Multi-directional Elastomeric Damper for Load Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load-carrying structures, such as bridges and helicopter components, face challenges in managing multi-directional forces and moments efficiently, as current dampers and joints either restrict movement too much or compromise on load capacity and structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A multi-directional joint assembly with a damper comprising alternating elastomeric and rigid layers, which absorbs and reduces forces and moments by allowing controlled deflection, maintaining relative position and movement within desired tolerances while minimizing structural complexity and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dampers or joints are used to allow movement in certain directions, then controlled deflection is achieved, but the ability to handle multi-directional forces and moments is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The damper is segmented into multiple elastomeric layers and rigid layers stacked alternately. Each layer has a specific function: elastomeric layers provide flexibility and energy absorption in multiple directions, while rigid layers provide structural support and constraint. This segmentation allows the damper to handle multi-directional forces without requiring a complex assembly of multiple dampers or joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The damper uses a composite structure combining elastomeric material and rigid material in alternating layers. This composite design leverages the complementary properties of both materials: the elastomeric material provides multi-directional flexibility and energy absorption, while the rigid material provides structural integrity and load-bearing capacity. The composite structure enables the single damper to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require multiple components.
2Strength
If more rigid layers are added to increase load capacity, then force reduction is improved, but the ability to absorb energy from bending and torsional forces decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The damper segments the load-bearing function and energy-absorption function into different layers. Rigid layers are positioned to handle compressive and tensile loads, while elastomeric layers are positioned to absorb energy from bending and torsional forces through deformation. This functional segmentation allows both high load capacity and effective energy absorption within a single integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The composite alternating layer structure creates a synergistic effect where rigid layers provide the necessary load capacity while elastomeric layers provide energy absorption. The interaction between the two materials allows the structure to maintain strength under axial loads while simultaneously dissipating energy from lateral and rotational forces through the flexible layers' deformation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If additional support structures are added to maintain structural integrity, then stability is improved, but weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The damper merges the functions of movement control, load bearing, and energy absorption into a single integrated component. The alternating elastomeric and rigid layers work together to provide all necessary structural functions, eliminating the need for separate support structures, brackets, or additional joints. This consolidation maintains structural integrity while minimizing weight and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single damper structure performs multiple functions simultaneously: it allows controlled movement in specific directions, absorbs energy from multi-directional forces including bending and torsion, and maintains structural integrity under various load conditions. This multi-functionality replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components, reducing overall system weight and complexity.
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 solution effectively reduces loads and absorbs energy from bending and torsional forces, allowing for stable movement in multiple directions while maintaining structural integrity, reducing the need for additional support structures and minimizing weight and complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The elastomeric layers are deformed. The damper absorbs energy from the deformed elastomeric layers
Implementation Method 2
The rigid layers may be placed between elastomeric layers such that the rigid layers slide with resistance relative to each other
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for reducing a force. An apparatus comprises a multi-directional joint assembly and a damper associated with the multi-directional joint assembly. The multi-directional joint assembly has a first end and a second end. The first end and the second end move relative to each other. The damper is comprised of a number of elastomeric layers and a number of rigid layers interspersed with each other reducing at least one of a force and a moment.