RANN UTILIZATION EXPERIENCE. CASE STUDY NO. 5. AUTOMATED BEAM BENDER

The objective of this research was to develop a computer- controlled method for the cold forming of ship frames, i.e., large steel beams. The approach taken was to develop a bench scale model of a beam-bending apparatus that can shape ship frames by applying pure bending moment to the members and eliminate out-of-plane deformation by computer routines that correct incipient errors detected during the bending. Successful completion of the project can potentially revitalize the ailing U.S. shipbuilding industry by vastly reducing the costly customization process, thereby reducing the costs of shipbuilding. From this project the Maritime Administration expects to obtain specifications for a full-scale beam bender. Overall, project utilization is significant in that a federal agency, the Maritime Commission, is using the research results; in addition, attitudes of industry are being modified through awareness of the ultimate potential of the techniques being developed.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • Also included in complete report and summary, PB-247243; PC $13.00, MF $2.25. Prepared in cooperation with Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, Department of Mechanical Engineering.
• Corporate Authors:

  Research Triangle Institute

  P.O. Box 12194
  Research Triangle Pk, NC  United States  27709
• Authors:
  • Mergler, H W
• Publication Date: 1975

Media Info

• Pagination: 30 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Automatic control; Automation; Beams; Metal working; Shipyards
• Old TRIS Terms: Beams (Structural); Shipyard automation
• Subject Areas: Marine Transportation; Terminals and Facilities;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00134610
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
• Report/Paper Numbers: NSF/RA/G-75-033
• Contract Numbers: NSF-C927
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jun 23 1976 12:00AM