Abstract:
A convergent end-effector which combines a liquid and dry flow external to a spray nozzle eliminates clogging problems common in the prior art spray coating systems. The end-effector utilizes a nozzle (1) with an orifice (7) and at least one atomizing hole (6), a conduit (12) for directing a liquid resin through the nozzle and an outer housing (14) disposed around said conduit to form a cavity (13). Reinforcing material enters the cavity (13) on a gas stream supplied and controlled by an eductor (28) located prior to the outer housing (14), in the direction of the nozzle, and at an angle of less than about 90 DEG with respect to the conduit. The end of the conduit near the nozzle (1) is preferably angled toward the nozzle (1) to further direct the reinforcing material into the liquid resin.
Abstract:
In both the aircraft and aerospace industries, coatings are essential protection for structures, such as the fuselage, from destructive environmental conditions. Typically, the structure has a coating bonded to a substrate. It is essential in these industries that various tests be perfomed on the structures, such as corrosion and adhesion tests. The present invention relates to a method for testing the properties of a workpiece having a coating bonded to a substrate and an apparatus for preparing the workpiece for testing. The method comprises the steps of directing an abrasive media stream against the coating such that a portion of the coating is removed and then performing a test on the properties of the workpiece.
Abstract:
The deployable wing (1) of the present invention comprises an internal structure having diverging leading edge spars (7) attached to a keel spar (11) and cross spars (9) to form a delta wing configuration. This internal structure is enclosed within a volume defined by a fabric sail having an upper section (3a), a lower section (3b), and fabric ribs (5) disposed therebetween. This fabric sail volume is internally pressurized through a ram air intake (15) at the nose stagnation point. This deployable wing can be folded and deployed in the air.
Abstract:
Coating a substrate with a reinforced resin matrix comprised of liquid resin and reinforcing material can be accomplished with an apparatus where the liquid resin and the reinforcing material are mixed external to the apparatus prior to impacting the substrate. The liquid resin is directed through a cylinder (12) and then through an orifice (7) in nozzle (1), while the reinforcing material is carried in a gas stream through cavity (13), around cylinder (12), and past the nozzle (1). As the reinforcing material passes the nozzle (1), it is drawn into the liquid resin. Due to the distribution of the reinforcing material around the liquid resin flow, the reinforcing material is substantially homogeneously wetted by the liquid resin prior to impacting the substrate.