Bolt Compression Limiter with Dual Spring Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bolt assemblies often damage the flange when the limiter is positioned below its top surface, as the bolt head crushes the flange to stabilize the assembly, particularly in composite material flanges.
Innovation Solution
A dual spring mechanism, comprising a first and second Belleville disc or a set of tangs or a helical spring, applies a load to both the flange and the limiter within the flange, distributing the total load such that the limiter receives between 25% to 75% of the total load, thereby minimizing or eliminating damage to the flange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the limiter is positioned below the top surface of the flange to provide structural support, then the bolt assembly stability is improved, but the flange is damaged due to crushing by the bolt head
Solution Approach 1:
A dual spring mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the bolt head and the limiter-flange assembly. The first spring applies force to the limiter while the second spring applies force to the flange, distributing the bolt load and preventing direct crushing of the flange by the bolt head, thus maintaining stability without causing damage
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism changes the force distribution parameters by applying a controlled proportion of the total bolt load to the limiter (via the first spring) and the remaining proportion to the flange (via the second spring). This parameter control ensures the flange receives sufficient load for stability while avoiding excessive force that would cause damage
2Reliability
If the bolt head applies full load directly to the limiter to stabilize the assembly, then the bolt assembly stability is improved, but the flange structure is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The single load path from bolt head to limiter is segmented into two separate load paths: one through the first spring to the limiter, and another through the second spring to the flange. This segmentation allows independent control of forces applied to each component, ensuring both stability and structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism divides the total bolt load into two parameter-controlled portions: a first proportion applied to the limiter and a second proportion applied to the flange. This parameter control ensures the flange receives sufficient load for stability while avoiding excessive force that would compromise structural integrity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The dual spring mechanism effectively stabilizes the bolt assembly without crushing the flange, reducing damage and ensuring secure tightening, especially for composite material flanges, by distributing the load between the flange and the limiter.
Implementation Method 1
A dual spring mechanism, comprising a first and second Belleville disc or a set of tangs or a helical spring, applies a load to both the flange and the limiter within the flange
Implementation Method 2
a biasing mechanism that applies a load to a limiter positioned within the flange
Data Source
AI summary
A bolt compression limiter includes a Belleville disc that applies a load to a flange of a bolt assembly and a component that applies a load to a limiter positioned within the flange, the limiter being shy of the top surface of the flange. The load applied to the flange is a first proportion and the load applied to the limiter is a second proportion of the total load applied when a bolt of the bolt assembly is tightened.