초록

A head is positionable close to a supported composite material. A compactor on the head is movable relative to the head by a fluid actuator. A programmable valve means ports air into the actuator at several different pressures to provide variable compaction force.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method for compacting composite material, comprising the following steps:placing composite material on a support surface;positioning a compaction assembly proximal said support surface;providing a first compaction element on said assembly between said assembly and said

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method for compacting composite material, comprising the following steps:placing composite material on a support surface;positioning a compaction assembly proximal said support surface;providing a first compaction element on said assembly between said assembly and said material;providing a second compaction element on said assembly between said assembly and said material;directing pressurized fluid to an actuator on said frame;actuating said first compaction element with said actuator;applying a first compaction force to said material in response to actuation of said first compaction element;actuating said second compaction element with said actuator;applying a first compaction force to said material in response to actuation of said second compaction element;varying the pressure of fluid ported into said actuator; andapplying a second compaction force to said material with said second compaction element. [3.] A method for compacting composite material, comprising the following steps:placing composite material on a support surface;positioning a compaction assembly proximal said support surface;providing a first compaction element, linearly movable relative to said assembly, on said assembly between said assembly and said material;providing a second compaction element, linearly movable relative to said assembly, on said assembly between said assembly and said material;directing pressurized fluid to an actuator on said assembly;selectively actuating one of said first and second compaction elements with said actuator;applying a first compaction force to said material in response to actuation of said selected compaction element by said actuator;varying the pressure of the fluid ported into said actuator; andapplying a second compaction force to said material with said selected compaction element.