Composite Saddle Clamp for Aircraft Fuel Tube Charge Dissipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing saddle clamps used in aircraft fuel tanks face issues with friction-induced damage to tubing due to high vibrations, and they do not effectively dissipate electrostatic charges without compromising structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A saddle clamp with monodispersed spherical aluminium particles dispersed in a thermoplastic polymer, providing both electrostatic charge dissipation and reduced friction through a metallic core, ensuring rigidity and consistent shape for secure tubing attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metallic inner parts are used in the clamp, then electrostatic charge dissipation is improved, but friction-induced damage to tubing increases due to high vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is constructed as a composite material system with a polymer matrix containing dispersed metal particles (aluminium, copper, or nickel) at concentrations of 5-50 wt%. This composite structure provides both the electrical conductivity needed for electrostatic charge dissipation and the reduced friction characteristics of polymer materials, eliminating the harmful effects of metal-on-tubing friction while maintaining regulatory compliance for charge discharge paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical and chemical parameters of the clamp material by controlling metal particle concentration (5-50 wt%), particle size (1-100 micrometers), and polymer matrix composition. These parameter adjustments optimize the balance between electrical conductivity for charge dissipation and friction reduction, allowing the clamp to meet electrostatic discharge requirements while minimizing tubing damage from vibration-induced friction.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If polymer material is used in the clamp, then friction-induced damage to tubing is reduced, but electrostatic charge dissipation capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp is constructed as a composite material system with a polymer matrix containing dispersed metal particles (aluminium, copper, or nickel) at concentrations of 5-50 wt%. This composite structure provides both the electrical conductivity needed for electrostatic charge dissipation and the reduced friction characteristics of polymer materials, eliminating the harmful effects of metal-on-tubing friction while maintaining regulatory compliance for charge discharge paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical and chemical parameters of the clamp material by controlling metal particle concentration (5-50 wt%), particle size (1-100 micrometers), and polymer matrix composition. These parameter adjustments optimize the balance between electrical conductivity for charge dissipation and friction reduction, allowing the clamp to meet electrostatic discharge requirements while minimizing tubing damage from vibration-induced friction.
3Reliability
If metal particles are added to polymer, then electrostatic charge dissipation is improved, but structural integrity and rigidity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the physical and chemical parameters of the clamp material by controlling metal particle concentration (5-50 wt%), particle size (1-100 micrometers), and polymer matrix composition. These parameter adjustments optimize the balance between electrical conductivity for charge dissipation and friction reduction, allowing the clamp to meet electrostatic discharge requirements while minimizing tubing damage from vibration-induced friction.
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
The clamp reduces friction-related damage to tubing and effectively dissipates electrostatic charges, maintaining structural integrity and compliance with regulatory discharge paths.
Implementation Method 1
The metallic inner parts 10 contact the tubing while holding the tubing within the elastomer cushion 12 and are electrically connected to the metallic end portions 14. Any electrostatic charges are discharged from the tubing 26 to the saddle clamp 24 and from the saddle clamp 24 to the PEEK bracket 20.
Implementation Method 2
Any electrostatic charges are discharged from the tubing 26 to the saddle clamp 24 and from the saddle clamp 24 to the PEEK bracket 20. Finally, the electrostatic charges are discharged into the rib 22.
Implementation Method 3
The clamp comprises a metal core for rigidity
Implementation Method 4
Aircraft can undergo high vibration during operation. Such high vibration can cause damage to the tubing due to friction against the metallic parts of the clamp.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
There is provided a clamp comprising a polymer (44) having metal particles (42) dispersed therein. The metal particles (42) can be made of aluminium. In one aspect, the clamp contains a metal core (40) for rigidity. One use of the clamp is within aircraft for holding fuel line tubing in place.