thus the stiffness of the wound node connection can be adjusted. Starting from the tensioning unit, the fabric band is preferably guided through an impregnation unit for impregnating the fabric band with a liquid, in particular with a thermosetting liquid such as resin. Preferably, the fabric tape in the region of the impregnation unit is guided by suitable deflecting elements substantially in the direction of a rotation axis of the rotor, ie transversely to the direction of rotation. As a result, the impregnation unit can build much smaller. The dimensions, in particular the radius of the device according to the invention can thereby be smaller overall. In addition, the smaller dimensioning of the impregnation unit reduces the risk that during a rotary movement of the rotor, the impregnating liquid runs out. By means of the impregnation unit, the device according to the invention is able to carry out a fiber-wound winding process in which the resulting wound node connection is formed from a fiber composite material comprising a fiber material (fabric tape) and a plastic matrix (impregnation liquid). Preferably, the rotor further comprises a guide unit for guiding the fabric tape along the winding paths, the preferably one or more thread guide roller (s) and / or ring thread eye (s). Starting from the guide unit, the fabric tape is placed on the joining region of two components to be joined and unwound along the winding paths on the two components.

The cloth tape supply reel, the tension unit, the impregnation unit (optional) and the guide unit are preferably arranged in the above order one behind the other in a rotational direction on the inside of the rotor and rotate upon rotation of the rotor about the rotation axis. At a sufficiently high rotational speed of the impregnation unit, the resulting centrifugal forces urge the impregnating liquid radially outward so that leakage of the liquid during rotation can be avoided.

The stator does not rotate. Nonetheless, it is preferably movably supported with respect to two components which in the device, i. H. can be arranged in the rotor. In particular, the stature is mounted so movable that its angular position can be changed relative to the two components.

It is particularly advantageous if the device is constructed in such a way that it can realize winding paths which run essentially along geodesic paths on the two components located in the device, whereby a geodetic path means the shortest connection between two points on a curved surface becomes. The course of the winding paths along geodesic paths is then considered when the components to be joined at least partially have a curved surface. A deviation from this path leads to slippage of the fabric tape and the loss of the set tension of the fabric belt in curved surfaces, resulting in a reduced rigidity of the wound node connection. Only the prevailing friction between the impregnated fabric tape and the component surface allows a slight deviation from a geodesic. However, this friction depends to a great extent on the duromeric system used and the nature of the joining partners, i. H. of the two components.

The stator preferably cooperates with a controller such that its position and in particular its angular position with respect to two components is determined as a function of predetermined, in particular computer-generated winding paths. The two components can be fixed during the production of the wound node connection by the device according to the invention by an external fastening device. The position of the stator can be advantageously changed during the winding process, so that different winding paths for forming the wound node connection can be produced during a single application process of the device. Also, the winding paths can be customized in this way to any components. The rotor also preferably cooperates with a controller in such a way that its rotational speed can be controlled and / or regulated.

The fabric tape is preferably a so-called roving, d. H. a fiber bundle, in particular a glass, aramid or carbon fiber bundle. The fabric tape preferably has an elliptical or rectangular cross-section and comprises a plurality of parallel filaments (continuous fibers). The length of the fabric tape wound on the fabric tape supply spool is preferably tuned to the predetermined required amount of fabric tape for a particular wound node joint to be produced. On the other hand, it is conceivable that the device has an automatic cutting device for cutting off the fabric tape after the completion of the desired wound node connection.

In addition, the device according to the invention may have at least one sensor which monitors the distance between the stator and / or the rotor to the two components, which are arranged in the effective range of the same in the intended use of the device. The sensors thus ensure that there are no collisions between parts of the device, in particular rotating parts such as the rotor and the components to be wrapped.

The fully wound knot comprises the wound fabric tape impregnated with impregnating liquid, which still requires a curing process for completion. For this purpose, a heat source for curing the finished wound node connection is preferably provided. This can be integrated into the device, for example as an additional element of the rotor. In this way, the wound node connection can cure accelerated immediately after its completion. Alternatively, separate heat sources, for example a UV lamp, heatable half-shell tools or the like can be used in order to obtain an optimum surface finish of the wound node connection.

The components to which the present device may be used may be a lightweight structure comprising a fiber reinforcing material and a plastics material. Matrix, in particular carbon, aramid or glass fibers in combination with a thermosetting system, in particular with a resin system. Furthermore, at least one of the two components may have an at least partially curved profile and in particular be designed as a round or tubular profile.

