End effector pose optimization based on an integrated normal vector for improved compaction pressure uniformity in AFP on complex curved molds

Zihang Zhao, Yuhao Zhang, Junli Li, Yan Cui, Liqiang Zhang, Gang Liu, School of Automotive and Mechanical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, PR China, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Manufacturing Technology for Complex Large-Scale Thin-walled Aero Components in Mechanical Industry, PR China, Sichuan Research Institute, Shanghai JiaoTong University

Journal of Composite Materials

Published online on May 14, 2026

Abstract

Journal of Composite Materials, Ahead of Print.
During automated fiber placement (AFP) on complex curved molds, non-uniform compaction pressure can arise due to the inconsistency of surface normals within the finite roller–tool contact patch, which may induce local bridging and wrinkling and ultimately ...