Composite Tapered Joint With Internal Nut for Lightweight Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing composite tubular structures face challenges in efficiently transferring axial, tensile, and compressive loads while maintaining a lightweight and simple connector arrangement, as they often require complex and heavy external nuts and additional clamping mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A composite tubular structure design featuring inwardly tapered portions with internally embedded nuts and externally provided annular members, along with channels and securing members, allows for a mechanical, non-bonded connection that reduces mass and complexity by utilizing high frictional forces for load transfer without external nuts, using tapered surfaces and channels to securely engage end fittings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If external nuts and additional clamping mechanisms are used to transfer axial loads, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and mass increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the external nut and additional clamping mechanisms from the connector arrangement. Instead, it uses an internally embedded nut within the tapered portion that integrates the clamping function into the tubular member itself, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining connection strength through the tapered interface and internally embedded nut combination
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functions of the external nut and clamping mechanism into a single internally embedded nut integrated with the tapered portion. This consolidation eliminates separate external components while achieving both load transfer and clamping functions through the unified internal structure
2Strength
If external nuts and clamping mechanisms are used to transfer axial loads, then the connection strength is improved, but the mass of the connector arrangement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the external nut and additional clamping components that contribute to mass. The tapered portion with internally embedded nut provides the necessary clamping and load transfer functions without the additional mass of external hardware
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the clamping and load transfer functions into the internally embedded nut integrated with the tapered portion, the invention eliminates separate external components and their associated masses, achieving weight reduction while maintaining connection strength
3Device complexity
If a simple connector arrangement is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to transfer axial, tensile, and compressive loads efficiently is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by creating a specialized tapered portion with an internally embedded nut at the specific location where load transfer is needed. This localized structural feature provides enhanced load transfer capability for axial, tensile, and compressive loads without requiring complex connector arrangements throughout the entire structure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the geometric parameter of the tubular member by introducing a tapered portion with a specific angle. This parameter change creates the necessary mechanical advantage and frictional forces for efficient load transfer, achieving strong connections without complex connector arrangements
4Weight of stationary object
If tapered surfaces with internally embedded nuts are used, then the mass and complexity are reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention specifies a tapered portion with a controlled angle parameter. By defining this geometric parameter, the invention achieves the necessary mechanical function for load transfer and clamping while providing a clear manufacturing target that balances precision requirements with mass reduction benefits
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 design effectively transfers loads with reduced mass and complexity, providing a strong, adjustable, and reliable connection that maintains structural integrity under various load conditions without the need for external clamping, facilitating easier assembly and reconfiguration.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing high frictional forces for load transfer
Data Source
AI summary
A tubular structure is described herein comprising an elongate tubular member extending between a first end and a second end, wherein the tubular member comprises an inwardly tapered portion adjacent said first end, the inwardly tapered portion narrowing the tubular member in a longitudinal direction towards said first end. A nut is also provided internally of said tubular member at said inwardly tapered portion, said nut having an outer surface that is in contact an inner surface of said tubular member. An annular member is also provided externally of said tubular member at said inwardly tapered portion, said annular member having an inner surface that is in contact with said outer surface of said tapered portion. The inner surface of said tubular member at said inwardly tapered portion is tapered so as to extend at an angle that compliments an angle of the outer surface of said nut.