Composite Layers with Exposed Reinforcement for Perpendicular Conductivity
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current composite structures used in aircraft, such as skin panels, lack sufficient electrical conductivity, particularly in directions perpendicular to the structure, which can lead to undesired effects like overheating and damage during electromagnetic events like lightning strikes.
Innovation Solution
A composite layer is created by embedding a conductive reinforcement within a nonconductive matrix, with portions of the reinforcement exposed at the surface to enhance electrical conductivity in a direction perpendicular to the layer, allowing for effective dissipation of electrical currents and electromagnetic forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If composite materials are used to form composite structures, then strength is increased and weight is reduced, but electrical conductivity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining a nonconductive matrix material with conductive reinforcement materials (such as carbon fibers or metal particles) to create a composite structure that maintains the lightweight and strong properties of composite materials while adding electrical conductivity through the conductive reinforcement phase
2Strength
If reinforcement is embedded within the matrix, then structural integrity is maintained, but electrical conductivity in the perpendicular direction is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating regions with different reinforcement concentrations and orientations - specifically, exposing reinforcement at the surfaces of composite layers to create locally enhanced conductive pathways perpendicular to the layer, while maintaining the embedded reinforcement structure for structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from purely planar (in-plane) conductivity to three-dimensional conductivity by exposing reinforcement at both top and bottom surfaces of composite layers, creating vertical conductive pathways that connect adjacent layers
3Reliability
If electrical currents travel through the matrix, then conductive pathways are formed, but undesired inconsistencies and overheating occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of electrical currents traveling through the nonconductive matrix into a beneficial configuration by providing dedicated conductive pathways through exposed reinforcement at surfaces, which channel the currents efficiently without causing overheating or inconsistencies in the matrix material
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration increases the electrical conductivity of the composite structure, providing a desired level of protection against electromagnetic events without compromising strength or weight, thereby preventing overheating and damage to the aircraft components.
Implementation Method 1
The reinforcement comprises a conductive material. The reinforcement is located within the matrix to form a composite layer. A portion of the reinforcement is exposed at a surface of the composite layer such that electrical conductivity of the composite layer is increased in a direction substantially perpendicular to the composite layer
Data Source
AI summary
A composite structure comprising a matrix and a reinforcement. The matrix comprises a substantially nonconductive material. The reinforcement comprises a conductive material. The reinforcement is located within the matrix to form a composite layer. A portion of the reinforcement is exposed at a surface of the composite layer such that electrical conductivity of the composite layer is increased in a direction substantially perpendicular to the composite layer.