Overmoulded Conductive Pipe Joint for Aircraft Fuel Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
In aircraft systems, there is a challenge in preventing fuel leaks and the creation of electric arcs in zones with different fluid conduits, particularly in areas with sensitive fluid transit, where existing solutions fail to provide a stable and long-lasting sealing and electrical discharge solution.
Innovation Solution
An assembly comprising two pipe lengths connected by an overmoulded interface joint that acts as both a sealant and an electrical conductor, ensuring positional stability and preventing deformation over time, thereby preventing fluid leaks and electrical discharges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a joint is used to connect two pipe lengths, then sealing between the pipes is achieved, but the joint may move or deform over time causing degradation of sealing function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the joint with one of the pipe lengths by overmoulding, merging two previously separate components into a single integrated assembly. This eliminates the relative movement between joint and pipe while maintaining the sealing function through the integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint is overmoulded onto the pipe length during the manufacturing process before assembly, pre-establishing the connection and eliminating potential movement or deformation that could occur with separate components assembled later.
2Reliability
If a joint is used to connect two pipe lengths, then sealing between the pipes is achieved, but electrical arcs may still occur between the pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The joint is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides sealing between the pipe lengths and also serves as an electrical conductor to discharge static electricity, preventing electrical arcs. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by addressing both sealing and electrical discharge requirements with a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint is made from a composite material that combines sealing properties with electrical conductivity, allowing it to simultaneously prevent fluid leakage and discharge electrical charges, thereby eliminating electrical arcs while maintaining the sealing function.
3Reliability
If separate sealing and electrical discharge components are used, then both functions can be achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing function and electrical discharge function into a single joint component, eliminating the need for separate sealing elements and electrical discharge devices. This reduces device complexity while maintaining both functions through the multi-functional joint design.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint is designed as a universal component that simultaneously provides sealing and electrical conductivity, replacing what would traditionally require multiple specialized components. This multi-functionality directly reduces the number of parts and simplifies the overall assembly.
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 assembly effectively prevents fuel leaks and electrical arcs, enhancing safety and reliability while reducing mass and allowing for a fuel supply tube with adjustable resistance through varying carbon content.
Implementation Method 1
the joint, the first pipe length and the second pipe length are conductors of current, said joint being overmoulded in one of said lengths so as to be in electrical contact with said length
Implementation Method 2
the joint is plastic, loaded with carbon black
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly including a first pipe length and a second accommodating mechanical pipe length, said first length being assembled in said second length by means of an interface joint, that is a conductor of electric current. As it is assumed that said first length and said second length are also conductors of electric current, the joint thus provides good sealing between the first pipe length and the second pipe length in order to prevent leakages of fluid and to prevent the formation of inopportune electric arcs due, for example, to static electricity.