Composite Lattice Attachment Interface for Localized Point Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing composite materials used in lattice girders of rigid airships are optimized for tensile loads but not for shear loads, leading to inefficiencies in attaching systems like electrical harnesses and helium cells directly to these structures, which results in thicker and heavier tubes when point loads are required.
Innovation Solution
A composite connection interface with cylindrical sleeves and radially projecting sockets, reinforced by plate-shaped parts with standardized bores, allows for attaching systems to composite lattice structures efficiently, using fasteners that integrate with standardized interface parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If point loads are applied directly to composite tubes, then attachment of systems is achieved, but the tube thickness must be increased along the entire length resulting in heavier structure
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces connection interfaces with localized reinforcement at specific attachment points on the composite lattice structure. These interfaces concentrate the load-bearing capability only where needed, rather than requiring uniform thickening of the entire tube. The connection interface includes reinforcing elements that are positioned locally at the attachment location, allowing point loads to be applied without increasing the thickness and weight of the entire tube structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection interface acts as an intermediary element between the composite tube and the attached system. It includes a mounting plate or interface structure that distributes the point load over a larger area of the composite tube, converting concentrated loads into distributed loads. This intermediary structure allows attachment of systems while maintaining the original tube thickness and weight characteristics.
2Ease of operation
If standardized connection interfaces are implemented, then attachment simplicity and repeatability improve, but interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention designs connection interfaces with standardized mounting plates and attachment features that can serve multiple functions and accommodate different attached systems. The interface includes universal mounting holes, standardized flange dimensions, and repeatable geometric features that allow the same interface design to be used across multiple attachment locations and for different types of systems, thereby improving simplicity and repeatability despite the inherent complexity of the interface structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A connection interface made of composite or possibly metal material for connecting at least one chord with at least two diagonals, wherein the sleeve has at least one sleeve provided to surround the chord about a longitudinal direction and at least two radially projecting sockets. Each of the sockets is designed to receive one end of one of the diagonals. The interface further includes a first reinforcing part extending between the two sockets, the reinforcing part having a bore forming an attachment point, and a second reinforcing part opposite the first reinforcing part with respect to the longitudinal direction, the second reinforcing part having a second bore forming an attachment point.