TPI Composites, Inc.
SEMI-AUTOMATED LASER-GUIDED MECHANISM TO APPLY PASTE BEAD IN BONDING PROCESS FOR FABRICATION OF WIND TURBINE BLADES

Abstract:

Devices, systems, and methods of improving paste flow during the manufacture of wind turbine blades are provided. An apparatus for applying adhesive to a composite structure (e.g. wind turbine blade) comprises a paste shoe having a top surface with an aperture to receive a supply of adhesive, and two legs extending downwardly from the top surface and configured to engage a surface of the composite structure to define an interior volume within the paste shoe. A transport mechanism (e.g. wheels, treads) are disposed on each leg to move the paste shoe relative to the composite structure while adhesive is dispensed within the interior volume. A force applicator, applies a force to the paste shoe to maintain a constant interior volume and thus a uniform bead of paste is applied to the composite structure.