In principle, however, the invention is also applicable to metal profiles, in particular aluminum profiles, which may be formed as tubular profiles. The components to be wrapped thus form a winding core around which the impregnated fabric tape is wound.

The tension of the fabric band is preferably adjustable by means of the clamping unit. By a corresponding variation of the fabric tension, the properties of the joint, such as the rigidity, can be adjusted. This creates the opportunity to give even after the production of the individual parts of an entire assembly still targeted stiffness at the connection points of the items. However, the device can not only produce a different fabric tension for different applications, but also the number of wraps and thus the thickness of the wound node connection and the angle of the winding paths with respect to the joint can be flexibly adapted to the particular load case.

In order to realize an optimal, individually adapted wound knot, the device according to the invention preferably cooperates with a suitable computer program. This can perform a method in which a wound joint connection is individually designed and designed prior to implementation by the device according to the invention, namely with a view to a concrete joint to be reinforced between two components. This interpretation and design is preferably carried out by means of a so-called finite element simulation, with which a 3D model of the individual joining area can be generated computer-aided. On the basis of this, the load paths that arise in the joint or in the joint area can then be simulated for different load cases acting on the joint. On the basis of the identified load paths of highest voltage, the winding paths on the components can then be calculated accordingly, on which the fabric tape must be stored in order to obtain an optimal reinforcement of the most stressed areas of the joint. The properties of the fabric tape can be used optimally in this way. The computer-generated winding paths can then be transferred to the control of the device according to the invention, on the basis of which the winding of the fabric tape around the respective connection point is performed around.

With the inventive device can be fully or partially-automated a wound node connection for connecting two components in a joint area are produced without being affected by z. B. mechanical processing for the insertion of screws, rivets o. Ä. At the joint weakening must be accepted. The node connection produced on the device has a fabric band, which runs around the two components to be connected along winding paths, preferably in a plurality of layers, wherein the winding paths are arranged substantially on geodesic paths. By arranging the winding paths on geodesic webs - the shortest connection between two points on a curved surface - it is achieved that the wound node connection on a curved surface has optimum rigidity. Deviation from this web leads to slippage of the fabric tape and loss of its pre-set tension, resulting in reduced stiffness. Preferably, the node connection extends over stress zones of the joining region of the two components, which are exposed to a load on a joint between the two components of an increased voltage. The determination of these zones of increased voltage can be done, for example, by a simulation of various load cases, in particular by means of a finite element method.

The two components are preferably connected to each other in such a form-fitting manner that one of the two components has a joint in a profile end or profile center region for connection to the respective other of the two components. The joint can be made in various ways, for example by forming or by other material processing methods. It is crucial that the joint allows a positive connection in the joint area of the two components. This can be done, for example, by widening or milling out an end region of a component in such a way that the widened or milled part is adapted to the profile of the respective other component. In the overlap area, i. H. in the contact area of the two components, it is then necessary to arrange the winding paths along geodesic paths. In addition to the wound node connection, it can be provided that, for the preliminary positioning of the two components relative to one another, initially an adhesive bond is provided at the joint, which facilitates the handling of the components.

Preferably, at least one of the two components is formed as a lightweight supporting structure and thus comprises a reinforcing fiber material and a Plastic matrix, in particular carbon, aramid or glass fibers and a thermoset system, in particular a resin system. At least one of the two components may have an at least partially curved profile, in particular a tubular profile. Furthermore, the fabric tape is advantageously a fiber bundle, ie a so-called roving, which may be a glass, aramid or carbon fiber bundle. The two components can be part of a closed frame. Furthermore, it can be provided that the fabric tape is impregnated with a thermoset system, in particular with resin, so that the wound node connection can ultimately be formed from a fiber composite plastic.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, there is also proposed a method for connecting two components in a joint area by producing a wound node joint. The method is characterized by an automated winding of a fabric band in the joining region along winding paths around the components, wherein the winding paths can extend substantially on geodesic paths.

Characterized in that the fabric tape is guided in an automated manner along winding paths around the components, which preferably extend on geodesic paths on a curved surface of the components, a particularly firm and optimal production of a wound node connection is ensured. The node connection is also individually adaptable to different use cases.

