Composite Boss Fitting Structure for Angular Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connector assemblies for angularly arranged members, particularly in weight-sensitive applications like the aircraft industry, face challenges in efficiently transferring loads and providing robust connections between components using traditional L-shaped or T-shaped fittings.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical assembly featuring a cleat or fitting with elongated bosses made of composite materials, such as long strand fibers and resin, which are angled and designed to project into recesses in the connected members or stiffeners, enhancing load transfer and reinforcement by providing a complementary surface for engagement and fastening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional L-shaped or T-shaped fittings are used to connect angularly arranged members, then the connection structure is simple, but the load transfer efficiency and structural integrity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is segmented into multiple functional portions: a first mounting portion for connecting to the first member, a second mounting portion for connecting to the second member, and at least one elongated boss for reinforcement. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall structural integrity while maintaining manufacturing feasibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional 2D L-shaped or T-shaped fittings to a 3D structure by incorporating at least one elongated boss that extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of the fitting. This dimensional addition provides enhanced load transfer paths and structural reinforcement without significantly increasing complexity.
2Weight of moving object
If composite materials are used to reduce weight, then weight efficiency improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is constructed from composite materials, specifically fiber-reinforced plastics, which provide high strength-to-weight ratio suitable for aerospace applications. The composite material construction reduces fitting weight while maintaining structural integrity, and the elongated bosses are integrated into the composite structure to enhance load transfer efficiency.
3Strength
If reinforcing members are added to improve load transfer, then structural integrity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the reinforcement function directly into the fitting structure by integrating elongated bosses as part of the fitting body itself. This eliminates the need for separate reinforcing members, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining improved load transfer efficiency and structural integrity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fitting (10) includes a first mounting portion (12) connectable with a first member and having opposing planar surfaces and inner and outer ends. A second mounting portion (14) is angled with respect to the first mounting portion, is connectable with a second member and has opposing planar surfaces, an outer end and an inner end integrally formed with the first mounting portion inner end. A boss (16) projects outwardly from the second mounting portion first surface and is disposeable within a recess of the second member or a stiffener coupled with the second member. The boss has an inner end adjacent to the second mounting portion inner end, an outer end spaced from the inner end, a centerline between the boss inner and outer ends, and an outermost surface spaced from the second mounting portion first surface by a spacing distance having a value greater than zero at all points along the centerline.