Non-Metallic Fluid Coupling With Electrical Bonding and Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Metallic coupling assemblies in aerospace fluid systems are heavy, prone to corrosion, and compromise lightning protection, while existing non-metallic solutions lack adaptability and interchangeability with existing metallic designs.
Innovation Solution
Non-metallic coupling assemblies made from materials like PEEK and glass fiber with integrated latch and hinge mechanisms, allowing for up to 70% weight savings and seamless replacement in existing metallic systems, incorporating O-rings and sealing sleeves for secure fluid and electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metallic coupling assemblies are used, then strength and structural integrity are improved, but weight increases and corrosion resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly uses composite materials including PEEK (polyether ether ketone) and glass fiber reinforced polymers to achieve high strength-to-weight ratio. The retainer halves are made from PEEK which provides structural integrity while being significantly lighter than metallic alternatives, and glass fiber reinforcement enhances the mechanical properties of the polymer components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameters from metallic to polymeric composites, specifically using PEEK and glass fiber reinforced materials. This parameter change maintains structural integrity through material selection while dramatically reducing weight by up to 70% compared to traditional metallic coupling assemblies.
2Strength
If metallic coupling assemblies are used, then structural strength is improved, but corrosion resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly uses composite materials including PEEK (polyether ether ketone) and glass fiber reinforced polymers to achieve high strength-to-weight ratio. The retainer halves are made from PEEK which provides structural integrity while being significantly lighter than metallic alternatives, and glass fiber reinforcement enhances the mechanical properties of the polymer components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameters from metallic to polymeric composites, specifically using PEEK and glass fiber reinforced materials. This parameter change maintains structural integrity through material selection while dramatically reducing weight by up to 70% compared to traditional metallic coupling assemblies.
3Reliability
If metallic coupling assemblies are used, then electrical conductivity is improved, but lightning protection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces an intermediary conductive element (such as a conductive grommet or bonding wire) that bridges the electrical connection between tubes while the non-conductive coupling body provides lightning protection. This intermediary maintains electrical conductivity for signal or power transmission while the polymeric coupling material itself acts as an insulator against lightning strikes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameters from metallic to polymeric composites, specifically using PEEK and glass fiber reinforced materials. This parameter change maintains structural integrity through material selection while dramatically reducing weight by up to 70% compared to traditional metallic coupling assemblies.
4Weight of moving object
If non-metallic materials are used, then weight is reduced and corrosion resistance is improved, but interchangeability with existing metallic systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is designed with universal interface features that allow it to work with both metallic and non-metallic tube materials. The retainer halves, sealing sleeve, and ferrule adapters are configured with standardized dimensions and sealing surfaces that provide interchangeability with existing metallic systems while enabling the use of lightweight non-metallic materials throughout the assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly uses composite materials including PEEK (polyether ether ketone) and glass fiber reinforced polymers to achieve high strength-to-weight ratio. The retainer halves are made from PEEK which provides structural integrity while being significantly lighter than metallic alternatives, and glass fiber reinforcement enhances the mechanical properties of the polymer components.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-metallic fluid coupling is disclosed with electrical current transferring elements incorporated therein. The coupling is formed of two C-shaped halves of non-metal, non-conducting material, where each halve includes integral hinges and latches, or hinges and latches made of a common material with the C-shaped halves. A non-metallic, substantially rigid sealing sleeve can be incorporated into the coupling to seal the coupling while maintaining the strength of the coupling.