The method may further comprise the further step of producing a joint on at least one of the two components for connecting the two components in the joining region. The production of a joint is accomplished before the winding of the fabric band around the components around. The joint can be arranged at a profile end or a profile center of the respective component and can preferably be produced in such a way that a positive connection is produced on a region of the respective other component. The joint thus produces a form fit between the two components in such a way that the components touch each other in overlapping areas which are to be wrapped. Before winding, a provisional connection between the two components in the region of the joint can be produced, which can be realized in particular by gluing in the area of the joint.

In order to increase the strength of the resulting wound knot connection, the fabric tape can be soaked with a liquid before winding, in particular with a thermosetting system, for example made of resin. After winding the fabric tape in the joining region of the two components, the fabric tape can be cured, in particular by a heat on the fabric tape.

For automated implementation of the method according to the invention, for example, a device according to the invention may be provided which cooperates with a controller which contains the winding paths to be executed. The individual optimum winding paths, which may vary depending on the type of component and application, are simulated, for example, by a computer-aided system, in particular by determining stress zones of the joint area with different load effects on the joint between the two components, which in the case of a load application of an increased voltage are exposed. Depending on the determined stress zones, the winding paths can then be transferred to the controller and the fabric belt can be wound around the two components in accordance with these winding paths.

The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing. Show it:

1 a schematic side view of a device for automated connection of two components according to the invention;

2 a perspective view of an apparatus for automated connection of two components according to the invention;

3a a schematic side view of the device according to the invention in a first winding position;

3b a schematic side view of the device according to the invention in a second winding position;

3c a schematic side view of the device according to the invention in a third winding position;

3d a schematic side view of the device according to the invention in a fourth winding position;

4a a schematic representation of the load paths when exerting a tensile force on the connection between two components;

4b a schematic representation of the load paths when exerting a bending force on the connection between two components;

4c a schematic representation of the load paths when exerting a thrust force on the connection between two components;

4d a schematic representation of the determination of the optimal winding angle;

5 CAD representation of a winding path in a joining region of two components;

6 a detailed perspective view of the fabric tape supply reel, the clamping unit and the impregnation unit of the device according to the invention;

7 an enlarged detail of the impregnation according to 6 ;

8th a still further enlarged detail of the impregnation unit according to the invention, and

9 an illustration of a fully wound node connection between two components.

The 1 shows a schematic side view of a device 1 for automated connection of two in the effective range 2 the device 1 located in the components 1 are not shown. The device 1 comprises a rotating winding device, which in the in 1 shown embodiment as a circular segment-like rotor 3 is trained. The rotor 3 is thus substantially C-shaped and thus comprises a circle segment 3a and a radial opening 3b , each describing a circular arc. The rotor 3 is about a rotation axis RA within a stator 5 rotatably mounted. In operation of the device 1 is located approximately in the region of the axis of rotation RA a joining region of two components to be joined.

In the embodiment according to 1 is the stator 5 as the rotor, formed like a circle segment and consequently also has a C-shaped configuration with a circular segment 5a and a radial opening 5b on, each describing a circular arc. The rotor 3 is thus concentric with the stator 5 arranged and fulfills the function of a carriage, which is inside the stator 5 is rotatably mounted in a rotational direction RR. For this purpose, the stator 5 on its inside, ie on its axis of rotation RA side facing a suitable camp. For generating a rotational movement of the rotor 3 relative to the stator 5 suitable drive means are provided. These may be formed, for example, electrically or magnetically, in particular in the manner of a linear motor or mechanically via gears, rollers, chains or the like drive mechanisms.

Like in the 2 Particularly well recognizable, the stator can 5 on a robot 7 to be appropriate. The robot may have a controller, not shown in the figures, by means of which not only the rotational speed of the rotor 3 can be controlled and / or regulated, but also a shift of the stator 5 effect in all spatial directions and thus can be optimally integrated into any production process. The robot 7 can also control the angular position of the stator by means of the control 5 regarding components that are in the effective range 2 the device 1 are arranged. A movement of the stator 5 is in the direction of the arrow 9 for example, by a rotational movement about a rotation axis D or by a pivoting movement of the robot arm possible. It is also conceivable that the stator 5 at least within certain limits in the direction of the arrow 11 , ie, in the direction of the rotation direction RR, is movably mounted. By means of the controller can also be the rotor 3 in a rotational movement about the axis of rotation RA offset and the speed of the rotor 3 be controlled or regulated.

