Polygonal Isolation Coupler for Shock Isolation Under Space Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
In the aerospace industry, there is a need to attenuate mechanical vibrations and shocks transmitted from supporting structures to functional equipment without compromising strength or increasing weight, as existing methods are limited by space and weight constraints.
Innovation Solution
A polygonal-shaped isolation coupler system comprising two brackets with isolators that separate their sides, allowing for adjustable load attenuation between the brackets, providing a flexible and effective means to couple functional elements to support structures while minimizing the transfer of mechanical shocks and vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If existing shock attenuation methods are used, then mechanical vibrations and shocks are attenuated, but weight increases and space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The isolation coupler divides the shock attenuation function into multiple isolators distributed around the polygonal bracket, with each isolator handling a portion of the load. This segmentation allows effective vibration attenuation without requiring a single heavy attenuation device.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolators serve as intermediary elements between the first bracket (attached to support structure) and the second bracket (attached to functional equipment). These intermediaries attenuate mechanical vibrations and shocks while transmitting necessary loads, resolving the contradiction between protection and weight.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If existing shock attenuation methods are used, then mechanical vibrations and shocks are attenuated, but available space is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The isolators are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration around the polygonal bracket, utilizing vertical and radial spaces rather than consuming horizontal mounting area. This dimensional arrangement provides effective shock attenuation while preserving valuable space in the constrained environment.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If isolation components are added to attenuate loads, then vibration isolation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The isolators are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: attenuating vertical loads, damping vibrations, and accommodating lateral movements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby improving vibration isolation without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolation coupler merges the mounting bracket and isolation functionality into a single integrated assembly. The polygonal bracket structure combines structural support with isolator mounting points, eliminating the need for separate mounting hardware and reducing overall device 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 system effectively attenuates loads by up to 20 dB over a wide frequency spectrum, offering a high degree of vibration and shock isolation, thus protecting functional equipment from damage caused by mechanical vibrations and shocks.
Implementation Method 1
The isolators separate each one of the first-bracket sides from a corresponding one of the second-bracket sides to attenuate a load transferred from the first bracket to the second bracket
Implementation Method 2
attenuate mechanical vibrations and shocks transmitted from supporting structures to functional equipment
Data Source
AI summary
An isolation coupler for coupling a functional element to a support structure includes a first bracket. The first bracket includes a number of first-bracket sides. The number of first-bracket sides forms a closed polygonal shape, in plan view. The isolation coupler further includes a number of isolators coupled to each one of the first-bracket sides. The isolation coupler also includes a second bracket. The second bracket includes a number of second-bracket sides. The second bracket sides are coupled to the isolators. The number of second-bracket sides is equal to the number of first-bracket sides and forms the closed polygonal shape, in plan view. The isolators separate each one of the first-bracket sides from a corresponding one of the second-bracket sides to attenuate a load transferred from the first bracket to the second bracket.