Automated programming for the robotic layup process

Abstract

Hand layup is still appreciated in modern industry for processing composite materials. Since is a manual process, reaching a standardization is impossible and this limits the applicability of this process. AFP and ATP offer a good level of automation and standardization, but both these processes are effective on simple-shaped surfaces. The conventional manufacturing processes have been increasing their level in automation thanks to the implementation of tooling machines and software that are able to automatically generate routes and tasks for manufacturing of a desired component. The goal of this research project is to take a step forward in the evolution of CAE software for tasks and routes management of the robotic layup process. In this paper a script implemented with MATLAB is described. The implemented script can automatically generate movements for robotic layup given a desired mold: starting from a user-given surface, the surface can be divided into sub-surfaces, and the software can automatically generate paths for each part of the surface according to the manual techniques studied by professional laminators.