For automated connection of two components in a joint area, the device 1 one in 1 recognizable fabric tape supply spool 13 on top of which is a fabric tape 23 (in the 1 not shown), in particular a so-called roving, which may be, for example, a glass, aramid or carbon fiber bundle, wound up. Furthermore, a clamping unit 15 provided for tensioning and decelerating the on the fabric tape supply reel 13 wound fabric tape 23 serves. With the clamping unit 15 For example, the fiber tension of a wound knot connection can be adjusted and jerky tensile forces can be cushioned on the fabric tape, so that a tearing of the fabric tape is avoided. The rotor 3 also includes an impregnation unit 17 for impregnating the fabric tape with a liquid. This impregnating liquid can be, for example, a resin system. Finally, there is a leadership unit 19 provided, which is designed for guiding the fabric tape along winding paths on the components and in the circumferential direction of the rotor 3 seen at one end of the circle segment 3a near the opening 3b is arranged. The leadership unit 19 may have one or more guide rollers and / or ring thread eyes. In the 1 is still an additional leadership role 21 recognizable, for the transfer of the fabric tape from the impregnating unit 17 to the leadership unit 19 serves.

The device 1 may have additional means, in particular safety devices such as sensors or a heat source for the completion of the wound node connection, which in the 1 but not shown.

The fabric tape supply spool 13 , the clamping unit 15 , the impregnation unit 17 and the leadership 19 are on the inside of the rotor 3 , that is arranged on the side facing the axis of rotation RA and in the above-mentioned order one behind the other in the direction of rotation RR.

It should be noted at this point that the impregnating unit 17 is not necessarily present. Rather, it is also possible to use the device 1 for carrying out a dry winding process in which the fabric tape wound without prior impregnation on the winding core, in the present case the joining region of two components and only then with a thermosetting material, in particular with a resin provided, in particular sprayed and thus impregnated.

The fabric tape supply spool 13 may be a coil with internal or external trigger. By immersing the fabric tape in the impregnating unit 17 The fabric tape is coated with resin. The fabric tape can then be passed through an impregnating liquid scraper to rid the fabric tape of excess liquid.

The operation of the device and a corresponding method will now be described with reference to 3a to 3d explained in more detail. The 3a shows a schematic side view of the device 1 in a first winding position of the rotor 3 , The same parts are provided with the same reference numerals, so that reference is made to the description of the preceding figures.

In the in 3a shown position of the rotor 3 in which the opening 3b of the rotor 3 with the opening 5b of the stator 5 Aligns, can be components 25 and 27 in the effective range 2 the device 1 position and become that way from the rotor 3 surround. When the two openings 5b and 3b So overlap, the device can 1 engage in or be removed from a closed frame structure. Before positioning in the device 1 the two components must already be suitably held together in the correct connection position by, for example, glued or plugged together.

Like in the 3a recognizable, becomes a fabric tape 23 starting from the fabric tape supply spool 13 , through the clamping unit 15 , the impregnation unit 17 , the leadership 21 and the leadership unit 19 guided. From the leadership unit 19 out of the fabric strip extends 23 to two components 25 and 27 in the effective range 2 the device 1 are arranged. For better handling of the components they are preferably already glued or stuck at the joint. The fabric tape 23 is applied to the components in the joining area 29 stored. Because the fabric tape 23 impregnated with the impregnating liquid, it adheres to the components.

The fabric tape 23 is now starting from the in 3a shown position around the components 25 and 27 in the joining area 29 wound. For this purpose, the rotor rotates 3 in the direction of the rotation direction RR about the axis of rotation RA and thus around the components 25 and 27 around. As a result, the elements fastened to the inside of the rotor rotate about the axis of rotation RA. The rotation becomes the tissue band 23 from the fabric tape supply spool 13 unwound and through the impregnation bath 17 drawn. In the 3c and 3d becomes the rotor 3 twisted even further in the direction of rotation RR, so that after a complete rotation of the rotor 3 the fabric tape 23 along a predetermined winding path once around the components 25 and 27 was wrapped around.

