Integral Composite Bushing with Densified Hole Reinforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Composite materials face challenges in bearing strength due to low out-of-plane shear resistance and require additional material around holes, increasing weight and cost, while existing fastening methods fail to effectively transfer load and are not designed for load-bearing purposes.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a disk-shaped densified portion with filament tendrils, such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, around holes in composite structures to form a 'U' shape, which directs stress away from the hole and into the composite structure, enhancing bearing strength and load transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If additional edge material is added to separate the hole from the edge of the composite structure, then the bearing strength is improved, but the weight and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adding material only in the specific region around the hole where bearing strength is needed, rather than adding material throughout the entire structure. The edge material is strategically placed only adjacent to the hole to provide the necessary bearing strength, leaving the rest of the structure lightweight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by incorporating the edge material during the initial manufacturing process of the composite structure, before the structure is assembled or put into service. This ensures that the bearing reinforcement is already in place when the structure is put into service, eliminating the need for subsequent repairs or reinforcements.
2Strength
If additional edge material is added to separate the hole from the edge of the composite structure, then the bearing strength is improved, but the manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by incorporating the edge material during the initial manufacturing process of the composite structure, before the structure is assembled or put into service. This ensures that the bearing reinforcement is already in place when the structure is put into service, eliminating the need for subsequent repairs or reinforcements.
3Reliability
If composite washers are used to seal and conform to contour, then sealing is improved, but structural strength is not enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing function and structural reinforcement function into a single integrated component. The edge material is designed to both seal the hole and provide structural bearing strength, eliminating the need for separate sealing washers and reinforcing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The edge material component is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it seals the hole, provides bearing strength, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components for each function.
4Reliability
If composite fasteners are used to seal the hole, then sealing is improved, but load transfer capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing function and structural reinforcement function into a single integrated component. The edge material is designed to both seal the hole and provide structural bearing strength, eliminating the need for separate sealing washers and reinforcing elements.
Data Source
AI summary
A composite bearing comprising a densified portion, wherein a hole location is positioned at the approximate center of said densified portion; and a plurality of filament tendrils, wherein the plurality of filament tendrils are configured to wrap around the hole location to create a “U” shape.