Curved Slat Connecting Rod for Adjustable Length Without Threads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current connecting rods, especially those in the aeronautical industry, face challenges with weight, cost, and production complexity due to their conventional threaded structures, which are expensive and time-consuming to produce, particularly when made of composite materials.
Innovation Solution
The design features two elastically flexible slats arranged symmetrically with transverse spacer means and adjustable securing mechanisms that allow for length variation by modifying the curve of the slats, using materials like composite materials, metal, or polymers, and incorporating deformable components for length adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional threaded structures are used for adjustable length connecting rods, then length adjustment capability is achieved, but weight and production cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting rod is divided into multiple modular segments (first connecting rod portion, second connecting rod portion, and intermediate portion) that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows for optimized material selection and manufacturing processes for each segment, reducing overall weight while maintaining adjustability through the modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials, particularly carbon fiber reinforced polymers, in the connecting rod structure to achieve high strength-to-weight ratio. The intermediate portion and connecting portions utilize composite material construction that provides structural integrity while significantly reducing weight compared to conventional metal threaded structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional threaded structures are used for adjustable length connecting rods, then length adjustment capability is achieved, but production time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the connecting rod into standardized modular portions, the patent enables parallel manufacturing processes and pre-fabrication of components. The intermediate portion with standardized coupling interfaces can be manufactured independently and assembled with different end portions, significantly reducing production time and tooling costs compared to custom-threaded structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate portion is designed with universal coupling interfaces that can connect to various end portions, creating a multi-functional module that serves multiple length adjustment configurations. This universal design reduces the number of unique parts that need to be manufactured, thereby reducing production complexity and cost.
3Weight of moving object
If composite materials are used for connecting rods, then weight is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases due to transition from tubular to rectangular cross-section
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting rod is divided into segments with different cross-sectional requirements. The intermediate portion maintains a tubular cross-section that is easier to manufacture with composite materials, while the end portions can have rectangular cross-sections where needed. This segmentation allows each segment to be optimized for its specific functional requirements without requiring the entire structure to accommodate the most complex geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the connecting rod have different local geometries optimized for their specific functions. The intermediate portion uses a tubular cross-section for ease of composite manufacturing and structural efficiency, while the end portions adopt rectangular cross-sections for interface compatibility. This local quality approach allows composite material manufacturing benefits to be preserved in the majority of the structure while meeting interface requirements where needed.
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 solution provides a cost-effective and lightweight alternative with adjustable length configurations, maintaining mechanical consistency and simplicity in production, while reducing weight and production costs, thus optimizing economic and operational impacts on aircraft.
Implementation Method 1
two elastically flexible slats which are curved and arranged symmetrically with respect to a longitudinal axis of the connecting rod
Data Source
AI summary
A connecting rod includes two elastically flexible slats which are curved and arranged symmetrically relative to a longitudinal axis of the connecting rod. The slats have end zones running parallel to the axis, as well as transverse spacers placed between the slats and fasteners for securing the slats to each other and to the transverse spacers. The fasteners include adapters for adjusting the curve of the slats with a view to varying the axial length of the connecting rod.