The in the 3a to 3d The procedure shown is repeated until the desired number of windings around the components 25 and 27 is wound around or until the on the fabric tape supply spool 13 wound fabric tape 23 is consumed. To realize different winding paths, the stator is displaced during the winding process with respect to the components. The number of windings, the winding paths and the dimensions of the winding region may vary depending on the joining region to be wound and the rigidity and strength of the wound node joint to be achieved. The winding paths and the dimensioning (the angular range) of the wound knot are decisively determined by the guidance of the fabric tape 23 in the rotor 3 and the positioning of the stator 5 relative to the components 25 and 27 , The components 25 and 27 are preferably held by an external device, which may be part of a production process of a frame structure or the like. The device 1 can then in particular with the help of the robot 7 intervene in the ongoing production process.

Purely by way of example, the invention is based on two components to be joined 25 and 27 explained that, as in the 5 represented, T-shaped interconnected and formed as round profiles, in particular as pipe profiles. In principle, the invention can also be applied to joint areas between more than two components. The 5 makes it clear that the component 25 perpendicular to the other component 27 stands and at his the component 27 facing end of a joint 28 having, for forming a positive connection with the component 27 to the shape of the central region of the component 27 is adjusted. For this purpose can the end of a conventional component 25 be formed accordingly or individually adapted for the particular connection case, for example by injection molding, manufactured. For example, the end of the component 25 be milled out at one end so that it is on the other component 27 put on. It is crucial that the joint, ie the contact area between the components 25 and 27 creates a suitable overlap area, which is a wrapping of the two components 25 and 27 along winding paths 26 allows to move in a joining area 29 one in 5 schematically shown wound node connection 30 to accomplish. As a joining area 29 in the present case, the area of the joint 28 and an area extending beyond that, in which the winding paths 26 can run. It is thus an area in the vicinity of the junction of the two components 25 and 26 ,

A finished wound node connection 30 is in the 9 shown. Well recognizable there is that the fabric tape 23 in several layers in the joining area 29 along the in 5 shown winding paths 26 runs.

The 5 makes it clear that the winding paths 26 symmetrical with respect to the joint 28 or with respect to the joining area 29 run. Depending on the application and component type, the winding paths and thus the wound node connection 30 However, also be arranged asymmetrically. In addition, it becomes clear that the winding paths 26 at the joint 28 overlap. These overlaps can be a particularly stiff connection in the joint area 28 be created. In the device 1 During a winding process, a first area on the right or left of the in 5 shown component 25 wound. Subsequently, the stator 5 so pivoted with respect to the components that the area can be wound on the other side.

Overall, the device generates 1 according to the invention, a wound node connection 30 in the joining area 29 two components 25 and 27 by removing the fabric tape 23 from the fabric tape supply spool 13 is subtracted by the rotation, by the clamping unit 15 In connection with a brake is brought to tension in the impregnating in the impregnating unit 17 with resin = impregnating liquid 41 impregnated and finally around the components to be joined 25 and 27 is wound. To determine the winding area, ie the dimensioning of the wound node connection 30 , Preferably, the optimal Gewebebandlage is determined on the components before the winding process. This optimal fabric tape ply is constrained by component design, design specifications, and the kinematics of the winding motion, which must prevent collisions between the rotor / stator and the components. The winding paths 26 of the fabric tape 23 are therefore preferably for each joining area 29 individually determined and the device 1 controlled according to the calculated winding paths.

Around each joining area 29 two or more components optimally adapted to their respective load case, the load paths are identified in the individual joint area. Here, the respective joining area is represented by a finite element simulation and the load paths in the components are determined for different load cases. The 4a . 4b and 4c each show the simulated load paths of the same joining region of the two T-shaped connected components 25 and 27 for different load cases. So is in the 4a z. B. a stress on the joining area to train in the direction of the arrow 31 shown. With the help of the simulation areas of maximum stress can then be determined, as in the 4a to 4c is shown. Areas in which a lower voltage is recorded in the respective load case, are removed from the diagram and there remain the zones of maximum voltage, hereinafter referred to as stress zones 37 referred to, namely the triangular surfaces.

In the 4b the resulting load paths are shown in a load case in which the component 25 along the arrow 33 is bent. In the 4c on the other hand, there will be a thrust in the direction of the arrow 35 on the component 25 exercised. Like in the 4d by way of example according to the load case according to FIG 4b (Bend) can be determined by the stress zones 37 the winding angle α can be determined. This allows the area to be determined by the tissue band 23 in the joining area 29 must cover to ensure optimum joining between the component 25 and the component 27 through the wound node connection 30 to create.

