Composite Right-Angle Fitting with Curved Fiber Load Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors made of composite materials for perpendicular surfaces lack optimal strength and stiffness, particularly in aerospace applications where weight and strength are critical considerations.
Innovation Solution
A fitting comprising a flange and base part made of molded fiber composite material with continuous fiber tow looped around inserts, following a curved path in the transition zone between the flange and base parts, and a washer with a concave upper surface and convex underside to apply compressive force on the fiber tow, enhancing tensile and compressive load handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If conventional composite fittings are used for perpendicular surfaces, then weight reduction is achieved, but strength and stiffness are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing continuous fiber tows specifically in the transition zone between flange and base parts, where the load path transitions from one perpendicular surface to another. The fiber orientation is locally optimized to follow the curved load path, providing enhanced strength and stiffness precisely where needed rather than uniformly throughout the entire fitting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs curvature by guiding the continuous fiber tows along a curved path in the transition zone between the flange and base parts. This curved fiber arrangement better follows the natural load transmission path through the fitting, improving both tensile and compressive load handling capabilities while maintaining the lightweight composite structure.
2Strength
If fiber reinforcement is added to improve strength, then strength increases, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the continuous fiber tows in the desired curved configuration within the mold before the composite material is cured. This preliminary placement ensures the fibers are correctly oriented along the load path before manufacturing is complete, simplifying the overall manufacturing process compared to attempting to achieve the same fiber arrangement through post-processing or complex multi-step fabrication.
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting for connecting first and second components arranged at right angles to each other that includes a flange part, which extends in a first direction and has a first connection surface in contact with the first component, and which has at least one first connection hole formed by a bore of a first insert; and a base part, which extends in a second direction, perpendicular to the first direction, and has a second connection surface in contact with the second component, and which has at least one second connection hole formed by a bore of a second insert. The first insert is joined to the second insert by at least one loop of continuous fiber tow wound around radially outer surfaces of the first insert second inserts.