Reconfigurable tooling using variable stiffness material

Details Reconfigurable tooling using variable stiffness material Reconfigurable tooling using variable stiffness material

2007-09-13

2011-11-15

Crispino, Richard (Department: 1747)

Plastic article or earthenware shaping or treating: apparatus

With interposed non-adhering web or sheet type parting means

C425S112000, C425S127000, C425S577000, C425S388000, C425S394000, C249S161000

Reexamination Certificate

active

08057206

ABSTRACT:
In some embodiments, reconfigurable tooling is provided having an array of actuator columns affixed to a support base. A programmable controller is configured to position the actuator columns. The reconfigurable tooling has a tooling surface which includes a variable stiffness surface capable of controllable states of stiffness, the variable stiffness surface being capable of being deformed by the actuator columns in a soften state, and rigid in a stiff state. In some embodiments, the variable stiffness surface is configurable multiple times.

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