Then the winding paths 26 of the fabric tape 23 determined by means of a computer-assisted optimization method as a function of the identified load paths. The winding paths 26 are determined in the area of the load paths so that they are approximately along geodesic paths - the shortest connection between two points on a curved surface - on the curved surface of the components 23 and 25 run. The winding webs 26 can, for example, by means of a CAD-generated 3D representation according to 5 be reproduced. The resulting winding paths 26 are transferred into a robot control, which then the winding parameters, in particular the position of the stator 5 and the rotational speed of the rotor 3 as well as the tension of the fabric tape 23 such controls that for a corresponding component optimized wound node connection in the joining region of two components arises. To the predetermined winding paths 26 , which may be different as said depending on the application, by the device 1 to be able to implement is, as explained above, a movement of the stator 5 relative to the joining area 29 necessary.

The 6 shows still a detailed perspective view of the in the stator 5 stored rotor 3 , Well recognizable in the 6 in the rotational direction RR successively arranged fabric tape supply spool 13 , the clamping unit 15 and the impregnation unit 17 ,

The impregnation unit 17 is in the 7 and in the 8th shown enlarged. It becomes clear that the impregnation unit 17 a container 39 for receiving the impregnating liquid 41 , which is formed in particular of resin, having. In the area of the impregnation unit 17 becomes the tissue band 23 essentially in the direction of the axis of rotation RA of the rotor 3 guided.

As the 7 and 8th make this particularly clear, this is in the present embodiment by a deflection of the tissue band 23 so accomplished that the fabric tape 23 between the bottom of the container 39 and two preferably cylindrical and in particular identically designed deflection is performed. The deflection elements are preferably arranged in parallel and in the present case purely by way of example as cylindrical bolts 43a and 43b educated. By the deflecting the fabric tape 23 in the impregnation unit 17 guided in a rotational axis direction RA. This is done by the clamping unit 15 coming fabric tape 23 from a first guide roller F1 first to a first deflecting element 43a guided and deflected by this by 90 ° from the rotational direction RR in the rotation axis direction RA. Starting from the first deflecting element 43a becomes the tissue band 23 through the impregnating bath to the second deflecting element 43b guided, where it is again deflected by 90 ° and is passed to a second guide roller F2. The second guide roller F2 is, with respect to the rotational direction RR, on the same side as the first guide roller F1 of the impregnation unit 17 arranged. Starting from the second guide roller F2, the fabric band 23 to one on the opposite side of the impregnation unit 17 arranged third guide roller F3 out. The deflecting elements 43a and 43b protrude at the in 7 and 8th shown embodiment at least partially into the container 39 and the impregnating liquid contained therein 41 into it.

The longitudinal axis L of the deflecting elements 43a . 43b may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the rotation axis direction RA and, moreover, may be substantially tangential to the rotation direction RR or to that through the rotor 3 be arranged circular path described. In this way, the impregnation unit builds 17 very compact.

Overall, it is thus evident that the present invention can advantageously produce a wound node connection with a very high strength and rigidity in a non-destructive manner. The invention can also be applied to closed frame structures, such as a car frame. Furthermore, the winding parameters can be adjusted so that an individually adapted and thus optimally wound node connection can be produced. This is particularly advantageous for FRP components, as it avoids any destruction of the fibers and thus weak points of the joint area. Due to the variation of the winding parameters, in particular the position of the winding paths and the tension of the fabric tape, the wound knot connection is moreover adaptable to different joining regions of different components with respect to their rigidity and strength.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

contraption

2

effective range

3

rotor

3a

circular segment

3b

opening

5

stator

5a

circular segment

5b

opening

7

robot

9

arrow

11

arrow

13

Fabric tape-supply reel

15

clamping unit

17

impregnation

19

Guide unit

21

leadership

23

cloth tape

25

component

26

winding path

27

component

28

joint

29

joining area

30

wound node connection

31

arrow

33

arrow

35

arrow

37

stress zone

39

container

41

impregnating liquid

43a

first deflecting element

43b

second deflecting element

RA

axis of rotation

RR

direction of rotation

D

axis of rotation

α

winding angle

L

longitudinal axis

F1

first leadership

F2

second leadership role

F3

third leadership

Claims (22)

