Introduction: The increasing emphasis on environmental sustainability and lightweight development has made fiber winding technology an essential automated production method for producing composite structures. High-performance fiber-wound composite products are essential catalysts for the growth of industries including aerospace, automotive, energy, and chemicals, significantly contributing to the advancement of high-end manufacturing. Methods: This study examines the ideas and techniques of fiber winding technology, encompassing the processes involved in pipe winding. We assess the current state of technology by conducting a thorough analysis of patents related to fiber winding machines, categorized into three groups based on their attributes: equipment for winding rotary bodies, equipment for winding shaped bodies, and components for winding machines. Results: This study reveals several notable achievements in the field, including enhancements in winding processes, improvements in winding quality and efficiency, and the creation of numerous mechanisms and devices designed to optimize the operation of winding equipment. Nevertheless, obstacles remain, such as the need for increased precision and stability in tension regulation, expanded adaptation to complex geometries, and enhanced automation and intelligence in winding machinery. Discussion: The results indicate a clear trend toward automation, intelligence, and high precision in fiber winding technology. The integration of digital twin technology, robotics, and advanced control systems is seen as a promising direction for future development. These advancements could significantly improve the flexibility, adaptability, and intelligence of fiber winding machines, addressing current limitations and meeting the growing market demands for high-performance composite products. Conclusion: This study offers insights into technological advancements and innovation trends in fiber winding machines. It underscores the necessity for additional research and development to address current technological hurdles and advance fiber winding technology. The future of fiber winding technology hinges on its ability to adapt to complex working conditions, optimize process parameters in real-time, and achieve intelligent, efficient, and sustainable manufacturing of fiber-wound pipes.
Qiao et al. (Wed,) studied this question.