Based on the concept of 9-axis robot windings, the UK Cygnet Group and the University of Manchester School of Materials have recently reached a cooperation agreement. The two companies will work together to wind carbon fiber into lightweight parts for the automotive and aerospace markets..
The picture shows the 3D winding machine, the world's first machine capable of manufacturing complex parts, such as fuel pipes, ramps and aircraft spars.
Cygnet Texkimp Advanced Engineering (Northwich, UK) and Manchester University (Manchester, UK) announced in early July that lightweight components for automotive and aerospace applications can be prepared from their newly developed machines using carbon fiber winding.
According to Cygnet Texkimp, it can also be used to produce components in other markets, including wind blades for the energy sector.
The technology is a joint venture between the equipment manufacturer Cygnet Texkimp and the University of Manchester in the UK. The company has signed a 'Knowledge Conversion' Partnership Agreement (KTP) with the University of Manchester to develop advanced filament winding technology for complex structural components for the aerospace composites market..
The machine is based on the concept of a 9-axis robotic winding, first proposed by the university professor Prasad Potluri and using filament winding technology. Its working principle is more sophisticated than traditional methods such as weaving, making the application of carbon fiber on complex aerospace components more precise. Tests have shown that the wing of a single-passenger can be wound in just a few minutes. This technology has been further developed in the research and development center of Cygnet Texkimp.
The company is now experimenting with international parts manufacturers to produce a large-scale 3D Winder version, which will further develop the technology to meet specific market needs.