Flexible Connection Joint for Inflatable Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inflatable structure connection joints are prone to leakage and peeling mode failures, especially at overlapping joints, and require labor-intensive adhesive application with long curing times, leading to manufacturing inefficiencies and human error.
Innovation Solution
A flexible connection member with a Y-shaped or T-shaped configuration, formed by thermobonding flexible strip portions, redirects tensile forces into shear forces between legs and walls, enhancing joint integrity and allowing for automated assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If adhesive bonding is used to join inflatable members together, then the joint can be formed, but the joint is prone to leakage and peeling mode failure
Solution Approach 1:
The connection joint is divided into multiple discrete components: a first connection element with first and second legs, a second connection element with third and fourth legs, and a sealing element. Each component performs a specific function (mechanical attachment, reinforcement, or sealing), and they are assembled together to form the complete joint. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific purpose and enables automated assembly through precise positioning features.
2Ease of manufacture
If adhesive bonding is used to join panels together, then the panels can be connected, but the curing process requires at least four hours and is labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the chemical bonding process (adhesive curing) with a mechanical assembly system. The connection elements feature pre-formed geometric shapes with positioning features such as tabs, slots, and interlocking structures that enable precise alignment and secure attachment through mechanical means alone. This eliminates the need for adhesive application and lengthy curing processes, allowing for rapid automated assembly and significantly improving manufacturing productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If overlapping joints are used in inflatable structures, then the structure can be assembled, but leakage occurs at the joint ends
Solution Approach 1:
A sealing element is introduced as an intermediary component between the connection elements and the inflatable members. This sealing element fills the gaps and potential leakage paths at the joint ends, creating a barrier that prevents water and air infiltration. The sealing element works in conjunction with the mechanical connection elements to provide both structural attachment and leakage prevention, resolving the contradiction between assembly capability and leakage resistance.
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 flexible connection member significantly increases the strength of the joint, resisting separation under higher pressures and eliminating leakage issues, while enabling continuous, cost-effective manufacturing with reduced human error.
Implementation Method 1
formed by thermobonding flexible strip portions
Data Source
AI summary
A flexible connection joint for inflatable structures such as life rafts, evacuation slides, and the like, includes a flexible connection member to join walls of the inflatable structure together. The flexible connection member includes first and second strip portions that are bonded together at one end to from three legs that can be joined to two or three walls of the structure or to other connecting elements or strips. In this manner, a tensile force acting on at least one of the walls of the structure causes generation of shear forces between the flexible legs and walls to thereby resist their separation.