Contraption ( 1 ) for automated connection of two components ( 25 . 27 ) in a joining area ( 29 ), comprising a rotating winding device with a particular circular segment-like rotor ( 3 ) with a leadership unit ( 19 ), preferably one or more yarn guide rollers (s) ( 21 ) and / or ring thread eye (s) for guiding a fabric tape ( 23 ) along winding paths ( 26 ) and for creating a wound node connection ( 30 ) in the joining area ( 29 ), wherein the one fabric tape supply reel ( 13 ), C-shaped and with a radial opening ( 3b ) provided rotor ( 3 ) in a C-shaped, circular segment-like, one with the opening ( 3b ) in overlapping opening ( 5b ) provided stator ( 5 ) is movably mounted in a direction of rotation (RR) so as to open the opening ( 5b ) of the circle segment ( 5a ) of the stator ( 5 ) and where the stator ( 5 ) cooperates with a controller such that its position and in particular its angular position with respect to the two components ( 25 . 27 ) as a function of predetermined winding paths ( 26 ) is determined. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the rotor ( 3 ) a clamping unit ( 15 ) for tensioning the fabric band ( 23 ) having. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotor ( 3 ) an impregnation unit ( 17 ) for impregnating the fabric tape ( 23 ) with a liquid, in particular with a duromeric system, in particular a resin system. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fabric tape supply reel ( 13 ), the clamping unit ( 15 ), the impregnation unit ( 17 ) and the leadership unit ( 19 ) in the aforementioned order one behind the other in a direction of rotation (RR) on the inside of the circular segment-like rotor ( 3 ) are arranged. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stator ( 5 ) movable with respect to the two components ( 25 . 27 ) is mounted, in particular such that its angular position with respect to the two components ( 25 . 27 ) is variable. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the winding paths ( 26 ) along geodesic paths. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the position of the stator ( 5 ) can be changed during the winding process. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stator ( 5 ) cooperates with a controller such that its position and in particular its angular position with respect to the two components ( 25 . 27 ) as a function of computer-generated winding paths ( 26 ) is determined. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is in the tissue band ( 23 ) is a fiber bundle, in particular a glass, aramid or carbon fiber bundle. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one sensor is provided which determines the distance between the stator ( 5 ) and / or the rotor ( 3 ) to the two components ( 25 . 27 ) supervised. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a heat source for curing the finished wound node connection ( 30 ) is provided. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the rotor ( 3 ) cooperates with a controller such that its rotational speed is controllable. Apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that extending on geodesic paths winding paths ( 26 ) over stress zones ( 37 ) of the joining area ( 29 ) are stretchable, which at a load on the joint area ( 29 ) are subjected to increased stress. On a device according to one of the preceding claims executable method for connecting two components ( 25 . 27 ) in a joining area ( 29 ) by producing a wound node connection ( 30 ), comprising the following steps: - making a joint ( 28 ) on at least one of the two components ( 25 . 27 ) for the positive connection of the two components ( 25 . 27 ) in the joining area ( 29 ); Automated wrapping of a fabric tape ( 23 ) in the joining area ( 29 ) along winding paths ( 26 ) around the components ( 25 . 27 ), where the Winding paths ( 26 ) can essentially run on geodesic paths. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that the joint ( 28 ) at a profile end or a profile center of the respective component ( 25 . 27 ) is formed. Method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that the joint ( 28 ) is produced by a forming process. Method according to one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the joint ( 28 ) for producing a positive connection to a region of the respective other component ( 25 . 27 ) is adjusted. Method according to one of claims 14 to 17, characterized by bonding, in particular gluing, soldering or welding of the two components ( 25 . 27 ) in the area of the joint ( 28 ) together. Method according to one of claims 14 to 18, characterized by curing the fabric tape ( 23 ), in particular by heat. Method according to one of claims 14 to 19, characterized by impregnating the fabric tape ( 23 ) with a liquid, in particular with a thermosetting resin or polyester system. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by computer-aided calculation of stress zones ( 37 ) of the joining area ( 29 ) which, when a load is applied to the joint ( 28 ) between the two components ( 25 . 27 ) are subjected to increased stress. Method according to Claim 21, characterized by winding the winding paths as a function of the calculated stress zones ( 37 ).

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