Composite Fastening Structure for Lightning Current Distribution

An electrically conductive member is introduced as an intermediary element between the fastener and the composite structural members. This conductive member serves as a mediator that provides a dedicated low-resistance path for electrical current, preventing current concentration at the fastener while maintaining the mechanical fastening function. The conductive member is positioned to contact both structural members and the fastener, creating a separate current flow path.

The electrical conduction function is segmented from the mechanical fastening function. Instead of relying on the fastener alone to handle both mechanical load and electrical current, the solution divides these functions by introducing a separate conductive member specifically for current conduction. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its primary function without compromising the other.

The electrically conductive member acts as an intermediary that intercepts and redirects electrical current away from the fastener. By providing an alternative conduction path through the conductive member that contacts both structural members, the system prevents current from concentrating at the fastener during lightning strikes or other high-current events.

The solution converts the potentially harmful current concentration effect into a beneficial distributed flow pattern. By introducing the conductive member, the harmful concentration of current at the fastener is transformed into a distributed current flow through the conductive member and into the structural members, eliminating sparks while maintaining electrical conductivity.