Curved Sensor Clamp Reducing Stress Concentrations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fire and overheat detection systems in aircraft engines face challenges in withstanding high operating temperatures and vibrations, leading to stress concentrations and potential disconnection of sensor circuits.
Innovation Solution
A clamp fixture with curved legs and a loop design that connects to a rail, distributing vibrational forces and reducing stress concentrations, while securely holding sensor circuits in place using a hub and fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional mounting fixtures are used to hold sensor circuits, then the fixtures must be robust enough to withstand high operating temperatures and vibrations, but this leads to stress concentrations and potential disconnection of sensor circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature to the legs of the clamp fixture, transforming straight rigid legs into curved flexible legs. This curvature allows the legs to bend and absorb vibrational forces while maintaining connection to the sensor circuit, reducing stress concentrations at connection points and preventing disconnection under high-vibration conditions
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid mounting structures are used to secure sensor circuits, then the sensor circuits are held firmly in place, but stress concentrations occur during high-vibration operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the leg structure from straight to curved, fundamentally altering how the mounting fixture responds to vibrational forces. The curved geometry enables the structure to dynamically adapt to stress conditions while maintaining sensor circuit stability
Data Source
AI summary
A clamp fixture includes a hub extending between a first end and a second end. A first leg extends in a first direction from the first end of the hub, and a second leg extends in the first direction from the second end of the hub. At least a portion of the first leg curves away from the second leg, and at least a portion of the second leg curves away from the first leg. The clamp fixture also includes a loop with a first half and a second half. The first half includes a first jaw extending from the hub. The second half includes a flange and a second jaw extending from the flange. A fastener connects the flange to the hub such that the first jaw and the second jaw join to close the loop.