Composite Tubular Joint with Sliding Multipart Nut Under Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing composite tubular structures face challenges in providing reliable support under both extreme tensile and compressive loads, as the embedded nut can separate from the tapered portion under compression, leading to failure at loads below the composite tubular member's capacity.
Innovation Solution
A composite tubular structure with an inwardly tapered section and a multipart nut comprising an internal nut and support member, where the internal nut slides within the support member under excessive compressive loads, maintaining the support member's contact with the tapered section to counter hoop stresses and prevent failure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single-piece embedded nut is used in a composite tubular structure, then the structure provides good support under tensile loads, but the nut separates from the tapered portion under extreme compressive loads, leading to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The embedded nut is divided into two separate components: an internal nut and an internal support member. The internal nut can slide within the internal support member during compressive loading, allowing the support member to remain in contact with the tapered portion and maintain structural integrity, while the nut accommodates the compressive forces.
2Device complexity
If the embedded nut remains fixed within the tapered portion, then the connection is simple and robust, but the composite tubular member cannot withstand extreme compressive loads due to separation and hoop stresses
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism transitions from a static fixed nut to a dynamic system where the internal nut can slide within the internal support member. This sliding capability allows the connection to adapt to extreme compressive loads by maintaining contact between the support member and the tapered portion, preventing separation and hoop stress failure.
Data Source
AI summary
A composite tubular structure includes an elongate composite member having an inwardly tapered section at an end and an embedded nut retained in the end inwardly tapered section for forming a connection with another component. The inwardly tapered section has an inner surface which follows a tapered outer surface of the embedded nut, the inwardly tapered section narrowing the composite member in a longitudinal direction towards the end so as to provide a constriction which retains the embedded nut within the inwardly tapered section. The embedded nut comprises a multipart nut, comprising an internal nut and an internal support member, and wherein the internal nut is arranged to slide within the internal support member in a direction away from the end of, and into, the elongate composite member when the composite tubular structure is under conditions of excessive axial compressive load.