Resin is Removed From the Common Fibers Allowing for Bending
Akihiko Tse — February 19, 2014 — Unique
References: commonfibers & commonfibers
Using the composite material of carbon fiber, the Common Fibers wallet was developed to be able to bend and hinge the sturdy material at specific points and hold its shape.
Often used to produce parts of planes, automotive parts and in the engineering of structures, the CF-LEX™ technology relies on a laser to ablate the resin from the polymer’s fibers so as to be contorted at different angles and positions. By removing the resin from carbon fiber, the technology enables the material to be reshaped and reconfigured. Once removed, the durable material still retains 80 per cent of its original strength, or equivalent to about 800 lbs per inch of hinge, according to Common Fibers.
The Common Fibers wallet is the first in a line of products set to be offered in the Spring of 2014 on its Kickstarter page. Other products that the team hope to produce using the same technology include laptop cases, iPad protectors, watch bands, automotive parts and wing flaps.
Often used to produce parts of planes, automotive parts and in the engineering of structures, the CF-LEX™ technology relies on a laser to ablate the resin from the polymer’s fibers so as to be contorted at different angles and positions. By removing the resin from carbon fiber, the technology enables the material to be reshaped and reconfigured. Once removed, the durable material still retains 80 per cent of its original strength, or equivalent to about 800 lbs per inch of hinge, according to Common Fibers.
The Common Fibers wallet is the first in a line of products set to be offered in the Spring of 2014 on its Kickstarter page. Other products that the team hope to produce using the same technology include laptop cases, iPad protectors, watch bands, automotive parts and wing flaps.
Trend Themes
1. CF-LEX™ Technology - Carbon fiber technology that allows for the ability to bend and reshape the material with retained strength, creating opportunities for products in the automotive and aerospace industries.
2. Resin Removal - Innovative process of ablating the resin from carbon fiber to create new possibilities for lightweight, durable and customizable products in various industries including automotive, aerospace, and technology.
3. Flexible Carbon Fiber - The ability to bend carbon fiber opens opportunities for creating new products such as phone cases, laptop cases, and iPad protectors in the technology industry.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - CF-LEX™ technology can disrupt the automotive industry by creating lightweight and durable automotive parts such as wing flaps for airplanes and car parts.
2. Aerospace - Resin removal technology can disrupt the aerospace industry by creating flexible carbon fiber products with retained strength and new design possibilities for airplane parts.
3. Technology - Flexible carbon fiber can disrupt the technology industry with new and innovative product ideas including phone cases, laptop cases, and iPad protectors.
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