Composite Laminate Joint Geometry for Self-Locking Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for joining composite materials, such as fiber-reinforced polymer-matrix composites, face challenges in efficient load transfer due to weak interlaminar and transverse strength properties, and often require adhesives or fasteners that do not fully utilize the high-strength reinforcing fibers.
Innovation Solution
A joint system comprising a partial trapezoidal component and a triangular component, which are designed to be coupled without adhesives or fasteners, allowing for reliable load transfer and structural integrity by forming a self-locking connection with composite components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If through-thickness fasteners are used for joining laminated composites, then the joining process is simplified, but local damage risks increase due to weak interlaminar and transverse strength properties
Solution Approach 1:
The joint system divides the composite component into segments by introducing a split (gap) in the laminate structure. This segmentation allows insertion of triangular components that lock into the split, enabling joining without through-thickness fasteners that would cause local damage. The split acts as a controlled discontinuity that accommodates the joining mechanism while preserving the integrity of the laminate layers.
Solution Approach 2:
Triangular components serve as intermediary elements that bridge the gap between composite components. These triangular inserts are placed within the split and locked by the trapezoidal component, mediating the load transfer between composite parts without requiring direct fastener penetration through the laminate, thus avoiding local damage while achieving reliable joining.
2Ease of operation
If adhesive-based joints are used, then joining convenience is improved, but sensitivity to degradation and aging increases
Solution Approach 1:
The joint system employs a self-locking mechanism where the trapezoidal component automatically secures the triangular components within the split through its geometric configuration. This self-service joining method eliminates the need for adhesives that require curing time and are sensitive to environmental conditions, providing immediate and reliable mechanical interlocking that is not subject to degradation from aging or temperature variations.
3Strength
If conventional joining methods are used, then structural connection is achieved, but load transfer efficiency is reduced due to missed advantage of fiber high-strength properties
Solution Approach 1:
The joint system utilizes a composite approach combining metallic or composite trapezoidal components with triangular inserts that match the material properties of the joined composite parts. This composite joining system is designed to complement and enhance the fiber-reinforced composite structure, enabling efficient load transfer that utilizes the high-strength properties of the reinforcing fibers by maintaining continuous fiber paths and avoiding disruption of the composite architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A joint for use with a composite laminated component is disclosed herein. The joint includes a component including a partial U-shaped trapezoidal cavity and a triangular component. The partial trapezoidal component includes a base extending in a first direction, a first side extending away from the base at a first angle from the first direction, a second side extending away from the base at a second angle from the first direction and toward the first side, and an opening defined by the first side and the second side. The triangular component is coupled to the base and extending orthogonally away from the base in a second direction and toward the opening.